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Master of Science in Elementary Education
The course of study consists of 35-36 semester hours of course credit with an applied-action research or thesis requirement. The program is designed to encompass three areas: basic courses in education (these courses provide a background in fundamental educational theory), specific requirements in an area of emphasis (15 hours minimum) and a research component. The research component includes either an action research project or thesis. Students may choose courses according to individual needs, teaching level and professional interests. Students select one of the following areas of emphasis within the program:
Early Childhood
This area provides coursework and research opportunities for teachers pursuing advanced study in working with children from birth to 8 years of age. Graduate students may choose special courses in assessment; working with families; brain development; infant, toddler and preschool teaching; K-3 environments; and children with special needs.
Elementary Curriculum
This area of emphasis provides coursework and research opportunities for teachers pursuing advanced study in elementary education. It includes courses in various disciplines including language arts, science, social studies, and math.
Middle Level
This area meets the six hours established by the state of Illinois for an endorsement in middle level education. In addition, three courses specifically dedicated to teaching middle-level students and additional electives complete the area of emphasis.
Reading
Specific courses in reading may be selected that will lead to the Reading Teacher Endorsement in Illinois, including a graduate level practicum. Also addressed are foundations of reading, content area reading, assessment and diagnosis of reading problems, developmental reading methods and remedial reading instruction.
Graduate Certificate in Reading Instruction
Educators who wish to advance their knowledge and performance in teaching reading in order to serve as Title I Reading teachers or Reading/Literacy Coaches and hold valid teaching certificates (i.e., preschool to grade 12) may choose to complete the Graduate Certificate in Reading Instruction. The courses required within the M.S. Ed. in Elementary Education Reading Area of Emphasis and the Certificate in Reading Instruction have been aligned with the Reading Teacher Standards as outlined by the State of Illinois. Therefore, these graduate courses in reading may be applied toward the requirements for the Reading Teacher Endorsement in Illinois.
Graduate Certificate in Reading Instruction (pdf)
Reading Teacher Endorsement
Reading teachers are responsible for teaching reading to students and providing technical assistance or professional development. The endorsement can be obtained on an early childhood, elementary, secondary or special certificate. The general requirements include passing the reading teacher content area test and completing a minimum of 24 semester hours in reading, including a practicum, in the following six areas:
- Foundations of reading
- Content-area reading
- Assessment and diagnosis of reading problems
- Developmental and remedial reading instruction and support
- Developmental and remedial materials and resources
- Literature appropriate to students across all grade levels
Reading Teacher Endorsement courses at EIU (pdf)
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification
Post-baccalaureate students seeking a teaching certificate through any of EIU's state approved certification programs must meet the full intent of the respective programs. All previous course work, either graduate or undergraduate, will be evaluated in terms of current requirements. This will include general education, a major, and the professional education requirements. To initiate the transcript evaluation process, contact Bonnie Wilson in the College of Education and Professional Studies.
Bonnie Wilson
Email: bkwilson@eiu.edu
Phone: 217-581-2524
