ETSS Curriculum

The ETSS-MA requires 47 credits of graduate coursework. 

The curriculum for this program is divided into four primary categories of courses: 

For the terminal experience, students will complete one for the following:

 SOCED-GE 2140 Social Studies and History Workshop

Project-based research course that integrates educational research with social studies classroom practice. Aims to broaden students' understanding of what constitutes appropriate data for scholarly inquiry. Focusing on particular research methods and drawing from the rich offerings of New York City's various collections, students will explore strategies for locating, analyzing, and incorporating a broad array of sources into their doing, writing, and teaching of history and social studies. Also includes exploration of economics, in the contemporary world and historically. Offers models and approaches for conducting research in and on social studies classrooms.

OR

Students complete a Culminating Experience, consisting of a research project that incorporates reflective practitioner methodology, integrating educational theory and theatre practice which is grounded in the student’s experience in the student teaching practicum, MPAET-GE 2134. Additionally, students will develop a semester-long curriculum for a drama/theatre classroom, taking into consideration the New York State Learning Standards in Theatre and the New York City Blueprint for Teaching and Learning in Theatre Arts.

Most courses are selected in consultation with the academic advisor building towards the culminating experience, which is your final capstone experience in the program which must be fulfilled with a 3-credit course, independent study, or practicum. 

A full time student will complete 12 credits of coursework each semester which may or may not include the summer session. Our summer session offers a few courses that are only offered at that time; as such, many students elect to avail themselves of these unique opportunities for concentrated study.  

A part time student will complete 4.5-8 credits of coursework each semester which may or may not include the summer session—though most part time students complete 6 credits per semester. 

Sample programs of study for full and part time study are available on the following page. 

Notes:

Note, all international students who have not completed a previous degree at NYU are recommended to take SAHS-GE 2003 New Graduate Student Seminar for International Students, a 0 credit extended orientation experience during their first semester of study at NYU Steinhardt. Students should direct any questions about the New Graduate Student Seminar to Nick Voelker.

To be recommended for certification to teach Theatre, All Grades and Social Studies 7-12, candidates must have completed a minimum of 30 credits in Educational Theatre and a minimum of 30 credits in Social Studies.

Minimum GPA

Students in this program must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a term GPA of 2.5.

Minimum Grades

Effective Fall 2025, students must obtain a B- or better in MPAET-GE 2134, SOCED-GED 2911, and SOCED-GED 2922 to count toward their degree progress. These courses can be attempted a maximum of two times. Attempts include C+ or lower in MPAET-GE 2134, SOCED-GED 2911, and SOCED-GED 2922 final grades as well as course withdrawals; term withdrawals/leaves of absence do not factor into the number of attempts. 


Students who obtain a C+ or lower in MPAET-GE 2134, SOCED-GED 2911, and SOCED-GED 2922 will be reviewed by the Committee on Student Progress for Notice of Academic Alert or Notice of Academic Concern. Students who are not able to complete and pass MPAET-GE 2134, SOCED-GED 2911, and SOCED-GED 2922 with a B- after two attempts will be reviewed by the Committee on Student Progress for Notice of Academic Concern or dismissal.