Elementary Education

Initial Certification

Candidates interested in Elementary Education have a number of options. First, candidates seeking initial certification to teach in elementary schools may study at either the masters or sixth-year level. A thirty-three credit course of study followed by a twelve week student teaching experience leads to the Masters or Sixth year degree and to recommendation for a Connecticut initial educator certificate. Candidates may elect to pursue their degree by engaging an internship. Otherwise, candidates may study on a part time schedule and progress at their own rate toward the degree and eventual certification. Interns are full-time students and pay no tuition for the thirty-three credit degree.

Advanced Study

Certified elementary teachers are often interested in developing a career path that includes study at the advanced level. The Education Division at the University of Bridgeport offers elementary educators a number of interesting options including:

• Remedial Reading and Remedial Language Arts. This program leads to an initial educator certificate in Remedial Reading and Remedial Language Arts, grades 1-12.

• Reading and Language Arts Consultant. This sixth-year degree program prepares students for the roles of a curriculum and instructional leader.

• Music Education. Musically inclined students may enroll in a graduate level music education program leading to certification as a music teacher in grades K-12.

• Educational Leadership. Elementary teachers interested in differentiated leadership and administrative positions at the elementary level will elect this program.

• Education: ModMAP. This unique program is designed for certified teachers interested in a professional development, degree-awarding program which enhances their work at the classroom level. Working with an advisor, students design a course of study at the masters or sixth-year level that allows them to pursue an area of their own interest.

• Technology. Students who have a strong interest in instructional and administrative uses of technology may develop a concentration in technology at the masters or sixth-year level. A Master of Science in Instructional Technology (MSIT) program is currently being reviewed by the State of Connecticut and, once authorized we plan to offer the program primarily on line.

• Doctor of Education. The doctoral program appeals to experienced elementary educators who want to make a lasting impact on the profession. The program is designed to improve the effectiveness of experienced professionals by integrating the study and practice of sound educational principles.