加州州立大学北岭分校

The M.A. degree program builds on the competencies developed in the Multiple Subject Credential program and is designed to provide candidates with advanced professional preparation in education for (1) assuming differentiated careers in school districts, professional organizations and the community; and (2) continuing into a doctoral program. Total units required for an M.A. degree in the concentrations Curriculum and Instruction or Language and Literacy is 30 to 33 units.

Elementary Education Option

Curriculum and Instruction: For teachers interested in honing their skills to teach all curricular areas, this concentration is a strong choice. The integration of visual and performing arts into the traditional subject matter disciplines such as language arts, social studies, science and mathematics is unique to this concentration. In addition, the option offers a STEM-focused cohort that integrates content and experiences in collaboration with local and national scientific centers. Through a focus on the various state curriculum frameworks and standards, teachers come to understand the need for all students to be active learners engaged in a rich, meaning-centered curriculum.

Language and Literacy: This concentration places emphasis on developing a comprehensive and balanced approach to literacy instruction and assessment. Teaching students to be strategic readers, writers and evaluators of their own literacy progress is emphasized. Through the Literacy Center on campus, CSUN students work in two practical settings to assess and assist children who are experiencing difficulty in developing literacy skills.

Multicultural/Multilingual: The Multicultural concentration in Elementary Education places emphasis on developing a comprehensive and balanced approach to teaching culturally diverse students in K-6 settings. This option provides an overview of multicultural education, which includes theories and practices in culturally relevant pedagogy, language acquisition, family and community assets, and multicultural arts education.

Student Learning Outcomes

M.A. candidates will develop as professional educators who demonstrate: Reflective practice by examining their pedagogical content knowledge and skills to improve diverse students’ learning needs; Theoretical understanding by reading, synthesizing and evaluating educational theory and research, and applying research findings to their practice in diverse classroom settings; Research skills by designing and conducting research and presenting their findings at a professional level in oral and written forms; Educational awareness by knowing current educational issues and how they impact schools; Leadership by influencing policy and practice in educational communities through advocacy and example.