![Photo of a student working with a child in a classroom.](/education/sites/g/files/ijdqth211/files/styles/4_3_l/public/2023-03/Student_elementary_education_class.jpg?h=67eabc4d&itok=I63lwQlk)
Elementary Education
The Collaborative Teacher Education Pathway (CTEP) has two options for students, each providing a small cohort allowing for mutual support and close relationships with faculty. Students learn best practices in education from faculty engaged in cutting-edge research. The coursework is rooted in the constructivist theory of knowledge and learning, which sees learning as an active, constructive process, multicultural and social justice education, and engaged problem solving and reflection. Students also complete an immersive urban and suburban/rural practicum, spending three full days in the classroom in the fall and five full days in the spring.
- 4+1 program: The 4+1 option is designed for UMass undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing elementary licensure at the graduate level. This option allows potential students to apply to CTEP in their junior year and complete up to 9 credits of coursework toward their master's degree as an undergraduate.
- 10-month M.Ed. program: The 10-month full-time program blends intensive academic study with carefully supervised field experiences. It is designed as a fifth year for students from other institutions or career changers.