Master's Programs
Graduate Advisor: Dr. Mira Pak
The Master of Arts in Education Program with a specialization in Elementary Education is designed to prepare the elementary teacher for advancement as a master teacher, supervising teacher, subject matter teaching specialist, or department chairperson. Three program options (30-32 units) are available to candidates:
Curriculum & Instruction Option
View our C&I MA Brochure (.pdf)
For teachers interested in developing their skills to teach all curricular areas, this option is one choice for consideration. This degree pathway is designed for teachers interested in honing their knowledge and teaching skills to promote achievement for all elementary students through coursework designed to broaden knowledge of curriculum design models for K-6 classrooms, develop leadership skills as a teacher leader in understanding the context of K-6 education, acquire research skills in the disciplines specific to Elementary Education, and develop skills and knowledge in effectively working with students and families of diverse cultural backgrounds. Courses include the study of the research in each discipline and pedagogy to prepare elementary teachers to teach 21st century skills. This degree pathway is designed for a cohort of 18-22 graduate students. Each cohort will be customized to provide a selected focus on state curriculum frameworks and standards, while also addressing district or school-specific goals to provide a rich, meaning-centered curriculum that engages all students.
Language & Literacy Option
View our L&L MA Brochure (.pdf)
For teachers interested in learning about the ever-evolving world of literacy, this option explores current literacy theories and classroom practices relevant to the 21st century literacy needs of today’s students. This program focuses on traditional literacies, multiple literacies, cultural and community literacies, and critical literacies. Teachers who have a passion for literacy and for supporting all students in becoming successful readers, writers, thinkers and speakers will find this program to be a great choice. Through clinical experiences in the Literacy Center on campus and experiences within actual classroom settings, CSUN students are involved in learning, assessing and creating literacy programs and experiences that engage and support all students. Two of the courses provide clinical settings for assessing and assisting children who have been identified as struggling readers in their schools.
The courses provided in this program also meet most of the requirements needed for the Reading and Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential and many students elect to complete the requirements for both their Master’s Degree and Reading and Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential simultaneously.
Contact Information for Reading and Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential- Reading Language and Literacy Coordinator: Dr. Mira Pak
Multicultural & Multilingual Option
See our program flyer (.pdf)
Both monolingual English teachers and bilingual teachers select this option to refine their skills in tailoring instruction to the needs of students learning English as a second language. The focus is on teaching children from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The use of formal and informal assessments in the evaluation of learners is emphasized. Research-based strategies for providing English learners access to the core curriculum are used in planning curriculum and instruction.
The Multicultural Option in Elementary Education places emphasis on developing a comprehensive and balanced approach to teaching culturally diverse students in K- 8 settings. This option provides an overview of multicultural education that includes theories and practices in culturally relevant pedagogy, language acquisition, family and community assets, and multicultural arts education.