Childhood and Special Education

This master’s-level teaching program is ideal for individuals without an undergraduate degree in Education. You’ll learn how to effectively teach all students in elementary classrooms and students with disabilities in all grades.

Earn Dual Certification in Elementary and Special Education

Dual certification in elementary (grades 1-6) and special education (all grades) means you will be able to teach all learners, which increases employment options.

You’ll learn how to teach common-branch subjects like reading, writing, science, mathematics, and social studies for students in grades grades 1-6, including those with a wide range of challenges and barriers related to their education.

The Power in Positive Ed

Well-being matters, and today’s students and teachers need the tools to manage today’s world.

That’s why Russell Sage College became the first college in the nation to partner with The Center for Positive Education. Each student in the Esteves School of Education graduates with training in Positive Education, and Russell Sage will extend the training to the greater education community with professional development opportunities.

Learn more

student teacher and elementary students in classroom

Program Distinctions

Russell Sage College offers two student teaching options for Childhood and Special Education master’s degree candidates.

The Classroom Academy: A paid, full-time, two-year residency with an experienced teacher.
Traditional Student Teaching: Two seven-week experiences, one in grades 1-3 and another in grades 4-6. One placement will be in a general education classroom, and the other will be a special education-based experience.

You’ll learn to teach grades 1-6 in a general education classroom and special education in all grades, planning units of study and lesson plans for all students in the class.
You’ll also be ready to work with colleagues including literacy specialists, speech/language teachers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. And as a special educator, you’ll be able to help students with disabilities thrive.
Our faculty have extensive experience teaching general and special education students. You’ll also benefit from the knowledge of local teachers, counselors, and administrators who serve as guest speakers.
If you have initial certification in Childhood Education and wish to add Special Education, please see Sage’s Master of Education in Special Education program or dual master’s degree in Special Education/Literacy Specialist.

Learning Experience and Course Objectives

This master’s degree in education is very interactive, with many connections to local public schools. You’ll participate in practical experiences while also studying theory.

You’ll learn best practices for working with students of varying needs, including gifted students. Learn through foundational knowledge, advanced theories, and supervised practical experiences.

View Program Catalog

Easily Apply

Rolling admission, so apply anytime, and begin in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.

Application Requirements:

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
One letter of recommendation
A one- to two-page career goals essay
Candidates who are interested in the Classroom Academy should apply to the residency program at the same time that they apply to the M.S. program. Learn more and apply at Classroomacademy.org.
GRE scores are not required.

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Personal Advising, Experienced Faculty

Our master’s program comes with a deep, Russell Sage-level of support from an assigned faculty advisor who works with you to ensure your success.

Kelly
Smith

Assistant Professor of Education

Learn more about Kelly

Kelly
Brock, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Education

Learn more about Kelly

“Russell Sage College and the Esteves School of Education act as leaders in education not just in the Capital District, but in New York State.”

Peter Stapleton, Ph.D.,
Assistant Professor of Education

Careers with an Elementary and Special Education Degree

Once you complete your master’s degree, the edTPA and Content Specialty Tests, you’ll meet the requirements for dual certification in elementary and special education.

Dual certification in elementary and special education means you will be able to teach all learners, which increases employment options. Graduates become special education teachers in all grades as well as classroom teachers for grades 1-6. They also pursue other education-related opportunities, such as working for the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.