English Department
Matthew Lessig, chair
Karen Stearns, graduate coordinator
Old Main, Room 112
(607) 753-4307
Fax: (607) 753-5978

Overview

Do you love Shakespeare, Stieg Larsson or Stephenie Meyer? Are you intrigued about examining Diane Ravitch’s educational theories, Doris Kearns Goodwin’s historical perspectives or John Irving’s latest literary masterpiece? Then take the next step to expand on your initial teaching certificate in secondary English. Pursue the master’s degree necessary for permanent teaching certification in New York state by studying for the M.S.Ed in adolescence education: English (7-12) at SUNY Cortland.

Program Highlights

Through advanced course work, you’ll explore all facets of English and the language arts, teaching methods for literature and critical literacy, language development, composition, American literature and British literature, as well as global and multicultural perspectives. If you have not already met the language requirement for a year of college-level study or the equivalent in a language other than English, you may take language courses during your graduate study. Compilation of a required teaching portfolio allows you to document reflective teaching and learning processes.

Small Class, Strong Mentors 

In our small classes, you’ll benefit from the positive mentor relationship and lifelong learning friendships you develop with enthusiastic faculty members who love to teach and actively conduct research. These outstanding professionals invite you into a vibrant intellectual community committed to balancing a well-rounded liberal arts education with exceptional career preparation.

Flexible Completion Options 

As a full-time student taking 12 or more credit hours each semester, you would be able to complete the program in a year and a half. Our flexible scheduling also offers you the option of pursuing the M.S.Ed in adolescence education English (7-12) over multiple years and on a part-time basis.

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the requirements for admission to a degree program stated in this catalog, you should present the following for enrollment in the program leading to a Master of Science in Education in adolescence education: English (7-12):

1. At least a B average in undergraduate English courses.
2. A grade point average of at least 3.0 for all undergraduate courses.
3. One year of college‑level study or the equivalent of a language other than English. If this requirement has not already been met, the candidate may take language courses concurrently with graduate study.
4. Two letters of reference. Letters from undergraduate professors teaching in the subject area identified in number one are required.
5. A minimum of 33 hours of approved undergraduate courses in English, composition or comparative literature.

Apply for the M.S.Ed. in adolescence education: English (7-12).