Skip to main content
teaching sitting on couch reading with elementary students

Elementary teachers

We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is April 15, 2024.

Guaranteed 65% scholarship

Online learning options

Teach the school year following enrollment

Program overview

Few careers give people the opportunity to impact individuals and their communities like teaching. Can you think of a specific teacher who made a difference in your life?  Would you like to become that kind of teacher?

The elementary school years are the most formative and can impact the rest of a child’s schooling experience. Warner will prepare you to become an innovative elementary school teacher, committed and able to help all students succeed. If you want to complete the master’s program leading to initial teaching certification full-time in 15 months, you must start the program in the summer. 

Key program features

  • Meets All Coursework and Internship Requirements for BOTH Initial and Professional NYS Teaching Certification: In addition, you will need to pass the required state exams and complete the teaching requirements for professional certification.
  • Shortest Program: Preservice teachers can complete the program in 15 months of full-time study (if starting in summer); certified teachers seeking additional certification in childhood education may require less time.  
  • Focus on Content-Based Pedagogy: Includes a methods course in each of the four core content areas plus the arts; student teaching is taken concurrently with methods courses.
  • Focus on Teaching ALL Students: Includes courses on diversity, students with disabilities, and English language learners (ELLs); these required courses may be transferred in for certified teachers.
  • Option to Add Specializations:  With only a few extra credits, you can pursue additional NYS certifications or advanced certificates that can strengthen your effectiveness with diverse learners and make you more marketable.

Prerequisites (as required by NYS)

  • Undergraduate degree in a liberal art (BA) or science (BS).

Scholarships, Tuition, & Financial Aid

Guaranteed 65% tuition savings

Byron Williams Teaching Scholarships

Questions?

Certification options

Choose a certification to earn in addition to your degree.
What certification do you need? Learn more

Initial & Professional Certification

45 credits (including field experiences and two student teaching experiences in childhood settings); leading to New York State certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6. Coursework for the master's degree in childhood education (grades 1 to 6).

57 credits (including field experiences and two student teaching experiences in inclusive settings); leading to New York State certification in both Early Childhood Education and Teaching Students with Disabilities in Early Childhood. Coursework for the master's degree in childhood education and an advanced certificate in early childhood education. 

57 credits (including field experiences and two student teaching experiences in inclusive settings); leading to New York State certification in both Childhood Education and Teaching Students with Disabilities in Childhood. Coursework for the master's degree in childhood education and an advanced certificate in inclusion childhood education

Professional Certification Only

(30 credits): Most flexible option, with 12 credits of electives, besides the requirement to take our elementary methods courses in math, ELA, science and social studies; electives can be chosen strategically.  Coursework for the master's degree in professional study: childhood education (grades 1-6).

(30 credits): You can complete this program with only a total of 12 trips to campus in the summer, by choosing online options for electives and core courses and by taking blended courses that link content and pedagogy, meeting only once a week in July-mid August. Coursework for the master's degree in professional study: generalist (distance option)

To be able to also teach kindergarten and preschool (requires 34 credits including field experiences and one student teaching experience). Coursework for the master's degree in early childhood education (birth to grade 2)

To be able to better serve your students' diverse learning needs and to teach in inclusive classes (requires 35 credits including field experiences and one student teaching experience). Coursework for the master's degree in inclusive childhood education (grades 1-6)

32 credits, including 50 contact hours of field experiences; also leads to NYS professional teaching certification in your original area of certification. Coursework for the master's degree in childhood education (grades 1-6)

Non-Certification

On its own or combined with advanced certificates. If you are interested in working with elementary-aged students in a variety of contexts such as tutoring centers or other school-aged programs not requiring certification. Coursework for the master's degree in childhood education (non-teacher certification).

Advanced Certificates

Advanced Certificate in Childhood Education

Fastest path; as few as 11 credits, including specialization courses plus 50 hours of field experiences. Coursework for the advanced certificate in childhood education (grades 1-6).

Opportunities for additional specializations

  • Advanced Certificate in Urban Teaching Leadership
  • Advanced Certificate in Digitally Rich Teaching
  • Advanced Certificate in Elementary Mathematics Specialist
  • Advanced Certificate in Early Intervention (certifying in Students with Disabilities B-Grades 2)
  • Advanced Certificate Literacies
  • Advanced Certificate in TESOL

Customize your degree

Our degrees are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to add an advanced certificate or specialize in a distinct area of emphasis, we can help craft the best option for you.

We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is April 15, 2024.

Contact admissions

Request information

Receive a $70 application fee waiver when you complete the form below.

Loading...

Take a course before you apply

Take a course before you apply to one of our programs for a discounted price. Inquire with admissions to learn about credits that also apply toward degree requirements.

Related certificates and degrees

  • Master’s in Elementary Education Without Certification
  • Master’s in Human Development (with Specialization in Early Childhood)
  • Doctoral Programs Focusing on Elementary Education
  • GRADE Program for Undergraduate Applicants

Start your application