Ed.M. with Certification in Elementary Education (K-6)

Program Overview

The Ed.M. program with (K-6) teacher certification is designed for individuals who already possess a bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue both teacher certification and a master’s degree in education at the same time. The program’s curriculum covers a range of foundational and specialized topics in elementary education including the principles of classroom learning, evaluation and assessment, subject-specific teaching, classroom organization, literacy development, and educational psychology. In alignment with the GSE’s mission, all teacher preparation programs and courses are designed to prepare teacher candidates to effectively teach diverse learners by fostering a deep understanding of students from historically underserved linguistic, economic, and cultural backgrounds and communities. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be effective practitioners knowledgeable about current research in learning, teaching, and child development, and prepared to make informed decisions about their educational practice. 

After the master’s degree is awarded, the GSE will make a recommendation to the New Jersey State Department of Education on behalf of the graduate to receive their Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) as a teacher.  

Program Goals as of 2022-2023
(Last updated: 7/18/2022)

Knowledge/Understanding 

• Students will build deep understanding of how children learn and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually (across cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical domains) and are shaped by diverse cultures and communities.  
• Students will develop strategies for communicating and collaborating with students, families, community members, and other educators to support inclusive learning environments that empower each learner to meet high standards. 
• Students will develop, expand, and deepen content knowledge and understanding (e.g., mathematics, literacy, science, language, and elementary and early childhood education), drawing on current research to plan and implement high quality Preschool-8th grade instruction. 

Communication/Community Building 

• Students will participate in local, professional, and scholarly communities through communication and collaboration (e.g., research, presentations, and service).  
• Students will develop strategies for communicating and collaborating with students, families, community members, and other educators to support inclusive learning environments that empower each learner to meet high standards. 

Social Justice (Urban Education Teacher Preparation) 

• Students will examine social justice issues and collaboratively promote educational equity in educational settings, where diverse backgrounds and perspectives (educational, cultural, personal, social, economic) are an integral part of the learning experience, by exploring and addressing them in intentional and meaningful ways. 

Research/Professional Practice 

• Students will examine research and professional resources to inform their practice and address problems of practice, as well as interpret and evaluate studies and resources in professional areas of interest, which may lead to the disruption of traditional structures, norms, and expectations.  

Assessment 

• Students will evaluate, identify, and use developmentally and disciplinarily appropriate models and approaches to effectively design and implement assessment of learning and teaching. 

Professional Development/Self-Reflection 

• Students will capitalize on opportunities for continuous professional learning and development, including reflective self-inquiry, in order to contribute to and improve their practice and the teaching profession.  

For more information about this program:

• Prospective students should download the revised proposed program guide (with fewer required credits) effective September 2025*. The program guide includes a proposed course list and application requirements for the anticipated new program.
• The current program guide is effective through Summer 2025 and is applicable to all current students.
• For more information about the pending changes to the program, please attend a GSE Initial Licensure Information Session or watch this video of an information session, password: ?0fzQs9I
• Contact Ken Tufo, Student Counselor in the Office of Student and Academic Services for further information.

*Pending final approval from the New Jersey Department of Education and Rutgers University.

Program Details