Elementary Education, M.S.

I. Contact Information

Margaret Ferrara, Ph.D., Graduate Program Director 
(775) 682-7530
ferrara@unr.edu

Mailing Address:

University of Nevada, Reno
College of Education, Mail Stop 0280
1664 North Virginia Street
Reno, NV 89557

II. Brief Introduction

The Master of Science program in Elementary Education is designed for in-service teachers in the field of elementary education to deepen their understanding of content and pedagogy in science and mathematics education with a background in STEM education. The coursework is carefully designed to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of standards, research and pedagogy to be effective learners. This program also prepares students to serve in leadership capacities (in math, science or STEM) in their schools, district and communities.

GOALS OF PROGRAM:

• Develop teacher leaders in elementary education with a focus on STEM content.
• Develop capacity to improve overall learning of elementary students.
• Provide teachers with cutting-edge research and pedagogical tools and content to improve instruction.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

1. Analyze and synthesize research in elementary education.
2. Apply research on content and pedagogy in elementary education in the classroom to improve student learning.
3. Demonstrate leadership abilities to serve in leadership roles in the school, the district, and the communities.

III. Admission Requirements

Graduate School Application for Master of Science in Elementary Education:

Admission Procedures:
Apply to the UNR Graduate School
Apply online at: http://www.unr.edu/grad/
Verify when you are applying that the code will be MS-EED.
 
Please forward all official transcripts to:
Graduate School
M/S 0326
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV  89557-0326
 
Apply to the Elementary Master of Science Program:
 
Include the following materials in your completed packet:

• Completed application form
• 3-4 page essay that addresses these issues:
  • Why are you interested in applying to this program?
  • What special skills do you have in elementary education as a teacher with a focus on science and mathematics?
  • What professional contributions have you made to your school and/or district?
• Signed disposition sheet
• Professional resume that summarizes teaching experiences and related experiences working with students, teachers and the community.
• 2 letters of recommendation (will accept the graduate school on-line recommendations). Recommendations should provide detailed descriptions of professional qualities and potential for teaching.
  • At least one recommendation must be from a supervisor who has directly observed your work with children.
  • The other recommendation may be from an employer who has directly supervised your work experiences.
• Copy of teaching license (K-8) if applicable.
• If your GPA is below 3.0, a copy of your GRE scores from the past 5 years.

Please e-mail or mail application materials to:

Elementary Education
M/S 0280  
College of Education
University of Nevada, Reno

IV. Program Requirements

The Master of Science (M.S) degree focuses on the application of theory in curriculum, teaching and learning with an emphasis on research. A minimum of 36 hours of credits with 15 at the 700 level are required. A culminating research based project is required. A sample program of study is listed below:

V. Total Units (36 Units)