Social and Philosophical Foundations Ed.M.

Master of Education in General Education (Ed.M.)

Social Foundations uses the Master of Education Degree in General Education for its students; there is no specific Master of Education degree in Social Foundations. The General Education Degree was established by the Graduate School of Education to meet the degree needs of students who complete a course of study that warrants a Master of Education degree in an area for which there exists no specific degree.

In particular, the Ed.M. in Social Foundations offers students an exciting focus on "Social Issues in Education." This focus allows teachers and other professionals in education the unique opportunity to examine how larger social issues affect what happens inside of schools. It also gives educators the opportunity to think critically about their role in bringing about a more equitable and just society. Issues we discuss include: race, social class, and gender in schools; urban education; technology in education; popular culture and education; and, the importance of out-of-school learning settings (for example, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA's, and churches).
The following requirements and procedures, legislated by the GSE apply to the Master of Education in General Education degree:

The Master of Education (Ed.M.) is a professional degree. Students are expected to obtain mastery of a body of knowledge, skill in application of that knowledge, and professional concern for the student, the school and the community.

The objectives of the degree program are to assist the student in becoming aware of the general philosophy, principles and practices of education; to investigate developments and trends in educational practice; and to specialize in a specific area of education.

It is assumed that students will develop skills in critical thinking and professional performance, that they will gain an understanding of educational research methods appropriate to their professional responsibilities, and that they will improve their ability to work effectively with other personnel in professional settings.

NOTE: Transfer among the programs of the Department is not encouraged. Students should not expect to enter one and later transfer to another.

For questions regarding the application process applicants must contact:

Office of Graduate Admissions and Student Services
Graduate School of Education
University at Buffalo
366 Baldy Hall
Buffalo, NY 14260
Telephone: (716) 645-2110
Fax: (716) 645-7937
email: gse-info@buffalo.edu

Course Work:

A minimum of 32 credits beyond the baccalaureate degree is required. At least 16 of these hours must be taken within the Social Foundations Area. Undergraduate courses cannot be included in a master's degree program.

Grade Point Average:

A cumulative B (3.0) average for the total master's program is required for graduation.

Time Limitation:

All course work must be completed within a period of five years from the date of first matriculation, including official leaves of absence.

Transfer Credit:

A maximum of six hours of transfer credit may be included in a program if approved by the student's advisor. Official transcripts of this credit must be filed with the department office.

Comprehensive Examination or Project:

Students must either successfully complete a comprehensive examination related to his or her field of study or a Master's degree project. The project is a profession-related activity that demonstrates competence in applying particular skills, concepts and theories. The project may take such forms as action plans to implement curriculum changes or new teaching methods; conceptual analyses of extant practices in light of current theoretical arguments and/or empirical findings; an in-depth review of literature on some topic or problem; or an ethnographic case study, to name but a few examples.

In order to engage in a project, the candidate will present a formal, written proposal to his or her advisor for comment and approval. The project will be evaluated by the advisor and, if appropriate, a second faculty member in the area.