Core Curriculum
15 - 16 credits
EDU 531 Ethics for Educators
Educators are expected to uphold community norms while at the same time demonstrate exemplary tolerance for differing ethical viewpoints. Students learn how to identify and analyze systems of values, including their own, and how to structure meaningful ethical standards in the educational setting. 2 credits

EDU 551 Critique and Design of Research
Effective educators are able to synthesize current research and develop new knowledge through investigation. To develop their research skills, students study the components of the research process and the methods employed in conducting experimental and descriptive research with application to the field of education. 2 credits

EDU 565 Statistics
Effective educators and administrators must have a basic understanding of the application of statistical concepts and procedures. Students develop an understanding of the descriptive and inferential statistics utilized in educational research for the purpose of statistically analyzing and interpreting research findings. 3 credits

EDU 567 Multicultural Education: Theory and Practice
Educators must be respectful of the needs of all learners. This course examines ethnic, cultural, economic, and other types of diversity in the classroom. It fosters attitudes and teaching strategies that meet the needs of diverse students, families, and communities. 2 credits

EDU 608 Foundations, Issues, and Trends in Education
Effective educators must have knowledge about the philosophical foundations of American education and the current issues and trends influencing education. Students examine the foundations of education and the issues and trends currently affecting teaching and student learning. Emphasis is placed on the development of a research project that critically examines the effect of current educational issues and trends on teaching in America's schools. 2 credits

Thesis Options
EDU 700 - Research Seminar I
Research seminars guide students through thesis research and writing. 1 credit

EDU 701 - Research Seminar II
Research seminars guide students through thesis research and writing. 1 credit

EDU 704 - Thesis Presentation
Students present research to faculty and guests upon completion of their research and writing. 4 credits

Portfolio Options
EDU 705 Portfolio Preparation
Students are introduced to development of their electronic professional portfolios. 2 credits

EDU 706 Portfolio Presentation
Students present their electronic professional portfolios for approval and program completion. 2 credits

Emphasis Area Requirements
22 credits
* EDU 512 Foundations of Early Childhood Education
A good beginning for children is essential to their later school success. Students study the historical forces that have influenced today's practices in the care of young children, ages 3-8. Through readings, discussions and visits to child-care facilities, the students gain an understanding of the current status of children in today's society. 2 credits

EDU 542 Language Development and Disorders
Being able to effectively communicate with others is essential to all school success. Students study normal language development in children, both expressive and receptive. Students study the literature, observe and record language use, assess language using formal and informal assessment tools, and evaluate a child's language scores with suggested norms to determine the discrepancy from acceptable performance. 3 credits

* EDU 568 Curriculum Development in Early Childhood Education
Making sure that children receive an optimal early childhood education program is essential. To ensure developmentally appropriate programs for 3-8 year old children, students in this course study the content and curriculum of early childhood programs. Particular attention is given to developmentally appropriate practices. From readings and observations of children, students develop appropriate topics and outcomes for children. 2 credits

EDU 595 Behavior Management
Skilled school personnel function on the premise that academic progress is achieved through effective behavior management of children. Students demonstrate their knowledge of the theories underlying the appropriate practices of managing significant behavior in therapeutic settings. This course is designed with a practicum component to provide students with observation and application experiences. 3 credits

* EDU 601 Teaching Strategies in Early Childhood Education
Techniques to ensure appropriate learning are essential in an effective early childhood education program. Students investigate instructional materials, teaching strategies and learning styles with young children, ages 3-8 years of age. Students give particular attention to active, manipulative, child-centered activities in a playful situation. Various instructional practices and techniques are explored. 2 credits

EDU 645 School - Family Relations
The success of any special education program is dependent upon the relationship with parents and community resources. The student explores the relationships of schools, communities and families as affected by exceptional children. Family dynamics, conferencing with parents and developing networks with school and community resources are considered, and parent panels, community resource panels and various other resources are used. 2 credits

* EDU 654 Child Study, Observation and Assessment
Gathering information to assist in evaluating children and programs is important in all early childhood education programs. The student explores and practices various observation and assessment techniques that assist the teacher in evaluation and decision-making with young children. From the observations and assessments, the student determines instructional topics and strategies for use in determining age appropriate and individually appropriate practices in Early Childhood programs. 2 credits

EDU 687 Internship Early Childhood Special Education
School personnel have developed skills in their areas of study that are augmented by field-based experiences under the supervision of master teachers and administrators. Students practice their knowledge and skills at practicum sites or other school environments. Through the internship/ practicum, students have practical experiences in their areas of emphasis as well as experiences such as site-based decision-making, personal relations, curricular planning, organization and time management, and student relations. Prerequisite: Admission to the Graduate program and completion of area of emphasis. 2 credits

* Required for Kindergarten Endorsement

Total: 37 - 38 credits

Note: The University of Mary is not responsible for invalidation of course work due to future changes in North Dakota credential guidelines.