MA in Education (Elementary Education)

Introduction

This program is only open to current ETAP doctoral students.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education with an area of emphasis in elementary education will enable students to explore theories, issues, and approaches in elementary education through coursework and the development of research competencies, culminating in the completion of an approved M.A. thesis. At the end of their studies, students will emerge with advanced knowledge of the variety of issues inherent in the study of curriculum development, elementary schools, and society, and will be prepared to conduct research.

Highlights

1. World-renowned faculty
2. Gain a master’s thesis as part of a research-oriented program
3. Make yourself more marketable with research skills when considering pursuit of doctoral programs

Curriculum

Take core courses in elementary education, curriculum and instruction, research, and ancillary areas of education to sharpen research skills. We encourage you to focus on your research interests and take research courses across the College and University.

Most of our students go on to pursue a doctoral degree.

Our elementary education faculty members have expertise in fields such as:

• Teacher education
• Play-based pedagogies
• Teacher professional learning
• Family engagement
• Homeschooling
• Disabilities studies in education
• Project- and inquiry-based pedagogy
• Teacher wellness
• Arts and creativity
• Social studies

This degree program meets the GaPSC requirements for a certification upgrade (T-5) for public school teachers who are certified in elementary education at the T-4 level.

The program of study for the elementary education emphasis requires at least 30 credit hours distributed as follows:

Elementary Education (9 hours)

• EDEL 7010: Trends and Issues in Elementary Education (3 hours)
• EDEL 7020: Theory and Curriculum in Elementary Education (3 hours)
• EDEL(EDEC) 8030: Research Perspectives in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (3 hours)

Curriculum and Instruction (9 hours)

Choose 9 hours from the following:

• EDEL 7050: Teaching in Elementary Schools (P-5) (3 hours)
• EDEL 7110: The Educational Role of Play in Elementary Education (3 hours)
• EDEL 7160: Instructional Strategies for Elementary Education (3 hours)
• EDEL 7170: Evaluation of the Elementary School (3 hours)
• EDEL 7200: Developmental Issues of Elementary School Learners (3 hours)
• ETAP 7420: Ethical and Justice Frameworks for Education (3 hours)
• ETAP 8160: Teaching and Learning in Neoliberal Times (3 hours)
• ETAP 8180: Research in Multicultural Teacher Education (3 hours)
• Appropriate course(s) approved by the faculty advisor

Research Courses (3 hours)

Choose 3 hours from the following:

• EDEL 7650: Literature Review in Elementary Education (3 hours)
• ERSH 6200: Methods of Research in Education (3 hours)
• ERSH 6300: Applied Statistical Methods in Education (3 hours)
• ETAP(QUAL)(ERSH) 7500: Action Research (3 hours)
• QUAL 7800: Topics in Educational Research (1-3 hours)
• QUAL 8400: Qualitative Research Traditions (3 hours)

Electives (6 hours)

• Appropriate courses approved by the faculty advisor

Thesis (3 hours)

• ETAP 7300: Master’s Thesis (3 hours)

How to Apply

Part 1: Apply to the University of Georgia

The Graduate School handles admission for all graduate programs at the University of Georgia, including those in the College of Education. The Graduate School website contains important details about the application process, orientation, and many other useful links to guide you through the process of attending UGA at the graduate level.

Start a Graduate School Application

Part 2: Apply to the M.A. in Education (Area of Emphasis in Elementary Education: ELMD)

Admission is dependent on a number of factors, including the match of the student’s interests to faculty research interests, GPA, and availability of an appropriate advisor.

The M.A. in Education (elementary education) is considered a typical route to the doctorate because of its strong research emphasis.

Applications require:

• Statement of purpose
• TOELF/IELTS scores (for international students)
• Current resume
• Transcripts from every institution at which a degree was earned
• 3 letters of recommendations (preferably 2 of them from faculty who taught you as a student)

Deadline to Apply

• Applications are due December 1 for admission into the following fall semester
• This program only accepts for fall admission

Log into Existing Application