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Elementary Teacher (1-6, initial licensure)
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Grade Levels:
1-6
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Credits for Licensure:
32-35
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Credits:
30
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Degree:
Master of Education
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Program Approved:
Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary & Secondary Education
Program Description
The Elementary Teacher (1-6, Initial Licensure) program is designed for students who plan to teach in public elementary schools or collaboratives. Graduates will be prepared with the specialized skills and knowledge to pursue initial licensure as elementary teachers, grades 1-6, in Massachusetts. The program leads to a Master of Education degree and is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Cambridge College Elementary Teacher Program Highlights
Prepare for rewarding careers teaching elementary school students. Grades 1-6 are among the most formative years in a young student’s education, and our program prepares you for the real-world demands of the elementary school classroom. Benefits of the Cambridge College master’s in elementary teaching include:
- Hands-on training. Take part in a 14-week supervised field experience and a supporting practicum seminar class (for students in Massachusetts seeking licensure) as part of your elementary teacher schooling.
- Flexible class options. Pursue your elementary teacher master’s degree while balancing time at work and home with convenient evening, weekend, and online course options designed for working professionals.
- Experienced faculty. Learn directly from scholar practitioners who bring extensive research experience and professional expertise to the classroom.
- Convenient location. Save time and money commuting to college. All Cambridge College classroom locations are close to public transportation and/or offer free student parking throughout the year.
Cambridge College welcomes more than 300 students from 50+ countries and was recently ranked #7 for Most Ethnically Diverse Colleges in America by Best College Reviews.
Elementary Teacher Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the elementary teacher program are career ready, technologically savvy, and equipped to work with diverse students and advance social justice. Skills developed through the curriculum include:
- Using best practices for teaching students with diverse abilities and languages and scientifically based practices for teaching reading and mathematics.
- Applying inclusive practices to create a safe and collaborative learning environment that fosters positive socio-emotional development.
- Setting high expectations for elementary students, implementing well-structured lessons with measurable assessments of learning, and engaging in ongoing reflection on practice.
Elementary Teacher Jobs
Graduates who have completed the licensure option are able to apply for initial licensure and are qualified for employment in public schools and collaboratives, teaching elementary grades 1-6.
Elementary Teacher Salary
How much do elementary teachers make? Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for elementary teachers in Massachusetts is $76,590 per year. Keep in mind that your teaching salary will vary based on your experience and the region in which you work.
Example Elementary Teacher Courses
The Elementary Teacher master’s degree program at Cambridge College features classes such as:
- Classroom Management With Models of Teaching
- Integration of Children’s Literature in Early Childhood and Elementary Curriculum
- Common Core Math
Download the Elementary Teacher program sheet.
Elementary Teacher Scholarships and Financial Aid
You may qualify for grants, scholarships, loans, and other types of financial assistance to help pay for your elementary teaching master’s degree. Learn more about applying for financial aid at Cambridge College.
Many companies also offer tuition assistance programs that can help to pay for education. Find information about getting your company to help.
Related Programs at Cambridge College
If you’re still exploring degree options, you might be interested in learning more about these Master of Education programs at Cambridge College:
Curriculum
Please note: At Cambridge College locations outside of Massachusetts, this program is currently non-licensure only.
Elementary Courses
27
Credits
Program Portfolio Integration
EED 735
Students are required to enroll in this 0-credit course during the first semester of their program experience. Enrollment in this 0-credit course activates student access to the Tevera portfolio which facilities the tracking and storage of essential documents required for program completion.
The Reflective Practitioner
EED 5001 • 1 credit(s)
Reflective practice is a process of self-evaluation and analysis that allows teachers to reflect on their teaching practices, identify areas for improvement, and make adjustment to their practice to better support student learning. In this 1-credit course, graduate students will learn to identify their own strengths and challenges, set goals for themselves and their students, evaluate curriculum materials, generate potential solutions to problems of practice, and explore tools and technology to support their reflective practice.
Teaching Phonological and Phonemic Awareness and Phonics
ELE 500
This course is a prerequisite for ELE521. This course will emphasize the development of children’s phonemic awareness, phonological awareness and phonics skills and the learning environment that supports the development of such skills. It will also cover concepts of print, explicit/implicit instruction, analytic/synthetic methods, word analysis skills, the alphabetic principle, and language development.
Teaching Science, Engineering, and Technology
ELE 653 • 3 credit(s)
This course provides the knowledge, tools and methods for making early childhood and elementary science an exciting, hands-on learning experience for children. Educators learn how to develop lessons that address student experimentation and design techniques using readily available materials. Safe laboratory practices for the classroom are also addressed. A standards-based approach to science education is our template for lesson development, covering the major domains in science: life, physical, earth, inquiry-applied and engineering technology; and historical scientific discoveries in each area. Alignment of curriculum is emphasized; national benchmark standards in elementary science are also supported. Analysis of elementary summative science assessments, based on the National Science Standards is incorporated in the coursework. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Developmental Psychology
ELE 510 • 3 credit(s)
This course explores basic theories and concepts in cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development from childhood to adolescence; and the characteristics and instructional implications of moderately and severely disabling conditions. These theories are then applied to instruction, with emphasis on Piaget’s theory of cognitive development. Students explore multiple theories of intelligence and learning, and strategies for a curriculum reflecting the diverse intellectual needs of children as learners. The stages and characteristics of child development are introduced and students apply this knowledge to the classroom through the use of integrated curriculum. Participants investigate methods of systematic observations and recording of child behavior in light of child development theories, and utilize this information in their planning and implementation of instruction. Formulation of a developmentally appropriate Individual Educational Plan is required. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Teaching Social Sciences, History, and Multicultural Education
ELE 656 • 3 credit(s)
This course prepares candidates to teach social studies that includes the multicultural contributions of the world. They gain a basis for researching issues in social studies and history that give their students more universal perspectives. The materials chosen are appropriate to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks/Common Core Standards in history and social studies. Educators will gain the basic information and know the principles for teaching social sciences, history and geography as outlined in the Massachusetts regulations for educator licensure. Candidates produce and implement well-structured lessons that center of core disciplinary ideas in the K-12 social studies curriculum, utilize primary source materials, and reflect knowledge of formative assessment, differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and the role of academic feedback, and questioning to support higher-order thinking. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Teaching Children's Literature
ELE 620 • 3 credit(s)
This course introduces some of the best literature—children’s, young adult, adult and contemporary—and helps children become lifelong learners and readers. Students gain knowledge of the Massachusetts English Language Arts Curriculum Frameworks/Common Core Standards. Many genres of literature are explored, along with basic literacy elements and techniques including the necessary basics of the English language with emphasis on correct grammar, usage and composition. Lesson plans and models for teaching literature are presented. Candidates implement well-structured lessons that reflect knowledge of the essential elements of scientifically-based reading instruction, formative assessment, differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and the role of academic feedback, and questioning to support higher-order thinking. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Dev Reading and Writing Skills for Early Childhood and Elementary Curr
ELE 521 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisite: ELE500. This course emphasizes the development of children’s reading and writing skills in the primary to upper elementary grades and the learning environment that supports the development of such skills. The relationships between the theories and current research on emergent literacy, oral language, vocabulary development, comprehension, the reading and writing process and assessment will be reviewed and analyzed by the members of this course. In addition, participants will review and discuss the following topics: scientifically-based reading instruction, whole language, balanced literacy, effective teaching strategies, use of research-based programs, literature-based instruction, use of different assessment tools to inform instruction, standard-based instruction, federal funding, culture and democracy. Candidates implement well-structured lessons that reflect knowledge of the essential elements of scientifically-based reading instruction, formative assessment, differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and the role of academic feedback, and questioning to support higher-order thinking. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Common Core Math
MAT 623 • 3 credit(s)
Course will address all Massachusetts Common Core State Standards in Mathematics.
Teaching Physical Education and Movement
ELE 594 • 1 credit(s)
This course provides a thorough examination of current research and best practices concerning physical education and movement in early childhood and elementary classrooms. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of physical education and movement for young students and how they can be integrated with other academic subjects to enhance the overall development and well-being of students.
Integration of Visual Arts for the Early Childhood & Elementary Curr.
ELE 593 • 1 credit(s)
The Arts enable teachers to better engage their students while also addressing student’s different learning styles and allowing student creativity to flourish. This course will give participants an introduction to using the visual arts as a vehicle for learning in the classroom. Teachers will learn ways to use the arts and art materials as a pathway toward gaining knowledge and using higher order thinking skills. Presentation of material will be part reading, part lecture and part hands on participation and exploration. Students will leave the course with a deeper understanding of art materials, art language and how to use visual arts in the early childhood and elementary classroom that includes special needs and ESL students.
Inclusion in Math Class
MAT 700 • 3 credit(s)
This course promotes collaboration between mathematics and special educators to improve instruction and outcomes for all students, including students with disabilities. This course provides a structure for developing shared visions, common language, foundational knowledge of mathematics instruction, and the instructional needs of math students with disabilities. The Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks serve as a foundation for high quality core curriculum and instruction addressing conceptual understandings and practices that are an essential part of rigorous math expectations.
Inclusion and Classroom Behavior Management
ESP 512 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on the knowledge of the etiology of learning problems and specific techniques to effectively create an inclusive classroom. Emphasis is on classroom management and the management of challenging behaviors in an inclusion classroom.
Practicum Prerequisites
1-4
Credits
- Pass all teacher tests required by Massachusetts for this license: Communication & Literacy, General Curriculum, math sub-test, and Foundations of Reading (MTEL).
- SEI605 Sheltered English Immersion (3 credits) or Mass. ESE-endorsed course or SEI MTEL.
- Pass all required courses.
- Pre-Practicum — Successfully complete program-specific hours in diverse settings (0 credit)
- EDU704 Practicum Readiness (1 credit)
- Submit Practicum Application and Practicum Placement Approval Form.
SEI (Sheltered English Immersion) Content License Endorsement Course
SEI 605 • 3 credit(s)
This Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Content License Endorsement Course is designed for educator licensure candidates in all core academic areas, to prepare them to address the needs, and build on the multilingual and multicultural assets, of a diverse and ever-changing student population in Massachusetts. The course is a key element of the Massachusetts RETELL initiative (Rethinking Equity and Teaching for English Language Learners). RETELL also includes statewide implementation of the WIDA ELD (English Language Development) standards, and the WIDA-ACCESS assessment tools. Participants will be introduced to ELD standard and WIDA tools, and will practice applying research-based SEI instructional strategies as they teach their content to English language learners (ELLs). They will also be introduced to a variety of professional growth opportunities to prepare them to extend their learning by making SEI the focus of professional practice within the new educator evaluation process.
Practicum: Elementary Teacher (1-6)
ELE 794 • 2 credit(s)
A 14-week supervised field experience of a minimum of 300 hours in which candidates demonstrate proficiency in meeting the Professional Standards for Teachers. The practicum must meet the hours and setting requirements for the license sought, under the guidance of a supervising practitioner with the appropriate license, with Cambridge College supervision. Assessment follows the Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP) and assesses ability with respect to: well-structured lessons, high expectations, meeting diverse needs, adjustment to practice, safe learning environment, professional culture/reflective practice, as well as formative assessment, differentiation and providing academic feedback. Artifacts are uploaded into an Exit Portfolio. An Application to Practicum is required.
Practicum Seminar: Elementary Education
ELE 791 • 2 credit(s)
Practicum required concurrently. The seminar, based on the Professional Standards for Teachers in Massachusetts provides opportunities for classroom experience and supports students' growth as they assume the teaching role. Candidates receive feedback on lesson plans, and develop instructional practice by analyzing case studies, engaging in role play and viewing of instructor-selected video tapes that depict examples of practice. Candidates upload required key assessments into an Exit Portfolio in Task Stream.
Practicum Readiness
EDU 704 • 1 credit(s)
This course is specifically designed to determine readiness for the practicum. It will assist the teacher candidate to develop his/her skills to be ready to assume the role of student teacher from the first day of practicum. Students will understand the requirements of CAP by engaging in and completing the forms for each of the "essentials" and completing their own goals. All of the Tevera components, other than the practicum documents, will be completed. MTELs will be completed. Those having difficulty with the MTELs will be directed for support. Fieldwork assignments will be required.
Practicum and Seminar
4
Credits
Licensure students only.
Guided and evaluated by a licensed/certified elementary teacher in the classroom and a Cambridge College elementary supervisor. Practicum locations are subject to ESE regulations and must be discussed with the program chair and approved by the pre-practicum/practicum coordinator.
Practicum: Elementary Teacher (1-6)
ELE 794 • 2 credit(s)
A 14-week supervised field experience of a minimum of 300 hours in which candidates demonstrate proficiency in meeting the Professional Standards for Teachers. The practicum must meet the hours and setting requirements for the license sought, under the guidance of a supervising practitioner with the appropriate license, with Cambridge College supervision. Assessment follows the Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP) and assesses ability with respect to: well-structured lessons, high expectations, meeting diverse needs, adjustment to practice, safe learning environment, professional culture/reflective practice, as well as formative assessment, differentiation and providing academic feedback. Artifacts are uploaded into an Exit Portfolio. An Application to Practicum is required.
Practicum Seminar: Elementary Education
ELE 791 • 2 credit(s)
Practicum required concurrently. The seminar, based on the Professional Standards for Teachers in Massachusetts provides opportunities for classroom experience and supports students' growth as they assume the teaching role. Candidates receive feedback on lesson plans, and develop instructional practice by analyzing case studies, engaging in role play and viewing of instructor-selected video tapes that depict examples of practice. Candidates upload required key assessments into an Exit Portfolio in Task Stream.
Program Chair
Core Faculty
(617) 873-0212sandra.bridwell@cambridgecollege.edu
(617) 873-0849james.horn@cambridgecollege.edu
Senior Instructor
(617) 873-0279Peter.Ash@go.cambridgecollege.edu
(617) 873-0770William.Hoyt@go.cambridgecollege.edu
(617) 873-0347Patricia.Johnson@cambridgecollege.edu
617-873-0292John.Papadonis@cambridgecollege.edu
617-873-0181doris.vangorder@cambridgecollege.edu
Pages
Admissions
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Admission Test:
No standardized graduate school tests required for admission into non-licensure programs.
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Admissions Office:
1-800-829-4723
- Application Form:
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Application Fee:
$50 ($100 for international students; $100 for EdD)
Health Requirements for Massachusetts Students
The Massachusetts Health Department and Cambridge College require the following of students in Massachusetts:
Immunizations – All students in Massachusetts are required to get certain immunizations before you can register for your first term. See form
Health Insurance – In Massachusetts, undergraduate students taking nine or more credits/term and graduate students taking six or more credits/term must enroll in the College’s health insurance plan. Students who have insurance with comparable coverage may request a waiver. See information and enroll or waive.
School Requirements
See Admissions Requirements for School of Education
International Students
International students need to provide supplemental documentation:
- Official demonstration of English language proficiency
- Supplemental documentation for issuance of I-20
- International transcripts, evaluated by an accepted evaluation service
Transfer Credit
Graduate program applicants, please complete the transfer credit request form if you wish to have prior course work evaluated for transfer. Learn more.
Undergraduate program applicants, once you are accepted, your official transcripts are evaluated for transfer credit.
Tuition
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Credits for Licensure:
32-35
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Credits:
30
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Cost per credit hour:
$639
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Application Fee:
$50 ($100 for international students; $100 for EdD)
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Health Insurance Fee:
$3,940 - Required for Massachusetts students only. See waiver details on Tuition & Fees page.
Note: Rates are as of June 2023, and are subject to change without notice. Rates apply to all students unless otherwise noted.
Financial Aid
Cambridge College offers financial aid to students in our degree programs who are enrolled at least half-time. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 6 credits each term. Graduate and doctoral students must be enrolled in at least 4 credits each term. Learn more
Grants, Scholarships, and Loans
Cambridge College welcomes the opportunity to support your efforts to pay for college. Federal, state, and local resources in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study, including Cambridge College Scholarships, are available to help defray the cost of tuition. Learn more
Getting Your Company to Help
Many companies have tuition assistance programs, designed to help their employees with their professional development. Learn more
Take the Next Step Toward Your Elementary Teacher Master's Degree
Take the Next Step Toward Your Elementary Teacher Master's Degree
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Success
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