Department of Curriculum
& Teaching
The Doctoral Program
Master's and CAGS Studies
Practicum/Field Experience
EDUCATIONAL MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY
ENGLISH & LANGUAGE ARTS EDUCATION
HISTORY & SOCIAL SCIENCE EDUCATION
LATIN & CLASSICAL STUDIES EDUCATION
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & COACHING
Department Chair
Stephan Ellenwood
617-353-3238
E-mail:
ellenwoo@bu.edu
Curriculum planning and teaching are the fundamental ingredients of good schools at all grade levels. The Department of Curriculum & Teaching offers a wide variety of programs that respond to the increasing complexity of contemporary education. All programs prepare educators for leadership duties in instructional and supervisory positions. Each program emphasizes planning and designing instruction, creating comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum, broadening and deepening the knowledge base of one’s teaching, adapting instruction for special-needs students, and evaluating the results of teaching. Our goal is to graduate educators who are knowledgeable and innovative in a demanding and rewarding profession.
In the doctoral programs students come to understand complex curriculum and teaching issues at all levels, from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. In addition, doctoral students concentrate directly on a specific academic area or age group. Programs offer licensure, where applicable. The doctoral program allows students to design a personal plan of study in elective courses directly addressing their professional interests. Students may take advantage of the hundreds of courses offered by the seventeen schools and colleges of Boston University, including programs in arts and sciences, engineering, medicine, public health, management, social work, theology, arts, communication, and law. This rich array of resources enables each student to prepare a focused and intensive individual study program which complements their interdisciplinary and core studies.
The Doctoral Program
Doctoral study in the Department of Curriculum & Teaching encourages deeper understanding of four areas that are essential to the professional leadership expected of our graduates. The first is an interdisciplinary study providing students a firm foundation in their individual field. The second is an interprofessional experience that enables students to understand the importance of defining their responsibilities broadly and expanding education beyond classrooms and their own specializations. Third, students must develop research skills so that, as educators, they can produce, evaluate, and apply significant professional research. Fourth, students develop the knowledge base and professional talents essential to forming, designing, implementing, and evaluating specific educational programs and reforms.
Beyond these broad goals, doctoral students pursue study in one of many programs available in this department. All doctoral students must complete study in four areas: basic schoolwide and departmental core courses, educational research courses, academic cognate courses, and specialized courses in one professional education area. All candidates must successfully complete comprehensive examinations and a research dissertation in their professional specialization.
Master’s and CAGS Studies
Students may complete a program in curriculum and teaching at the EdM or CAGS level without designating a specific content area. Graduate programs for the MAT, EdM, MMT, and CAGS are available in the Department of Curriculum & Teaching as indicated at the beginning of each program description. The EdM program requires a minimum of 36 credits, the MAT a minimum of 46 credits, and the CAGS program a minimum of 32 credits. (English Education within the MAT requires 48 credits.) Students at these levels are also eligible to enroll in many courses offered throughout Boston University, as described under the doctoral program.
Practicum/Field Experience
Boston University enjoys long-standing relationships with many Boston-area urban and suburban school systems that offer our students rewarding field experiences under the guidance of expert teachers and faculty. Students who are pursuing their graduate studies on a part-time basis must arrange their time to be able to complete a practicum on a full-time basis if it is required in the student’s program. The School of Education reserves the right to determine whether a student is fully prepared to enter a student-teaching practicum. This includes passing the SED Literacy Test prior to admission to the practicum.
CURRICULUM & TEACHING
Stephan Ellenwood
617-353-3238
E-mail: ellenwoo@bu.edu
This program is designed for students who seek advanced interdisciplinary study in education. Teachers who already hold an initial license often select this program to develop an EdM or a CAGS program that includes both advanced liberal arts and advanced professional education study. With their advisors, courses are selected either to deepen one aspect of the student’s profession or to provide a way of expanding his or her teaching into a new area. Some select this program because they want to study schools and the profession of teaching without pursuing a license for teaching. The EdM program requires one research course, three courses in the Department of Curriculum & Teaching, and five courses selected with the consent of the advisor.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Jane Lannak
617-353-7258
E-mail: jlannak@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
This program is designed for students who wish to prepare for a variety of professional assignments related to the education of the young child (three to eight years). Students concentrate on the preschool and young children in preschools and school classrooms.
At the graduate level, persons entering the EdM and CAGS programs prepare for teaching and leadership responsibilities in a variety of early education environments. The doctoral specialization serves students who wish to prepare for preschool teacher education and research. The program of study can meet individual needs and goals, but all students are required to develop proficiency in child development research and theory; language acquisition; research methodology; practices in early childhood education; and curriculum theory, evaluation, and development.
At the undergraduate level, students acquire a solid foundation in the liberal arts. Professional education coursework focuses on research and theories in child growth and development and their implications for program development and instruction; programs, practices, and issues in early childhood education; skills related to instructional communication and the design of educational environments; content and methodology related to instructing the young child in such areas as mathematics, science, the language arts, social studies, music, and the arts; and applying and integrating knowledge and skills through fieldwork and the development of curriculum and learning materials.
SED houses an Early Childhood facility that includes a preschool, a curriculum design center, and a research-observation room. The innovative preschool curriculum addresses the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and creative development of children through in-depth inquiry units. Undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to observe and assist master teachers as they plan curriculum, develop materials, and teach a diverse group of young children. Resources for classroom and materials design are housed in the curriculum design lab, available to early childhood students placed in public school classrooms and students placed in the SED preschool. An observation room is equipped with extensive videorecording systems to support students and faculty research.
Individuals interested in undergraduate work may contact Admissions, Boston University, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.
EDUCATIONAL MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY
David Whittier
617-353-3181
E-mail: whittier@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificates Offered
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology (16 credits)
EdM, CAGS in Educational Media & Technology
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching
Program Overview
The program in Educational Media & Technology prepares graduates for professional careers through a carefully blended curriculum of core courses, electives, and field experiences. Graduates develop competencies in analyzing needs, designing and developing technology-based resources that support diverse learning experiences, and evaluating the effectiveness of learning that is fostered through robust, technology-infused teaching and learning.
We embrace new technologies while simultaneously building on historical evidence that makes clear the need for teachers, trainers, and professors to use technology in support of human interactive processes of learning. Through thinking holistically about learning experiences that include technology-based resources, we leverage technology to support, enhance, and improve education consistent with what history and research tell us about effectiveness.
Our faculty prepare graduates to lead technology programs in diverse environments worldwide, and our alumni in leadership and teaching positions locally and globally testify to our success in preparing our students for careers that reflect our commitment to high-quality educational leadership and in using technology to enhance and improve education and training. Through thoughtful pedagogy and expert content knowledge, and through taking guidance from research on effectiveness, we excel in preparing graduates who understand the complexities of supporting and improving education and training with technology.
In core courses, students learn research and history of the field, relevant theories, instructional design, evaluation of learning experiences that include technology-based resources, and advanced technology skills they can apply to the goals and objectives of educators and learning organizations. In the elective courses, students have the option of specializing in the use of technology in one of three general areas:
- Pre-K–12 schools—where graduates find careers as instructional technology specialists, technology directors, and as teachers who want to improve their ability to teach with technology;
- Higher education—where graduates find careers as professors or work with professors and others designing, developing, and evaluating technology-based resources, and in administrative positions;
- Adult learning and training—where graduates find careers as instructional designers, training directors, workplace performance analysts, researchers, and educational technology specialists in medicine, public health, publishing, government, or across business and industry.
In all of the areas of specialization, graduates share professional roles as designers and developers of educational software, managers of the human and technology-based resources necessary to support education and training with technology, and as policy makers, advisors, and consultants to education, government, business and industry, and entrepreneurs.
Graduate students in the Educational Media & Technology program come to Boston University from a variety of different backgrounds and with a wide range of professional goals. Because virtually every field must employ the educational use of technology, we encourage students to apply what they are learning to their area of interest both in the program and in independent study, practica, and/or internships.
Opportunities for field-based experiences in internships and independent study in some of the most respected and diverse settings in the world round out our comprehensive program. Our extensive alumni network and the diverse opportunities for internships available at Boston University and in the Boston area provide world-class field experiences. Whether you want to work in schools, in small entrepreneurial companies, or in large institutions in education, medicine, public health, publishing, or the full range of business and industry, field experiences will help you gain knowledge and experience through affiliating with a professional community of practice.
The Master’s Program
Twenty-six credits of required courses comprise the core program and ten credits of elected courses allow for specialization. Six Educational Media & Technology courses and one research course make up the program’s core requirement. Master’s degree candidates focus on becoming multimedia designers, educational technologists or expert teachers using technology in schools, and instructional designers for the online environment.
The Doctoral Program
The doctorate in Curriculum & Teaching specializing in Educational Media & Technology is a highlight of our program. In completing coursework that meets schoolwide, departmental, research, and academic program requirements, doctoral students develop competencies at the intersection of curriculum, pedagogy, and technology and how they relate to educational theory, practice, and the psychology of learning. Through gaining both theoretical and practical knowledge, and through focusing on reading, designing, implementing, and writing research, doctoral candidates prepare for leadership in educational technology so needed in society today.
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) requires 32 credit hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree. Programs of study may be customized depending on the student’s prior coursework.
Public School Licensure in Instructional Technology
Graduates may earn Massachusetts licensure as an Instructional Technology Teacher through any of the EdM, CAGS, or doctoral programs. Licensure typically includes earning a master’s degree of 36 credits and 16 additional credits including 6 credits in Foundations of Education (ED 100 or ED 500), 8 credits of student teaching, and 2 credits in database development for education (EM 705). Teachers with another public school license may earn their instructional technology license by completing a limited set of specific subject matter courses. For licensing information, visit www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs.
Required Courses
SED ED 500 (6 cr) (Required prior to student-teaching)
SED EM 705 Advanced Internet for Educators (2 cr)
Student Teaching
(Select two of three, 150-hour Half Practica totaling 300 hours):
SED EM 760 Pre-K–6, five-week, min. 150-hour practicum (4 cr)
SED EM 770 5–8, five-week, min. 150-hour practicum (4 cr)
SED EM 780 8–12, five week, min. 150-hour practicum (4 cr)
Degrees Offered
EdM in Educational Media & Technology (36 credits)CAGS in Educational Media & Technology (32 credits beyond master’s degree)
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology (16 credits online and/or on-campus)
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching, specializing in Educational Media & Technology (60 credits beyond master’s degree)
EdM Required Courses
(4 cr unless otherwise specified)
SED EM 550 Introduction to Educational Media & Technology
SED EM 570 Introduction to Interactive Software Development (2 cr)
SED EM 610 Internet and WWW for Educators or
SED EM 680 Distance Education Research and Design
SED EM 701 Instructional Design
SED EM 713 Digital Video Production for Education and Training
SED RS 600 Perspectives on Inquiry
SED EM 690 Designing Educational Multimedia (Prereqs: SED EM 570, 701, and 713; best taken in conjunction with EM 670.) or
SED EM 731 Developing E-Learning Courseware
EdM Electives Electives may also be drawn from Curriculum & Teaching, computer-assisted language learning, and other courses.
SED EM 523 Children’s Literature (4 cr)
SED EM 560 Technology and Curriculum Integration (summers only) (4 cr)
SED EM 565 Technology Operations and Management (4 cr)
SED EM 585 Using Web 2.0 in Teaching and Learning (4 cr)
SED EM 590 Software for Curriculum (4 cr)
SED EM 670 Advanced Interactive Software Development (2 cr)
SED EM 680 Distance Education Research and Design (4 cr)
SED EM 705 Advanced Internet for Educators (2 cr)
SED EM 750 Research on Computer-Based Instruction (4 cr)
Internships and Independent Study
(credits vary)
SED CT 900 G1 Independent Study
SED EM 810 Practicum in Instructional Technology
SED EM 812 Internship in Educational Media
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology
The Certificate in Instructional Technology (CIT) is a 16-credit program that provides introductory instruction in supporting teaching, learning, and training with technology. Students focus on evaluating, designing, and utilizing technology-based resources that support education and training across a wide spectrum of learning environments.
The CIT is comprised of four 4-credit courses that may be completed on-campus or online, in our advanced online format. Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree in good standing. Courses include:
SED EM 590 Software for Curriculum
SED EM 610 Internet and WWW for Educators
SED EM 680 Distance Education Research and Design
SED EM 701 Instructional Design
Doctoral Degree Requirements (EdD)
- 60 credits beyond a master’s degree (relevant coursework for a second master’s degree or a CAGS may count toward the doctoral requirement)
- Two consecutive semesters of full-time residency
- Comprehensive examinations in the Department of Curriculum & Teaching and the Program in Educational Media & Technology
- Dissertation
For more information, contact Professor David Whittier by phone at 617-353-3181 or e-mail at whittier@bu.edu.
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Carol Jenkins
617-353-7103
E-mail: elemed@bu.edu
Degrees Offered
BS, EdM in Elementary Education
The Elementary Education Program prepares teachers for the joys and challenges of working with children from diverse backgrounds in grades 1–6. Candidates bring to bear their strong liberal arts preparation courses that explore the research-based pedagogy specific to the subject matter of the elementary curriculum and fieldwork that takes place in both urban and suburban classrooms.
The graduate program is designed for a candidate with a liberal arts or professional undergraduate degree who seeks licensure as an elementary education teacher. This licensure program includes prepracticum field experiences, foundations in education, curriculum courses, as well as a full semester of student-teaching. Candidates who hold an initial license may complete the requirements for professional licensure as an elementary education teacher.
Teachers already licensed at the elementary level may pursue the EdM program featuring a sequence in curriculum development, graduate liberal arts courses, and elective courses in such areas as special education and teaching English as a second language (ESL).
The undergraduate program offers students a liberal arts background with a concentration in a field of study appropriate to childhood education. Students interested in undergraduate work should contact Admissions, Boston University, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.
ENGLISH & LANGUAGE ARTS EDUCATION
Scott Seider
617-353-3223
E-mail: seider@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS, MAT in English Education
EdM, CAGS in English & Language Arts Education
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching
Liberal arts college graduates pursuing the MAT degree in preparation for middle or secondary school English teaching currently complete a program of graduate-level English courses, professional education courses, and student-teaching. This sequence enables students to earn an initial license for teaching middle or secondary school English and language arts. The professional courses emphasize diverse teaching methodologies and innovative curriculum reforms. Please refer to the MAT degree program description in the Master of Arts in Teaching section of this site.
EdM and CAGS programs in English & Language Arts Education provide advanced study for experienced English and language arts teachers who develop specific plans of study, in consultation with their academic advisors, for careers as supervisors, department chairs, or consultants. It is also possible for a student in an EdM or CAGS program to earn a professional license for classroom teaching. Programs of study emphasize recent research and successful practices in English and language arts education.
At the EdD level, experienced educators prepare for responsibilities as college and university professors, English/language arts researchers, consultants, and designers, writers, and producers of educational materials. In addition to departmental core courses, students complete courses in research, English, English education, language arts, linguistics, reading, and curriculum development. Students interested in the doctoral program should refer to the description of the EdD Program in the Curriculum & Teaching section of this site.
HEALTH EDUCATION
Stephan Ellenwood
Physical Education & Health
617-353-3238
E-mail: ellenwoo@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
EdM in Health Education, Licensure Track (Grades K–12)
EdM in Health Education, Non-Licensure Track
CAGS in Health Education, Non-Licensure Track
The central focus of the health program is the preparation of health educators for schools, community health centers, and corporate settings. The program stresses independent student work and innovative strategies of broad-spectrum intervention to benefit the individual and contribute to the well-being of society.
The Health Education Program offers two study sequences. First, the school health education sequence prepares students to teach health education at both the elementary and secondary school level. This sequence is a state-approved licensure program. Second, the community health education sequence addresses the broad range of services offered to communities through health agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation organizations, neighborhood centers, and community action programs. This nonlicensure sequence provides students with an academic background in nutrition, wellness, substance abuse, and exercise. It can include attention to comprehensive health care or persons with disabilities.
HISTORY/POLITICAL SCIENCE EDUCATION
Dan Davis
617-353-3314
E-mail: dfdavis@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS, MAT, EdM, CAGS in History & Social Science Education
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching
History/political science education extends beyond the traditional goal of preparing classroom history and social science teachers. Though the development of effective classroom teachers remains a high priority, history and social science education serves a wide range of specialized professional career goals, including classroom teachers, museum educators, developers of learning materials as well as history and political science curriculum specialists.
The History/Political Science Education Program at Boston University’s School of Education seeks to engage its students in pedagogical knowledge and skills in history and all of the social sciences for the 21st century and beyond. Our students are taught to think, learn, and act within a global context, both as educators and citizens. History and political science education students learn to understand and transmit those habits of mind that produce critical thinkers and cogent writers. Students learn to recognize and appreciate the complexity of past societies and construct and evaluate plans for future reforms. We emphasize a systematic approach to improve students’ historical thinking that includes teaching concepts rather than isolated facts, using comparative narratives and primary sources. Boston University’s world-renowned history, political science, and international relations departments provide the strong content to support the pedagogy learned.
The MAT program in history and social science education is designed for the student who has earned a liberal arts degree in history, government, political philosophy, or political science. Students who have other liberal arts degrees emphasizing social issues and social policy or interdisciplinary study may also apply. For purposes of licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, there are two licenses: 1) History and 2) Political Science/Political Philosophy. The professional education courses prepare students for teacher licensure. This degree program is described in detail under “Master of Arts in Teaching” in this section. Students pursuing the EdM degree or CAGS prepare for leadership and curriculum development positions in history and social science education.
At the doctoral level, students plan individual courses of study with an advisor pursuant to careers in curriculum development and publishing, college or university teaching, or supervisory/administrative responsibility in schools. For further information, please see the EdD Program in Curriculum & Teaching of this section.
For further information, contact Admissions, Boston University, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.
LATIN & CLASSICAL STUDIES EDUCATION
Stephan Ellenwood
617-353-3238
E-mail: ellenwoo@bu.edu
Fax: 617-353-2909
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS in Latin & Classical Studies Education
MAT in Latin & Classical Studies Education
The MAT program in Latin & Classical Studies Education prepares teachers of Latin for grades 5–12. The program reflects current theory and practice in teaching Latin. Students who have completed a strong liberal arts background with a major in Latin & Classical Studies Education are eligible to apply.
In the professional education courses, students develop effective communication skills, the ability to acquire and use knowledge from a variety of media and technologies, and leadership ability in curriculum development and instruction. There is close coordination of classwork in education, field experiences, and study of pedagogy. Student teaching provides first-hand experience with various responsibilities of schools and school personnel and allows students to put their knowledge into practice while refining pedagogical skills. The Latin & Classics courses emphasize communication, as well as grammar, culture, and literature.
Courses Open to Graduate Students
SED CL 520 Methods of Teaching Latin & Classical Studies, 5–12
SED CL 540 Student Teaching Practicum: Latin & Classical Studies, 5–12
SED CT 575 General Methods of Instruction: 5–12
MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING
Stephan Ellenwood
617-353-3238
E-mail: ellenwoo@bu.edu
For information:
617-353-3314
Degree Offered
MAT
The Master of Arts in Teaching Program is a 12-month program for full-time students seeking initial licensure for teaching at the middle, junior, or senior high school levels in accordance with requirements in the state of Massachusetts. Licensure reciprocity exists with many states, but students should investigate specifics in the state of anticipated residence. The program begins in June each year, though in some cases students may begin in September. It is also possible to complete the degree over a longer time period as a part-time student.
The Boston University MAT program offers a joint master’s degree that draws upon the rich resources of the entire University. Students complete four courses in their chosen field of study in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences and learn pedagogy and teaching methodology in the School of Education. Some of the departments in the Graduate School require that students successfully complete a master’s exam in order to meet the MAT requirements. Students seeking licensure in Latin and classical humanities may be obliged to complete a comprehensive examination in the Classical Studies department. Students seeking licensure as English teachers must complete an additional 2-credit course in reading. The professional education component consists of study in educational research, foundations of education, curriculum and methods of instruction, and student-teaching. This combination ensures strength in the field of study combined with a comprehensive set of teaching skills appropriate to adolescents. Teachers are expected to become innovators and leaders in education, looking beyond the classroom to the social, historic, psychological, economic, and cultural factors that influence the student’s school experience.
The Master of Arts in Teaching Program is designed for talented liberal arts graduates who have not completed any professional education courses. Students may be admitted to the MAT with undergraduate degrees in the following areas: English, Latin and classical humanities, history, French, Spanish, political science/government, political philosophy, sociology, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Students with undergraduate degrees in interdisciplinary programs such as American or environmental studies may be eligible for teacher licensure. Contact the MAT program coordinators for details. Students interested in teaching in the fine arts or music may contact the Boston University College of Fine Arts.
Required Courses
SED CT 575 General Methods of Instruction, 5–12
SED DS 502 Introduction to Adolescent Development
SED ED 500 Foundations of Educational Practices
SED ED 501 Foundations of Educational Practice Lab
SED SE 510 Special Education: Curriculum and Instruction
SED RS 600 Perspectives on Inquiry
One methods/curriculum course in the field of specialization
Student-Teaching Practicum (8 semester credits)
Four graduate courses (16 semester credits) in the academic field of specialization.
Please refer to the Courses section for a complete listing of courses in this program.
MATHEMATICS EDUCATION
Suzanne Chapin
617-353-7105
E-mail: schapin@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS, MAT, EdM, CAGS in Mathematics Education
MMT, Mathematics for Teaching
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching
The Mathematics Education Program focuses on both the content and teaching of mathematics. This includes mastery of fundamental mathematical concepts and processes, as well as the development of curricula and teaching methods applicable to differing age levels, interests, and aptitudes.
Graduate students may pursue the EdM, MAT, MMT, CAGS, or EdD. The MAT is for students who have earned liberal arts degrees in an academic field and who desire graduate-level mathematics courses and professional education courses in preparation for initial licensure. (See the Master of Arts in Teaching Program section in this department.) The EdM and CAGS are designed for teachers holding initial licensure who wish to expand their academic content base and teaching talents by becoming informed about the latest research, curricula, methodologies, and theories in mathematics education. Teachers on sabbatical leave and school systems with special interests are encouraged to inquire about individually designed sequences. The MMT is offered to applicants who hold an initial license for teaching mathematics and have taught a minimum of two years under that license.
Boston University’s Noyce Scholars Program in Mathematics provides full scholarships to MAT candidates who are interested in working in high-needs districts. Noyce Scholars complete the described MAT program. In addition, they enroll in a two-credit course, “Teaching Mathematics in Urban Schools,” tutor Boston Public School students, and receive individual mentoring and support. The one-year program leads to a master’s degree and initial teacher licensure.
Doctoral students prepare for careers in higher education at colleges and universities where they teach and conduct research in mathematics education. Students also apply their advanced study in mathematics and mathematics education to careers that emphasize leadership in school systems, curriculum and assessment development, program evaluation, mathematics teaching in two-year or four-year colleges, and policy leadership in government and professional associations.
See the description of the EdD Program in Curriculum & Teaching at the beginning of this section for more information on the doctoral program.
Undergraduate programs are available for students who wish to be licensed to teach mathematics in public schools. For complete information on these programs and application procedures, please contact Admissions, Boston University, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & COACHING
John McCarthy
617-353-0365
E-mail: jmmcc@bu.edu or coaching@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificates Offered
Graduate Certificate in Physical Education, Health Education & Coaching
(16 credits)
EdM in Physical Education, Coaching
EdM in Health Education
CAGS in Physical Education, Coaching
CAGS in Health Education
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching—
Physical Education, Health & Coaching
The Physical Education, Health & Coaching Program prepares students for physical education, health, and coaching responsibilities in elementary, middle, and secondary schools, colleges, youth agencies, fitness and social service organizations, as well as community associations. Students seeking to become health or physical education teachers, coaches, sports analysts, fitness trainers and consultants, or specialists in all branches of these fields may enroll in this program.
The graduate curriculum includes study in teaching physical education (kindergarten through college level), perceptual-motor learning, coaching, health, fitness, sports management, and sport theory. Those seeking licensure in health or physical education often can meet those requirements within their degree requirements. Graduate students plan their programs with an advisor to fulfill individual interests and the varied aspects of the field, as well as to meet the degree and/or licensure requirements of the School of Education. Depending upon their undergraduate preparation, some students may be required to complete extra courses beyond the graduate degree requirements in order to meet the requirements for an initial license in health or physical education. These extra courses are typically required sciences.
All licensure and nonlicensure physical education students are required to work with children as part of the long-standing Tuesday-Thursday Physical Education Program where Boston schoolchildren come to Boston University for physical education and movement experiences. This prepracticum assists in the preparation of teachers and provides hands-on teaching opportunities; students plan, teach, and evaluate their own lessons while they teach children who do not have physical education as part of their school day.
Graduate Certificate in Physical Education, Health Education & Coaching
The 16-credit all-online certificate in Physical Education, Health Education & Coaching provides students a foundation of knowledge and teaching methods, as well as research and theories in physical education, health education, and coaching. The certificate is designed for individuals who work with children or adults in physical education, physical activity, health, and coaching settings, from school, nonprofit organizations, recreational settings, and a wide variety of amateur and other coaching situations. Whether one is licensed in physical education or health education, a first-year youth sports coach, a classroom teacher who wants to learn about physical activity, a recent graduate from college, or someone seeking professional development to enter a new field related to sports and physical activity, this certificate provides graduate-level professional development. All the classes are offered in a sequence online and all or some of the credits can be applied to a degree program, depending on the program you choose to enter. It is important to note that degree students cannot register for the online classes and only those in the certificate program are eligible for the online classes. A student may not be registered in two programs at one time. The website for the graduate certificate is: www.bu.edu/online/online_programs/certificate_programs/physical_education.html.
The central focus of the health program is the preparation of health educators for schools, community health centers, and corporate settings. The program stresses independent student work and innovative strategies of broad-spectrum intervention to benefit the individual and contribute to the well-being of society.
The Health Education Program offers two study sequences. First, the school health education sequence prepares students to teach health education at both the elementary and secondary schools. This sequence is a state-approved licensure program. Second, the community health education sequence addresses the broad range of services offered to communities through health agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation organizations, neighborhood centers, and community action programs. This nonlicensure sequence provides students with an academic background in nutrition, wellness, substance abuse, and exercise. It can include attention to comprehensive health care or persons with disabilities.
The Coaching specialization is designed for individuals seeking either to begin a professional career in athletic coaching or to further their professional development by expanding and deepening their knowledge about coaching. The Coaching specialization is also appropriate for individuals who wish to move toward a career in coaching or research on coaching. Study in this program integrates history and philosophy of sport in society; research on individual and team coaching; and reflections on fieldwork with experienced, successful coaches.
The Coaching specialization includes a range of courses from which students may choose, depending upon their background and interests. Within the 36 credits of coursework, five core courses (20 credits) plus a practicum are required for all students. The remaining four courses are electives selected according to the student’s professional needs and interests in consultation with the advisor. Candidates are required to have completed an introductory course in one of the following areas: human anatomy/human physiology; kinesiology, motor learning, or biomechanics; or exercise physiology. There is no licensure available in the Coaching specialization.
Students who wish additional information about study at the doctoral level should refer to the Doctoral Program section of this website.
Community Service
For the past three decades, children from the Boston Public Schools have been brought to Boston University. The program, know as the Tuesday-Thursday Physical Education Program, is internationally renowned for its teaching-learning environment. The fact that the children are brought to a comprehensive university facility and that the teachers are graduate and undergraduate physical education students brings distinction to this program. All graduate students, licensure and nonlicensure, are required to teach and coach in this community service project. Students plan, implement, and evaluate their lessons for grades kindergarten through six. The teaching focus for the children is on cooperative physical activities, physical fitness, health, individual and team skills, and problem-solving activities. Lessons with physical activities reinforcing cognitive content are included in the teaching assignments.
Please refer to the Courses section for a complete listing of courses for this program.
SCIENCE EDUCATION
Douglas Zook
617-353-2030
E-mail: dzook@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS, MAT, EdM, CAGS in Science Education
The Science Education Program focuses on developing versatile, motivating science teachers who can truly make a difference in our schools. Students work on the development of innovative curricula and methods of teaching science. The science education specialization prepares graduates to teach and supervise science programs in a variety of settings, including schools, museums, and other educational organizations. Emphases are on: 1) preparing teachers who will be well-equipped in key ecological themes such as climate change and alternative energy, and 2) having emerging teachers be knowledgeable about the nature of science.
The MAT program in science education is designed for the student who has earned a liberal arts degree in a scientific field and who desires professional education courses to prepare for initial teaching licensure. For further details, see “Master of Arts in Teaching” in this section.
The doctoral program emphasizes the development of research skills and prepares individuals for postsecondary positions in community or technical colleges and in teacher training colleges and universities. For further information, please refer to the description of the EdD Program in Curriculum & Teaching section of this website.
A strong undergraduate program prepares students to teach science at the middle and high school levels. Special courses have been developed in a collaborative effort between the School of Education and the College of Arts & Sciences that combine pedagogy with in-depth exposure to contemporary science. Individuals interested in undergraduate work may contact Admissions, Boston University, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.
Related Programs
Healthy Futures Education Initiative
Through this focus, those students in science education studying to become science teachers receive timely training on environmental themes. This exposure revolves around our current development of a demonstration exhibit in science education which features solar, wind, and human power generation displays. The science behind global warming concerns and the need for alternative energy must be integrated into the core of young peoples’ learning. This initiative, woven into the methods classes in science education and within many content courses offered, will help prepare youth for a future where human beings can act more compatibly with our home—the earth. sedGreen is a unique group of students, faculty, and staff who meet regularly and devote time to making SED and the University overall more sustainable and energy efficient.
Exploring Quantum Concepts in General Chemistry
This project focuses on introducing undergraduate students to quantum concepts. The goal is to reform undergraduate education and produce a curriculum more in keeping with modern science. The project is an outgrowth of earlier research on how high school students learn quantum ideas, and how teachers can effectively support this learning. The project emphasizes how computer visualization tools can provide students with a descriptive introduction to quantum phenomena in atoms and molecules. For further information, contact Peter Garik (garik@bu.edu).
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Donna Lehr
617-353-4478
E-mail: dlehr@bu.edu
Degrees and Certificate Offered
BS, EdM, CAGS in Special Education
EdD in Curriculum & Teaching—Special Education
Students majoring in special education dedicate themselves to learning about the nature of disabilities and the ways in which individuals, families, schools, as well as local, state, and federal agencies work to improve the quality of life and outcomes for individuals with disabilities in school, employment, recreational, and residential settings. The Special Education Program at Boston University gives students the opportunity to learn about individuals with disabilities, programs and supports, and public policies that affect them throughout their lives.
Many students choose to combine their study of individuals with disabilities with preparation that leads to licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as special education teachers or special education administrators, and apply for reciprocity where available in other states if they move outside of Massachusetts. Graduates of the program are among those meeting the growing need felt throughout the country for qualified, licensed special education teachers and school administrators.
Students in the special education graduate program learn how to teach and support individuals with disabilities in school and community settings. Graduates bring their knowledge and skills to careers in (a) teaching and administration in public and private schools; (b) teaching and research in colleges and universities; and (c) vocational, recreational, and social work services through community agencies. At the graduate level, students can earn a master’s degree (EdM), a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS), or a doctor of education degree (EdD).
EdM in Special Education
The minimum requirement for an approved program in special education is 36 credits. Students take a core of required courses, listed below, to earn the master’s degree. Beyond these, students take specified courses required for each specialization or they develop an individualized program in consultation with an assigned special education advisor. The core courses are as follows:
SED SE 706 Introduction to Special Education
SED SE 760 Special Education: Cognition, Learning and Behavior
SED LS 560 Introduction to Language and Language Acquisition
SED SE 751 Assessment in Special Education: Procedures
SED RS 600 Perspectives of Inquiry
Specializations for master’s degree study within the Special Education Program are listed below. Those specializations marked with an * have been approved by the Massachusetts Department of Education. Massachusetts’ licensure candidates must meet all additional state testing requirements for licensure.
Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities (Pre-K–grade 8)*
Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities (Pre-K–grade 8) combined with Elementary Education (Grades 1–6)*
Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities (Grades 5–12)*
Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities (Ages 3–21)* Disabilities Studies Disability Studies and Social Work (Dual Degree Program)
The Special Education Program also offers a Special Education Administrator specialization, which includes additional requirements and can lead to Massachussetts licensure as a special education administrator.
*Specializations approved by the Massachusetts Department of Education.CAGS in Special Education
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) is designed for students who have completed a master’s degree and wish to pursue future specialized study in the area of special education. CAGS programs are individually designed by students in collaboration with faculty advisors and include a minimum of 32 credits of coursework and a comprehensive examination. Students pursue study through courses and independent studies with faculty within the Special Education Program, throughout the School of Education, and throughout Boston University in related schools and colleges. Among these are the College of Arts & Sciences, Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, the School of Management, the School of Law, and the School of Social Work.
EdD in Special Education
At the doctoral level, students develop a coherent and integrated program of study in collaboration with their faculty advisors in specialization areas such as teaching and learning among students with mild/moderate or severe disabilities, social justice, or they may focus on policies affecting and administration of programs for students with disabilities. An additional option is that of the combination of social work and special education, through a multifaceted course of study that leads to a master’s degree in social work and a doctoral degree in special education. Doctoral degree program graduates often pursue careers as teachers and scholars in colleges or universities, as program directors in schools or government agencies, or as community or organization leaders.
The doctoral program includes coursework, fieldwork, research courses, and a core of School of Education and Special Education Program required courses with faculty within the Special Education Program, throughout the School of Education, and throughout Boston University in related schools and colleges. Among these are the College of Arts & Sciences, Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, the School of Management, the School of Law, and the School of Social Work. Additionally, doctoral students must complete a comprehensive examination and a doctoral dissertation.
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One Silber Way
Boston, MA 02215
8 October 2009
Boston University
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