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A Legacy of Learning.
As a teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the lives of your students.
Introduction
The field of education is constantly changing and improving. Teachers and administrators are charged with implementing high-quality curriculum developed using state-adopted standards, while simultaneously creating an environment and culture built on trust and human connection.
Our Childhood Education major prepares students to enter the field of education with both pedagogical and practical experience. Students in our program will take the general education courses as well as a rich variety of program-specific courses that will guide and prepare them in becoming transformative educators.
Faculty
Our program has a balance of practicing professionals, veteran educators and full-time higher education faculty members, all possessing a wide range of practical experience and focused specialties.
Program Distinctions
By completing this Childhood Education degree as well as a liberal arts major in English, history or life sciences, you’ll be ready to be certified by New York State in teaching grades 1-6.
Accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), there are many different options for you to expand your education in this program. You can take graduate courses during your senior year as well as a middle school extension. If you go on to Russell Sage College’s master’s program, you could be certified in four areas upon completion of the Special Education/Literacy graduate program.
East Greenbush Education Partnership
The partnership between Russell Sage College’s Esteves School of Education and East Greenbush Central School District allows students in grades 9-12 to earn up to 30 college credits. Graduate with a bachelor of science degree in Childhood Education or Physical Education from Russell Sage College in just three years, saving time and money.
“[We are] uniquely situated in the Capital District, which provides us a great network for public, private and charter schools …”
Peter Stapleton, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Education
Spotlights
Read more from our students, faculty and alumni.
Your Future
After graduating from the Childhood Education program, you’ll be able to apply for teaching positions. You’ll also have to sit for a series of tests and obtain a master’s degree.
Student Teaching
You’ll complete two seven-week student-teaching experiences, one in grades 1-3 and one in grades 4-6. One placement is in a general-education classroom, with the other focusing on special education — allowing you to gain a broad range of experiences.
Candidates are placed in urban, suburban and rural school districts across their field experiences and student teaching placements. These opportunities require you to transition and utilize the skills that you have learned in real classroom settings. You’ll receive constructive feedback and supportive coaching through the process, enhancing your overall experience.
Careers
Students go on to master’s programs at Russell Sage College and other schools and teach in elementary school settings.
Graduate School
Once you graduate the program, you’ll have the opportunity to get your master’s degree in Special Education or Literacy Education, allowing you to expand your skills.
Have questions?
Assistant Professor, Department Chair, and Director: Center for Teaching and Learning