Early Elementary Education (Non-Certification Track), M.S.

Overview and Mission

Neumann University’s graduate program leading to the Master of Science in Education in Early Elementary Education is consistent with, and driven by, the University’s Mission Statement. Students acquire the foundational and pedagogical skills to work with young children in grades PK-4. By learning about cutting-edge pedagogical theory and applying interpretations of that theory to teaching practices, graduate students know and show others how to orchestrate assessment, diversity, technique, and technology within the context of contemporary education. The goal of this program degree is to instill the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes of educators in early elementary settings.

Program Design and Outcomes

Successful graduates of Neumann University’s Early Elementary Education Program will be able to :

• Demonstrate knowledge and competence in the areas of academic, social, and emotional growth, and methods to use that knowledge to maximize a student’s capabilities.
• Utilize research-based effective instructional strategies and diagnostic tools
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of child development and appropriate diagnostic and instructionally adaptive strategies for all learners
• Competently apply appropriate instructional practices to meet the diverse needs of all students.

Admission Requirements

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited, degree-granting institution are eligible for entrance to the Master of Science in Early Elementary Education Program, subject to the approval of the Program Director.  Acceptance is on a competitive basis after submission of all credentials and an interview with the Program Director.  All applicants must submit the following:

• A completed Graduate Student Application, in print or online through www.neumann.edu/apply
• Official transcripts from each regionally accredited, degree granting institution attended.
• Letter of intent which outlines why you wish to pursue the Master of Science in Education degree.
• Names and telephone numbers of two professional references.
• Security clearances that meet current state-approved teaching requirements.

Once all admission materials have been received and processed through the Office of Admissions, the graduate Program Director will arrange for an interview, if appropriate, following a review of all candidate credentials. 

Nine graduate credits from a regionally accredited institution of higher education may be transferred into the program with the approval of the School Dean.

Field Experience

Field experiences are required for several courses within this program. Students must obtain and submit with admissions material all security clearances that meet current state-approved teaching requirements. For current security clearance requirements, contact the Field Experience Coordinator.

Graduation Requirements

For the Master of Science in Education in Early Elementary Education, continued progress requires that the student maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in the required courses and satisfactory participation in the program. Completion of all degree requirements for the program is not to exceed five years. Exemption to this time limitation must be applied for in a written request to the School Dean. Graduation from the program is contingent upon (1) submitting a signed Application for Graduation form to the Registrar on or before the date specified in the Academic Calendar; and (2) successful completion of all course work, including field experience. The student must maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in all required courses, with no more than two grades of “C” level work or below.  If the student’s GPA falls below a 3.0, the student will be put on probation. The student will have one semester to bring his/her GPA up above a 3.0. If this does not occur, the student will be dismissed from the program.