1. Is this a teacher licensure program? Can I teach in the public school system when I graduate from your program?
The program does NOT culminate in a teaching license and will not enable you to teach in public schools in Oregon and other US states. Recommendation for teacher licensure requires taking a program approved for that purpose by the state and includes lengthy practica in a classroom and successful completion of competency tests. You may be able to use some credits from our Master's program towards an endorsement if you currently hold a teaching license. Those seeking a teaching license should apply to the PSU Graduate Teacher Education Program (GTEP) that offers a teaching license (elementary) and a Master of Education (MEd) degree OR to the Master’s in Early Intervention/Licensure program in the Special Education Department.
2. Do I need to take courses in any special sequence?
Individual students enter the program in any quarter of the year and begin to take courses as needed. The only exception is that we ask you to take the Action Research sequence of 2 classes during your second or final year in the program. This is a culminating project in which you explore an issue of interest in your own practice. Speak to your ECE advisor for more information about such matters. We do encourage you to take the ITMH specialization in sequence.
3. Can I use all my credits from another institution? Is there a restriction?
There is a limit of 15 graduate transfer credits, including PSU credits taken before admission to the master's program. Not all transfer credits are acceptable. Typically we only approve up to 9 credits as electives. Your advisor determines recommendation of transfer credits with final approval coming from the Graduate School. This process can take a while. Please work on transfer credits early in your program to plan your program and avoid delays in completion. All transfer credits must show a grade of B or higher. Pass/No Pass courses are not acceptable.
4. How can I check whether I am meeting all graduation requirements?
You have access to the PSU Degree Auditing Reporting System (DARS). You can run a report at anytime and check with your advisor if there is anything you don't understand. Transfer credits and approved substitutions by your advisor may take some time to show in your DARS.
5. Is there a time limit to complete work for my master's degree?
You are allowed 7 years in order to complete the required coursework. Coursework older than 7 years will not count toward your degree. Any courses transferred from another institution must also be within 7 years of your graduation date.
6. How do I apply for graduation?
It is your responsibility to submit an Application to Graduate (and pay the fee) by the end of the first week of your final term. We suggest doing this as soon as you have registered for courses in your final term. This application is different from registering to participate in any Commencement/Graduation ceremonies.
7. What about electives - how do I know what's acceptable?
Electives are usually chosen with the help of your advisor. Most graduate level courses offered by our program (500 & above), including all specialization courses, are good choices. You can also seek approval to take a graduate course from another program or department. HOWEVER, there are certain exceptions: No 808 (workshop) courses are acceptable for a master's degree, and only 6 credits of 810 (professional development/in-service) credits may be used.
8. What's the difference between the MA & MS? I already have a BA, so doesn't that mean I'd be getting an MA?
The only difference between MA (Master of Arts) and MS (Master of Science) is that an MA degree requires a second language exam, given by the PSU Department of World Languages and Literature, or a waiver showing demonstrated proof of fluency in another language prior to graduation. No online language courses are offered in the program. See Second Language Requirement: