Amanda Gunning, Ph.D., Chair
914-674-7399
agunning@mercy.edu

(Non-certification Program)

The 30-credit Master of Science in Educational Studies degree is a unique program designed for professionals working with children and adolescents who do not wish to pursue New York State teacher certification. Individuals with at least a baccalaureate degree may seek this master’s degree if they are interested in career advancement or employment in education-related fields. The program seeks to prepare professional education experts who are reflective, knowledgeable, empowered to serve diverse populations and communities, and are equipped with technological and research skills. The goal of the program is to provide the necessary flexibility and range of options to develop professional educators with the understanding, strategies, and commitment to work in a variety of settings. This degree is available fully online or in person. The program would meet the needs of Distance Learning students outside of New York State and students interested in careers in education, but not in teaching public school. Examples of such careers include early childhood administration, children’s publishing and media, children’s library or literacy services, educational policy, advocacy, and government, preparation for doctoral study, children’s museum directors, summer camps and youth sports leaders, not-for-profit organizations, and charter school management or professional development services.

Coursework includes a 9-credit foundation core. Students may then choose an 18-credit concentration in: Early Education, Secondary Education, Literacy, STEM Education, TESOL, or Teaching Students with Disabilities. A 3-credit capstone thesis course is required at the end of the program. The program includes elective choices allowing a substantial focus on the individual’s area of interest, and builds up to a creative yet practical, individualized research project.

Please note that this degree does not lead to New York State teaching certification.