Education
School of Education
907-474-7341
www.uaf.edu/educ/
B.A., M.Ed. Degree and Postbaccalaureate Licensures; Minor
Minimum Requirements for Art K-12 Licensure: 34 credits; Elementary Postbaccalaureate Licensure: 39 credits; Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure: 31-37 credits; Special Education K-12 Postbaccalaureate Licensure Program Certificate of Completion: 24-27 credits; M.Ed.: 30-39 credits
The University of Alaska Fairbanks complies fully with the institutional reporting requirements mandated in Title II of the Higher Education Act Amendments of 1998. Please contact the School of Education for a copy of the complete report.
The UAF School of Education prepares students from across Alaska, as well as from other states and nations, to work in urban and rural Alaska and to work with multicultural and minority -- especially Alaska Native -- students. To fulfill our commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for the state’s rural and Native populations, faculty actively and knowledgeably utilize educational technology to deliver all School of Education programs to students in most areas of the state.
The School of Education offers programs in elementary education, secondary education, counseling, curriculum and instruction, and reading at both the postbaccalaureate and Master of Education degree levels. During their internships, candidates pay an additional fee. Charges are added to fee statements each semester.
The UAF School of Education is approved by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development to recommend its students for Alaska licensure as elementary and secondary teachers and school counselors. Courses are available on-site and by distance delivery through the Kuskokwim, Bristol Bay, Interior Alaska, Chukchi, and Northwest campuses, as well as on the Fairbanks campus. Faculty research in cross-cultural studies, curriculum and instruction, language and literacy, and small rural schools support the mission of the School of Education.
Priority for enrollment in field-based courses is given to rural students formally admitted to degree and licensure programs. All inquiries should be addressed to one of the rural campuses or to the School of Education’s Student Services office.
Candidates for elementary and secondary licensures are required to have use of/own a laptop computer before enrolling in the fall semester. This computer may be of any type but must have capacities that enable the candidate to meet School of Education requirements. Candidates enrolled in School of Education courses at any level (with the exception of 500 level professional development courses) are eligible to purchase a Macintosh laptop computer at a special discount through the School of Education.
UAF education programs are approved by the Alaska State Board of Education standards and accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. For information about these programs contact one of the School of Education academic advisors.
The State of Alaska requires that all initial applicants for a teaching certificate provide evidence of passing Alaska qualifying scores on the Praxis I; Academic Skills Assessment including the Pre-Professional Skills Test and/or the Computer-Based Academic Skills Assessment. For additional information, visit the website of the State Department of Education and Early Development at www.eed.state.ak.us/TeacherCertification/.
Art K-12 Licensure Program toward M.Ed., Secondary Education
Offered on the Fairbanks campus only, this is an intensive, classroom-based K-12 art licensure program (34 credits) that prepares postbaccalaureate candidates for K-12 teaching positions. The program is specifically designed to prepare candidates to teach in multicultural settings in Alaska. The content will specifically identify and discuss current issues of art education and applying Alaska content/performance standards and frameworks as well as national standards for art education.
Candidates who apply as graduate applicants may simultaneously pursue teacher licensure and the M.Ed. secondary education degree. Significant additional course work will be required. (See requirements for M.Ed. secondary education.)
At the end of the program, if students have successfully met all of the program requirements, they will be eligible to apply for an Alaska initial teaching license and will receive certificates of completion from UAF.
Candidates who enter the K-12 Art Licensure program are required to have use of/own a laptop computer before they begin their internships in the fall semester of their professional year.
For program options and professional field experiences information, please see information listed in the catalog for the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program.
Admission to the K-12 Art licensure program toward M.Ed. in secondary education includes meeting requirements of the UAF Graduate School and the School of Education. Candidates take five of the licensure courses at the F600 level.
For information on the application process, acceptance to the program and professional field experience, please refer to the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program toward M.Ed. section in the catalog.
Admission Process and Requirements
Applicants will follow the admission process and requirements listed in the catalog for the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program, with the exception that applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in art from an accredited university or college. Applicants should be aware that additional content course work may be required, depending on content of degree. Additional course work, as determined by the appropriate departments, may mean a delay of program admission until requirements are fulfilled.
Program Requirements
- Complete the following:
ED F452O--Elementary Internship--3 credits
ED F453O--Secondary Internship--3 credits
ED F649--Elementary Art Methods--3 credits
EDSC F402--Methods of Teaching in the Secondary School--3 credits
EDSC F415--Foundations of Modern Educational Practices (3)
or EDSE F205--Introduction to Secondary Education (3)--3 credits
EDSC F614--Learning, Development and Special Needs Instruction (3)
or EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence (3)
EDSC F636--Secondary Art Instruction and Assessment--3 credits
EDSC F642--Technology Applications in Education I--1 credit
EDSC F643--Technology Applications in Education II--2 credits
EDSC F657--Multicultural Education and School-Community Relations--4 credits
EDSC F658--Classroom Organization and Management--3 credits
PSY F240--Psychology of Development (3)
or PSY F245--Child Development (3)--3 credits - Minimum credits required--34 credits
Elementary (K-8) Postbaccalaureate Licensure Program
This program is offered in Fairbanks and College of Rural and Community Development campus service areas. The elementary teacher postbaccalaureate program is an intensive, year-long program designed to provide students with the course work and internship experience necessary to meet the Alaska Teacher Standards and be eligible for licensure as an elementary teacher in Alaska. This classroom-based program is built upon the principle of partnership -- a cooperative effort between interns, mentor teachers and university faculty partners.
Students begin the program in the summer with a 9-credit block of courses. Students who complete the undergraduate courses ED F110, F201, F330, F344, and EDSE F316 can use these to fulfill the summer requirements. During the academic year of the school district, all students complete two semesters of integrated university courses and internship.
Students must apply through the Office of Admissions and the Registrar to graduate with a certificate of completion. At the end of the school year, if students have successfully met all of the program requirements, they will be eligible to apply for an Alaska Elementary License.
Elementary applicants apply as graduate-level licensure students. They may choose to complete this licensure program as part of the M.Ed. degree in elementary education. However, application to the M.Ed. degree program should be made at the beginning of elementary postbaccalaureate course work to avoid losing credits for the M.Ed. degree. (See M.Ed. elementary education options requirements.) Candidates who enter the elementary postbaccalaureate licensure program are required to have laptop computers prior to enrolling in ED F344 or F624.
Admission and Application Information
It is recommended that students submit applications before Dec. 15 to provide time to complete prerequisites if necessary. Applications will be reviewed as submitted. Deadline is Feb. 15.
Admission includes meeting both UAF graduate admissions requirements and the School of Education admissions requirements.
Graduate School Requirements:
Submit the following to the UAF Office of Admissions with a copy to the School of Education:
- UAF Graduate application and fee.
- Official transcript of bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and official transcripts from all institutions attended. A GPA of at least 3.0 (B grade) in undergraduate degree is required but students with less than a 3.0 may be considered for conditional admission in special circumstances.
- GRE scores if undergraduate GPA is below 3.0.
- Three letters of reference that address qualifications and potential as a teacher.
- A vitae/resume.
- Four-to-five-page essay indicating: reasons for wanting to become a teacher, assessment of academic and personal strengths relative to teaching, future plans and reasons for selecting the elementary postbaccalaureate program.
School of Education Requirements
Submit the following information directly to the School of Education, using School of Education forms:
- Alaska passing scores from the Praxis I or Praxis Core ASE exam in reading, writing and mathematics and score from Praxis II Elementary Content exam (test 0014 or 5014).
- Completed academic analysis form to provide information on breadth and depth of prior course work relative to 10 Alaska Student Content Standard areas.
If additional course work is required, it must be completed prior to beginning the program. - Extemporaneous writing sample, autobiography, evidence of technology competence, evidence of successful paid or volunteer teaching/learning experience, evidence of successful cross-cultural experience.
- Evidence of technology competence through successful completion of ED F237 or by successfully challenging each of the four components of the two-credit course.
- Completed Alaska Department of Education and Early Development authorization packet (fingerprint cards and criminal background check necessary to work in schools). Packet is available from the School of Education.
- Some school districts may require interns to submit a physical examination form.
Program Requirements
- During the summer semester complete the following graduate level credits; or complete ED F110, F201, F330, F344 and EDSE F316 prior to Aug. 1 of the internship year.
ED F624--Foundations of Education in Alaska: From Segregation to Standards*--3 credits
ED F625--Exceptional Learners and Child Development: Individual and Cultural Characteristics--3 credits
ED F626--Teaching Reading, Writing and Language Arts--3 credits
* ED F624 meets the State of Alaska requirement for an approved multicultural/cross-cultural communication course. - During the fall semester complete the following:
ED F411--Reading, Writing, Language Arts: Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F412W--Integrated Social Studies and Language Arts: Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F466--Internship and Collaborative Student Teaching--3 credits
ED F467--Synthesizing the Standards I--2 credits
ED F478/F678--Mathematics Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F479/F688--Science Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits - During the spring semester complete the following:
ED F414--Art, Music and Drama in the Elementary Classroom--3 credits
ED F417--Physical Education and Health Education for Elementary Teachers--3 credits
ED F468O--Internship and Student Teaching--4 credits
ED F469--Synthesizing the Standards II--2 credits
ED F476--Literacy Development Profiles--1 credit - Minimum credits required--39 credits
Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure Program toward M.Ed., Secondary Education
Program is offered in Fairbanks and in areas served by the College of Rural and Community Development campuses and their service areas with the exception of the Aleutian-Pribilof Center.
This is an intensive, classroom-based secondary licensure program (31 credits) that prepares postbaccalaureate candidates for secondary (grades 7-12) teaching positions. The program is specifically designed to prepare candidates to teach in multicultural settings in Alaska. Content that addresses multicultural issues in general, and Alaska rural issues in particular, is contained specifically in EDSC F657, Multicultural Education and School-Community Relations, and is a fundamental component of the course work within the program. When funding is available, all secondary Fairbanks candidates participate in a rural practicum.
Candidates who apply as graduate applicants may simultaneously pursue teacher licensure and the M.Ed. secondary education degree. Significant additional course work will be required. (See requirements for M.Ed. secondary education option.)
Student outcomes for the program are based on the Standards for Alaska’s Teachers located at www.eed.state.ak.us/standards/pdf/teacher.pdf.
At the end of the program, if students have successfully met all of the program requirements, they will be eligible to apply for an Alaska initial teaching licenses and will receive certificates of completion from UAF.
Candidates who enter the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program are required to have use of/own laptop computers before they begin their internships in the fall semester of their professional year. Candidates are expected to be proficient in Windows Office software, including, but not limited to, word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software.
Program Options: Fast Track, Two-Year or Teaching While Training
Fast Track Option
The Fast Track Option is an intensive three-semester program that allows candidates (one year unpaid interns) to complete the secondary licensure program as full-time students in 12 months. Candidates take class “summer-fall-spring.” The academic year-long internship is completed during the fall and spring semesters.
Two-Year Option
The Two-Year Option allows candidates (two year unpaid interns) to complete the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program as part-time students over a period of 18-24 months. The last semester of the program requires full-time placement at a public school site.
Teaching While Training Option
The Teaching While Training Option is for candidates (teacher interns) who have secured a teaching position with an Alaska School District. Generally, this option is available only to those candidates in areas of teacher shortage. Candidates complete the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program over a period of 24 months.
Admissions Process and Requirements
Admission to the secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program toward an M.Ed. in secondary education includes meeting requirements of the UAF Graduate School and of the School of Education. Candidates take five of the licensure courses at the F600 level.
Submit the following information to the UAF Office of Admissions and the Registrar:
- UAF graduate application and application fee.
- Official transcript of bachelor’s degree from accredited institution. Applicants who have attended more than one university should include transcripts from all universities.
- GRE scores if undergraduate GPA is less than 3.0.
- Three current letters of reference that address qualifications and potential as a teacher.
- A vitae/resume.
- A personal statement of 1200-1500 words explaining your motivation for becoming a teacher. Describe how your academic qualifications and work experiences have prepared you for a career in teaching. Elaborate on personal strengths you possess, including your ability to work collaboratively with others. Describe your experiences with adolescents in instructional and supervisory capacities. Explain why you believe you can help young people of all cultures be successful in school.
Submit the following information to the School of Education:
- Extemporaneous writing sample.
- Passing scores from the Alaska Praxis I or Praxis Core ASE exam in reading, writing and mathematics.
- Academic Content Testing
- Content area exams: Candidates must submit a score report from the relevant content knowledge Praxis II subject test for each content area the applicant expects to teach. The scores must meet the score set by the State of Alaska (www.eed.state.ak.us/TeacherCertification/pdf/Content_Area_Exams.pdf).
- World language exams: Applicants applying to teach a world language are required to submit Praxis II scores in the target language and for the ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview and Test. Applicants must meet the Advanced Low rating for both tests (www.languagetesting.com). In the target language, write a 2-3 page, well organized, coherent response to one of three prompts (contact SOE secondary program for additional information
- Demonstrated evidence of content competency in one of the UAF-approved secondary endorsement areas: art, biology, Earth science, economics, English, French, German, political science, history, mathematics, physics and Spanish.
- The applicant holds a degree in an approved UAF secondary endorsement area or;
- Those applicants who do not hold a degree in the academic content area that they expect to teach, must have documentation of content competency reviewed by a secondary program faculty review team prior to application to program. Additional course work may be required to enter the program.
- Initial content preparation: complete a checklist of each content area you expect to teach (www.uaf.edu/educ/secondary/admissions/).
- Applicants must submit a placement packet; contact the School of Education for specifics. The School of Education determines placement approval, change or termination.
- All applicants will be required to interview with secondary faculty as part of the admission process.
Application Review Process
Applications are due March 1 (summer or fall admissions) and October 15 (spring admissions), and are reviewed thereafter for admission. A candidate may be admitted, not admitted, or admitted with stipulations. Stipulations are specified when additional development in a particular area(s) is needed before beginning a secondary postbaccalaureate program.
The UAF School of Education coordinates the review and evaluation of the candidate’s qualifications, professional experiences and academic performance with appropriate academic departments based on the contents of his/her application. The secondary postbaccalaureate program is a selective teacher education program. A comprehensive system including multiple measures is used to assess personal characteristics, communication skills and basic skills of candidates preparing to teach. Multiple assessment measures include a review of transcripts, content area strengths and/or Praxis II scores, personal statement and/or writing proficiency exams, Praxis I and/or GRE exam scores, and letters of reference. A personal interview will be required as part of the admission process.
Upon Acceptance to the Program
The School of Education has a systematic procedure for monitoring the progress of education students from admission through completion of their professional education program to determine if they should continue the program, be advanced to the secondary teaching internship and eventually be recommended for a teaching license. In assessing candidate progress in knowledge, skills and disposition, faculty will review grades, observations, faculty recommendations, demonstrated academic competence and recommendations from the appropriate professionals in the schools. Systematic approaches are used to assist education candidates who are making unsatisfactory progress in their programs, but still maintain potential for successful completion.
The following are specific criteria for entry to the secondary teaching internship:
- successful completion of summer program courses;
- approval of faculty to enter the secondary education internship;
- some school districts may require candidates to pass a general physical exam and require additional shot records;
- some school districts require completion of district substitute training which may include a fee, a finger print card and AST background check; and
- State of Alaska Certificate of Authorization, fingerprint cards and money order in the amount of $60 to the School of Education by June 1 (this fee is non-refundable once submitted to the State of Alaska). The UAF School of Education provides these materials which will then be submitted to the State of Alaska for a criminal background check. Fees are subject to change. These materials will be provided to the student.
Professional Field Experiences
The Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure Program includes a comprehensive internship experience in an educational setting. Internship placements are arranged and supervised by university faculty in partnership with the principal and staff from the public school. University course work and classroom practice are closely linked and communication about performance in both the course work and classroom practice is shared among the partners. Internships follow the K-12 school year calendar and not the university academic year calendar.
Performance in the internship must meet stated competencies and individual outcomes. Performance evaluations determine the candidate’s progress toward meeting the State of Alaska Standards for Alaska’s Teacher and the International Society for Technology in Education’s National Education Technology Standards and Performance Indicators for All Teachers and performance guidelines of Specialty Performance Organizations.
It is expected that candidates will demonstrate appropriate professional characteristics with respect to their actions, attitudes and performance. Teacher candidates are required to adhere to the characteristics of professionalism as published in the Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure Handbook, and to abide by the State of Alaska Code of Ethics of the Education Profession. Unacceptable academic performance, an unprofessional attitude, unsatisfactory field reports, violation of professional ethics, or other factors that may result in removal from the field experience and denial of the Institutional Recommendation for teacher certification.
Internship placements are made in partnership with participating school districts, which may request additional information and/or preparation from candidates according to the district’s established policies and practices. Because cooperating districts also determine the number of placements available for candidates, placement may become competitive if the number of applicants exceeds the number of spaces. Districts also reserve the right to refuse or terminate placements when candidates do not meet a minimum standard of performance. Thus, while the University will make every effort to identify appropriate field experiences, admission to the Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure program does not guarantee and internship placement.
Program Requirements
- Complete the following for secondary licensure:
EDSC F402--Methods of Teaching in the Secondary School--3 credits
EDSC F407--Developing Literacy in the Content Areas--3 credits
EDSC F415--Foundations of Modern Educational Practices (3)
or EDSC F205--Introduction to Secondary Education (3)--3 credits
EDSC F614--Learning, Development and Special Needs Instruction (3)
or EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence (3)
EDSC F632--English/Language Arts Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)
or EDSC F633--Mathematics Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)
or EDSC F634--Science Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)
or EDSC F635--Social Studies Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)
or EDSC F636--Art Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)
or EDSC F637--World Language Secondary Instruction and Assessment* (3)--3 credits*
EDSC F642--Technology Applications in Education I--1 credit
EDSC F643--Technology Applications in Education II--2 credits
EDSC F657--Multicultural Education and
School-Community Relations--4 credits
EDSC F658--Classroom Organization and Management--3 credits
EDSC F471--Secondary Teaching: School Internship I and Seminar--3 credits
EDSC F472--Secondary Teaching: School Internship II and Seminar--3-9 credits - Minimum credits required--31-37 credits
* Candidates must take the section or course that corresponds with their major teaching content areas.
Special Education K-12 Postbaccalaureate Certificate of Completion
Prepares K-12 special educators at the graduate level with specific training in the areas of disabilities, assessment, interventions strategies, current law and the implementation of programs including development of legally defensible federal IDEA documents.
Graduates will have mastery of the Council for Exceptional Children standards for special education teachers: learner development and individual learning differences, learning environments, curricular content knowledge, assessment, instructional planning and strategies, professional learning and ethical practice and collaboration. The program will provide individuals who already possess, or are eligible for, a current Alaska teaching certificate or a bachelor’s degree and the necessary prerequisites, with specific training in the area of special education. The program prepares K-12 special education teachers who can effectively understand state and national education issues and respond appropriately. Special education candidates will progress through a series of developmentally sequenced field experiences for all ages, types and levels of abilities, including collaborative opportunities.
The program provides development in collaboration/consultation models and program development in multicultural settings. Completion of this program meets requirements for Alaska licensure as a K-12 special education teacher.
Program Requirements for Certified Teachers
- Complete the following admission requirements:
- Admission requirements for the graduate program.
- Current teaching certificate or equivalent course work towards an Alaska teaching certificate.
- Prerequisite: EDSE F482--Inclusive Classroom for All Children or comparable transfer course from another institution--3 credits
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete the following:
EDSE F610--Assessment of Students with Disabilities--3 credits
EDSE F612--Curriculum, Management and Strategies I: Low Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F625--Teaching Mathematics to Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F632--Special Education Law: Principles and Practices--3 credits
EDSE F677--English Language Arts Assessment, Curriculum and Strategies for Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F680--Special Education Clinical Practice*+--3 credits - Complete one of the following electives:
EDSE F605--Early Childhood Special Education--3 credits
EDSE F624--Social/Emotional Development, Assessment and Intervention--3 credits
EDSE F633--Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities: Communication and Social Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F640--Collaboration and Consultative Methods--3 credits
EDSE F642--Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities: Sensory and Behavioral Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F648--FASD: Diagnosis, Intervention and Strategies--33 credits - Minimum credits required--24 credits
* Additional fee required. Charges are added to fee statements every semester.
+ Students pursuing a K-12 Special Education certificate must complete clinical practice in a public school setting.
Program Requirements for Initial Certification
- Complete the following admission requirements:
- Admission requirements for the graduate program.
- Baccalaureate degree along with the following prerequisites:
- Documented recent experience (minimum 12 hours) in an educational setting with children experiencing disabilities.
- UAF prerequisite courses or comparable transfer courses:
ED F245--Child Development--3 credits
ED F201--Introduction to Education (3)
or EDSC F205--Introduction to Secondary Education (3)
or EDSC F415--Foundations of Modern Educational Practice (3)
or ED F624--Foundations of Education in Alaska: from Segregation to Standards (3)--3 credits
EDSE F482--Inclusive Classroom for all Children--3 credits - An Alaska studies course approved by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. See http://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/.
- A multicultural education/cross-cultural communication course approved by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. See http://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/.
- Passing scores on the Praxis Academic Skills for Educators (or Praxis I) or another test acceptable to the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development before or during the first semester of classes. Current test numbers and minimum scores can be found at www.eed.state.ak.us/teacherscertification/prof.html.
- Passing scores on the appropriate Praxis II Exam(s) required before entering EDSE F678--Special Education Clinical Practice: Initial. Current test numbers and minimum scores can be found at www.eed.state.ak.us/teacherscertification/prof.html. Candidates should consult the employing school district to determine preferred tests based on teaching assignment.
- All prerequisite courses must be completed with a minimum final grade of B. Once the admission requirements, prerequisite courses and testing requirements have been met, applicants will be formally admitted to the program.
- Complete the general university requirements.
- All students not possessing a current Alaska teacher certificate are required to take 6 credits of clinical practice. Clinical practice courses are taken the last two semesters of the program. To enter the clinical practice, students must apply for authorization from the State of Alaska. This includes fingerprinting and a background check. Fingerprint clearance may take up to six months to complete. Submit the clinical practice application two semesters prior to the desired placement. Failure to comply with the requirement, falsification of information, or evidence of a criminal conviction that is named in the law or the Professional Teaching Practices Commission is considered an ethics violation. This will result in denied access to field placement in Alaska school districts. Authorization is required before clinical practice can begin.
- Complete the following:
EDSE F610--Assessment of Students with Disabilities--3 credits
EDSE F612--Curriculum, Management and Strategies I: Low Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F625--Teaching Mathematics to Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F632--Special Education Law: Principles and Practices--3 credits
EDSE F677--English Language Arts Assessment, Curriculum and Strategies for Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F678--Special Education Clinical Practice: Initial--3 credits
EDSE F680--Special Education Clinical Practice*+--3 credits - Complete one of the following electives:
EDSE F605--Early Childhood Special Education--3 credits
EDSE F624--Social/Emotional Development, Assessment and Intervention--3 credits
EDSE F633--Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities: Communication and Social Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F640--Collaboration and Consultative Methods--3 credits
EDSE F642--Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities: Sensory and Behavioral Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F648--FASD: Diagnosis, Intervention and Strategies--33 credits - Minimum credits required***--27 credits
* Additional fee required. Charges are added to fee statements every semester.
+ Students pursuing a K-12 Special Education certificate must complete a clinical practice in a public school setting.
The School of Education offers Master of Education degrees in counseling, special education and education. Students in the education major may earn a degree in these areas of specialization: cross-cultural education, curriculum and instruction, language and literacy, and online innovation and design. Students completing postbaccalaureate certification in elementary or secondary education may earn an M.Ed. in the respective area. For elementary education, secondary education, special education and counseling majors, refer to specific admission and program requirements listed in the respective sections of the catalog.
Admission requirements
Applications will be reviewed on March 1 and Oct. 1 for admission in the following semester. Faculty may vote to admit, not admit or admit with stipulations. Stipulations are specified when additional development in particular areas is needed before beginning a graduate degree program.*
Minimum requirements for admission to the M.Ed. program are:
- Bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 GPA.
- One year of satisfactory teaching or administrative experience. Alternative experience may be accepted.
Complete the following application procedures for the UAF Graduate School:
- Submit a graduate application form to the UAF Office of Admissions.
- Submit scores on the general GRE if undergraduate GPA is below 3.0. Submit a four-five page essay which describes your career goals and educational philosophy, and how those goals and philosophy are relevant to the School of Education’s mission and education graduate degree program.
- Submit official transcripts.
- Submit three letters of reference.
- Submit a resume.
Master of Education in Counseling
Students may earn an M.Ed. degree in counseling with specialization in school or community counseling. Refer to the counseling program section of this catalog for more information.
Master of Education in Cross-Cultural Education
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admission requirements for the Master of Education Degree.
- Complete the following:
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F682--Rethinking Multicultural Education--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project (6)
or ED F699--Thesis (6)--6 credits - Complete one of the following cross-cultural foundations with Focus on Alaska Context Courses:
ED/CCS F610--Education and Cultural Processes--3 credits
ED/CCS F611--Culture, Cognition and Knowledge Acquisition--3 credits
ED/CCS F616--Education and Socioeconomic Change--3 credits
ED F620--Language, Literacy and Learning--3 credits
ED/CCS F631--Culture, Community and Curriculum--3 credits - Complete at least 12 credits of approved electives in cross-cultural education in consultation with the student’s graduate advisory committee--12 credits
- Minimum credits required--30 credits
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admissions requirements for the Master of Education degree.
- Complete the following:
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge(3)--3 credits
ED F612--Foundations of Education--3 credits
ED F630--Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F659--Multimedia Tools for Educators--3 credits
ED F686--Assessment and Testing in K-12 School--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project (6)
or ED F699--Thesis (6)--6 credits - Complete one of the following cross-cultural foundations with focus on Alaska context courses:
ED/CCS F610--Education and Cultural Processes--3 credits
ED/CCS F611--Culture, Cognition and Knowledge Acquisition--3 credits
ED/CCS F616--Education and Socioeconomic Change--3 credits
ED F620--Language, Literacy and Learning--3 credits
ED/CCS F631--Culture, Community and Curriculum--3 credits
ED F682--Rethinking Multicultural Education--3 credits - Complete one F600-level education elective course--3 credits
- Minimum credits required--30 credits
Master of Education in Elementary Education
Following completion of the year-long UAF, postbaccalaureate elementary licensure program, students can pursue a M.Ed. degree in elementary education if they choose to do so. Fifteen specified graduate credits from the elementary licensure program can be used to meet the M.Ed. elementary education requirements. Courses are available through UAF by distance delivery and on the Fairbanks campus. Students can enroll in courses throughout the year. Licensure and the master’s degree requirements must be met within seven years of the beginning of the program.
Students who have completed undergraduate courses 110, 201, 330, 410 and EDSE F316 as part of their licensure program must complete additional graduate level course work to receive a master’s degree. Please contact the School of Education Student Services Office for additional information.
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admission requirements for the graduate-level elementary postbaccalaureate licensure program.
- Complete the following:
ED F624--Foundations of Education in Alaska: From Segregation to Standards--3 credits
ED F625--Exceptional Learners and Child Development: Individual and Cultural Characteristics--3 credits
ED F626--Teaching Reading, Writing, and Language Arts--3 credits
ED F678--Mathematics Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F688--Science Methods and Curriculum Development--3 credits
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)--3 credits
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project (6)
or ED F699--Thesis (6)--6 credits - Complete one graduate-level elective course approved by candidate’s graduate committee--3 credits
- Minimum credits required--30 credits
Master of Education in Language and Literacy
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admission requirements for the Master of Education degree.
- Complete the following:
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
LING F602--Second Language Acquisition--3 credits
LING F610--Theory and Methods of Second Language Learning--3 credits
ED F620--Language, Literacy and Learning--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project (6)
or ED F699--Thesis (6)--6 credits - Complete one of the following cross-cultural foundations with Focus on Alaska Context Courses:
ED/CCS F610--Education and Cultural Processes--3 credits
ED/CCS F611--Culture, Cognition and Knowledge Acquisition--3 credits
ED/CCS F616--Education and Socioeconomic Change--3 credits
ED/CCS F631--Culture, Community and Curriculum--3 credits
ED F682--Rethinking Multicultural Education--3 credits - Complete two F600-level education elective course--6 credits
- Minimum credits required--30 credits
Master of Education in Online Innovation and Design
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admission requirements for the Master of Education degree.
- Complete the following:
ED F431--Web 2.0 Fundamentals--3 credits
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED F650--Current Topics in Educational Technology: Innovative Instruction and Leadership--3 credits
ED F654--Digital Citizenship, Internet Legal Issues, Digital Copyright and Fair Use--3 credits
ED F659--Multimedia Tools for Educators--3 credits - Complete one of the following cross-cultural foundations with focus on Alaska context courses:
ED/CCS F610--Education and Cultural Processes--3 credits
ED/CCS F611--Culture, Cognition and Knowledge Acquisition--3 credits
ED/CCS F616--Education and Socioeconomic Change--3 credits
ED F620--Language, Literacy and Learning--3 credits
ED/CCS F631--Culture, Community and Curriculum--3 credits
ED F682--Rethinking Multicultural Education--3 credits - Complete the following for the thesis option:
One F600-level Online Innovation and Design Elective (3)
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documentation Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F699--Thesis--6 credits - Complete the following for the project option:
One F600-level Online Innovation and Design Elective (3)
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documentation Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project--6 credits - Complete the following classes or comparable electives approved by the student’s graduate advisory committee for the comprehensive exam option:
ED F653--Instructional Design--3 credits
ED F655--Online Pedagogy--3 credits
ED F676--Supporting Learning in Diverse Systems--3 credits
ED F677--Digital Storytelling--3 credits
Complete the comprehensive examination--0 credit - Minimum credits required--30 credits
Master of Education in Secondary Education
Following the completion of the year-long UAF secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program, students can pursue an M.Ed. degree in secondary education.
This program is designed to expand the preparation and instructional practices of middle and secondary educators and education professionals. Fifteen graduate-level credits from the UAF Secondary Postbaccalaureate Licensure program may be applied toward the M.Ed. in secondary education program. Courses are available through UAF by distance-delivery and on the Fairbanks campus. Master’s degree requirements must be met within seven years of beginning the program.
Program Requirements
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete the M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the admission requirements for the graduate-level secondary postbaccalaureate licensure program.
- Complete the following:
EDSC F402--Methods of Teaching in the Secondary School (3)
or one elective course approved by candidate’s graduate committee (3)--3 credits
EDSC F614--Learning, Development and Special Needs Instructions (3)
or EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence (3)--3 credits
EDSC F631--Secondary Instruction and Assessment in the Content Area (3)
or EDSC F632--English/Language Arts Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)
or EDSC F633--Mathematics Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)
or EDSC F634--Science Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)
or EDSC F635--Social Studies Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)
or EDSC F636--Art Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)
or EDSC F637--World Language Secondary Instruction and Assessment (3)--3 credits
EDSC F642--Teaching with Technology I--1 credit
EDSC F643--Technology Applications in Education II--2 credits
EDSC F657--Multicultural Education and School-Community Relations--4 credits
EDSC F658--Classroom Organization and Management--3 credits
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits - Complete the following for the thesis option:
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F699--Thesis--6 credits - Complete the following for the Project option:
ED/CCS F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits
ED F698--Non-thesis Research/Project--6 credits - Complete the following for the Comprehensive Exam option:
EDSC F407--Developing Literacy in the Content Areas (3)
or one elective course approved by candidate’s graduate committee (3)--3 credits
Six graduate-level elective credits approved by candidate’s graduate committee--6 credits
Comprehensive Examination - Minimum credits required--31 credits
Master of Education in Special Education
Prepares K-12 special educators at the graduate level with specific training in the areas of disabilities, assessment, interventions strategies, current law and the implementation of programs including development of legally defensible federal IDEA documents.
Graduates will have mastery of the Council for Exceptional Children standards for special education teachers: learner development and individual learning differences, learning environments, curricular content knowledge, assessment, instructional planning and strategies, professional learning and ethical practice and collaboration.
The program will provide individuals who already possess, or are eligible for, a current Alaska teaching certificate or a bachelor’s degree and the necessary prerequisites with specific training in the area of special education. The program prepares K-12 special education teachers who can effectively understand state and national education issues and respond appropriately. Special education candidates will progress through a series of developmentally sequenced field experiences for all ages, types and levels of abilities including collaborative opportunities.
The Master of Education in Special Education provides development in collaboration/consultation models and program development in multicultural settings. Completion of this program meets requirements for Alaska licensure as a K-12 special education teacher.
Program Requirements for Certified Teachers
- Complete the following admission requirements:
- Admission requirements for the graduate program.
- Current Alaska teaching certificate or equivalent course work towards an Alaska teaching certificate.
- Prerequisite: EDSE F482--Inclusive Classroom for All Children or comparable transfer course from another institution--3 credits
- Complete general university requirements.
- Complete the M.Ed. degree requirements.
- Complete the following:
EDSE F610--Assessment of Students with Disabilities--3 credits
EDSE F612--Curriculum, Management and Strategies I: Low Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F625--Teaching Mathematics to Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F632--Special Education Law: Principles and Practices--3 credits
EDSE F677--English Language Arts Assessment, Curriculum and Strategies for Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F680--Special Education Clinical Practice*+--3 credits - Complete three of the following elective courses as approved by the candidate’s graduate committee:
EDSE F605--Early Childhood Special Education--3 credits
EDSE F624--Social/Emotional Development, Assessment and Intervention--3 credits
EDSE F633--Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities: Communication and Social Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F640--Collaboration and Consultative Methods--3 credits
EDSE F642--Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities: Sensory and Behavioral Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F648--FASD: Diagnosis, Intervention and Strategies--3 credits - Complete the following:
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits - Complete comprehensive examination.**
- Minimum credits required 36 credits
* Additional fee required. Charges are added to fee statements every semester.
+ Students pursuing a K-12 Special Education certificate must complete clinical practice in a public school setting
** Must be enrolled in 3 graduate credits the semester the comprehensive exam is completed.
Program Requirements for Initial Certification
- Complete the following admission requirements:
- Admission requirements for the graduate program.
- Baccalaureate degree along with the following prerequisites:
- Documented recent experience (minimum of 12 hours) in an educational setting with children experiencing disabilities.
- UAF prerequisite course or comparable transfer courses:
ED F245--Child Development--3 credits
ED F201 Introduction to Education (3)
or EDSC F205--Introduction to Secondary Education (3)
or EDSC F415--Foundations of Modern Educational Practice (3)
or ED F624--Foundations of Education in Alaska: From Segregation to Standards (3)--3 credits
EDSE F482--Inclusive Classrooms for All Children--3 credits - An Alaska studies course approved by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. See http://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/.
- A multicultural education/cross-cultural communication course approved by the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. See http://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/.
- Passing scores on the Praxis Academic Skills for Educators text (or Praxis I) or another test acceptable to the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development before or during the first semester of classes. Current test numbers and minimum scores can be found at www.eed.state.ak.us/teacherscertification/prof.html.
- Passing scores on the appropriate Praxis II Exam(s) required before entering EDSE F678--Special Education Clinical Practice: Initial. Current test numbers and minimum scores can be found at www.eed.state.ak.us/teacherscertification/prof.html. Candidates should consult the employing school district to determine preferred tests based on teaching assignment.
- All prerequisite courses must be completed with a minimum final grade of B. Once the admission requirements, prerequisite courses and testing requirements have been met, applicants will be formally admitted to the program.
- Complete the general university requirements.
- Complete the M.Ed. degree requirements
- All students not possessing a current Alaska teacher certificate are required to take 6 credits of clinical practice. Clinical practice courses are taken the last two semesters of the program. To enter the clinical practice, students must apply for authorization from the State of Alaska. This includes fingerprinting and a background check. Fingerprint clearance may take up to six months to complete. Submit the clinical practice application two semesters prior to the desired placement. Failure to comply with the requirement, falsification of information, or evidence of a criminal conviction that is named in the law or the Professional Teaching Practices Commission is considered an ethics violation. This will result in denied access to field placement in Alaska school districts. Authorization is required before clinical practice can begin.
- Complete the following:
EDSE F610--Assessment of Students with Disabilities--3 credits
EDSE F612--Curriculum, Management and Strategies I: Low Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F622--Curriculum, Management and Strategies II: High Incidence--3 credits
EDSE F625--Teaching Mathematics to Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F632--Special Education Law: Principles and Practices--3 credits
EDSE F677--English Language Arts Assessment, Curriculum and Strategies for Special Learners--3 credits
EDSE F678--Special Education Clinical Practice: Initial--3 credits
EDSE F680--Special Education Clinical Practice*+--3 credits - Complete three of the following elective courses as approved by the candidate’s graduate committee:
EDSE F605--Early Childhood Special Education--3 credits
EDSE F624--Social/Emotional Development, Assessment and Intervention--3 credits
EDSE F633--Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities:
Communication and Social Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F640--Collaboration and Consultative Methods--3 credits
EDSE F642--Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities: Sensory and Behavioral Interventions--3 credits
EDSE F648--FASD: Diagnosis, Intervention and Strategies--3 credits - Complete the following courses:
ED F601--Introduction to Applied Social Science Research--3 credits
ED F603--Field Study Research Methods (3)
or ED/CCS F604--Documenting Indigenous Knowledge (3)--3 credits - Complete comprehensive examination**
- Minimum credits required--39 credits
* Additional fee required. Charges are added to fee statements every semester.
+ Students pursuing a K-12 Special Education certificate must complete clinical practice in a public school setting.
** Must be enrolled in 3 graduate credits the semester the comprehensive exam is completed.
Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Degree
Students wishing to further their education beyond a Master of Education degree may pursue an interdisciplinary Ph.D. degree. For more information, refer to the program section on interdisciplinary studies -- Ph.D. degree.