Philosophy

The Master of Arts in Education Program in the College of Education at Cal State San Marcos is characterized by its emphasis on critical pedagogy and reflective practice.  The program’s view of educators as an instructional, ethical, and curricular leader places high value on individual empowerment, on multiple ways of knowing, the construction of meaning and the production (vs. reproduction) of knowledge.

Objective

The Master of Arts in Education is designed for classroom teachers, administrators, and other educators who wish to extend or refine their knowledge and skills beyond the level attained in their previous studies. For some, Master’s level study is a way to improve their performance in the classroom; others seek preparation for leadership roles at the school or district level; still others may wish to use Master’s studies as the basis for graduate work at the Doctoral level.

The Master of Arts in Education consists of three components; core coursework, the option, and the culminating experience.

Core Coursework
All Master’s students in the College of Education will complete the core coursework for a total of nine (9) units. Students must complete one of the following multicultural education courses; EDUC 602 – Schooling in a Multicultural Society (3 units) or EDAD 610 – Leading School Communities in a Pluralistic Society (3 units). Students must also complete EDUC 622 – Research Methods (3 units) and EDUC 698 - Culminating Experience Seminar (3 units).
 

The Option

Students may pursue their particular areas of interest according to their individual needs and goals.    Students pursuing a Master of Arts in Education can choose the General Option in Education or may pursue advanced credential certifications in the following areas: Communicative Sciences & Disorders, Educational Administration, Literacy Education, and Special Education. 

The Culminating Experience
All MA students in the College of Education must complete EDUC 698 – Master’s Culminating Experience Seminar (3 units) as part of the culminating experience for Master's study. The culminating experience may be a thesis, project including National Board Certification Teacher (NBCT) process, or an examination.

Master of Arts in Education Program Brochure:  (Text)  (PDF)