Teaching and Learning Sciences

Office: Katherine A. Ruffatto Hall, 110
Mail Code: 1999 E. Evans Avenue, Denver, CO 80208
Phone: 303-871-2509
Email: mce@du.edu
Website: morgridge.du.edu/programs/

The Department of Teaching and Learning Sciences at Morgridge offers a variety of doctoral, educational specialist, masters, and certificate degrees in three core academic programs: School Psychology, Curriculum and Instruction, Teacher Education, and Early Childhood Special Education. Please see below for the full list of degrees available in each subject area.

PROGRAM: SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY

Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology

The School Psychology (SP) Ph.D. program is designed to prepare highly competent, collaborative, ethical, and self-reflective scientist-practitioners who can problem-solve and share decision-making with others to optimize social, emotional, cognitive, academic, and behavioral outcomes for typically and atypically developing children and youth. The learning objectives aim to produce professionals who are competent in consultation, assessment, intervention, and scholarship/advocacy as they work on behalf of individuals, families, schools, and communities. These competency areas are defined as follows:

  • Consultation: to collaborate in strengths-based, problem-solving, interdisciplinary teams with families, teachers, administrators, and other school and community personnel and to demonstrate appropriate interpersonal relations and professional dispositions and work characteristics;
  • Assessment: to demonstrate evidence-based and culturally competent decision-making regarding selection, administration, and interpretation of assessments;
  • Intervention: to employ data-based decision-making and systems-thinking that links assessment outcomes to effective individual, family, and group change and to deliver preventative, remedial strategic accommodations, intervention, and crisis services in a timely and professional manner;
  • Scholarship and Advocacy: to apply, translate, and expand upon scientifically-based pedagogy and professional practice; able to advocate for the needs of children and families, to respect the dignity and worth of all persons, to exhibit compassion and self-awareness, and to demonstrate strong listening, oral and written communication skills.

The curriculum provides a strong foundation and core knowledge base in developmental, psychological, and learning theories, general and special education, and legal, ethical, and professional standards of practice. Professional skills and advanced training are required in research, measurement, program evaluation, assessment, prevention, intervention, and consultation with family, school, and community professionals. All SP applied experiences are designed within the CoRE framework. Ph.D. students gain competencies in conducting original research, grant writing, advanced qualitative and quantitative analysis, research design, and statistics. Graduates assume positions as administrators, university professors, and educational evaluators. Ph.D. students are expected to gain a high level of independent and collaborative research involvement with a faculty advisor.

Program Accreditation

The SP Ph.D. program is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). The Ph.D. program is also accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Ph.D graduates are assured eligibility for the National Certificate in School Psychology (NCSP), pending the completion of an internship consistent with NASP standards and a passing score on the National School Psychology Examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) as a part of the Praxis II Series. For further information, visit http://www.nasponline.org/certification/NASPapproved.aspx

Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology

The School Psychology (SP) Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree prepares professionals in all aspects of school psychology services to work with children and families from birth to age 21 in school or community settings. All graduates of the Ed.S. program are eligible for a Colorado Department of Education license in School Psychology and the NASP National Certification (NCSP) after the successful completion of all coursework and passing the Praxis II licensing exam.

Program Accreditation

The SP Ed.S Degree is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

Graduates are assured eligibility for the National Certificate in School Psychology (NCSP), pending the completion of an internship consistent with NASP standards and the attainment of a passing score on the National School Psychology Examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) as a part of the Praxis II Series. For further information, visit http://www.nasponline.org/certification/NASPapproved.aspx

Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology (Rural Hybrid)

The School Psychology (SP) Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Rural Hybrid program is designed for people living in rural Colorado communities who want to pursue a graduate degree in school psychology without relocating to a university campus. The program’s hybrid modality enables students to engage in virtual coursework from home during the school year and attend in-person class on campus in the summer. Applicants should identify with a rural Colorado community and plan to work as a school psychologist within this community throughout training and post-graduation.

Program Accreditation

The SP Ed.S (Rural Hybrid) Degree is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

Graduates are assured eligibility for the National Certificate in School Psychology (NCSP), pending the completion of an internship consistent with NASP standards and the attainment of a passing score on the National School Psychology Examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) as a part of the Praxis II Series. For further information, visit http://www.nasponline.org/certification/NASPapproved.aspx

Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology with a Concentration in Early Childhood School Psychology

The SP Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree with Early Childhood School Psychology Concentration prepares professionals to work with children and families from birth to age 21. This degree requires an additional 12 hours of integrated core and practical coursework. All graduates of the Ed.S. program are eligible for a Colorado Department of Education license in School Psychology and the NASP National Certification (NCSP), after the successful completion of all coursework and passing the Praxis II/National Association of School Psychology licensing exam.

Program Accreditation

The SP Ed.S./ECSP Degree is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). 

Graduates are assured eligibility for the National Certificate in School Psychology (NCSP), pending the completion of an internship consistent with NASP standards and a passing score on the National School Psychology Examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) as a part of the Praxis II Series. For further information, visit http://www.nasponline.org/certification/NASPapproved.aspx

Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology with a Concentration in Addictions

The School Psychology (SP) Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree with an Addictions Concentration prepares professionals to intervene early, with children and adolescents, to address and prevent substance abuse. This degree requires an additional 12 hours of core and practical coursework. All graduates of the Ed.S. program are eligible for a Colorado Department of Education license in School Psychology and the NASP National Certification (NCSP) after the successful completion of all coursework and passing the Praxis II licensing exam.

Program Accreditation

The SP Ed.S/AC Degree is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

Graduates are assured eligibility for the National Certificate in School Psychology (NCSP), pending the completion of an internship consistent with NASP standards and the attainment of a passing score on the National School Psychology Examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), part of the Praxis II Series. For further information, visit http://www.nasponline.org/certification/NASPapproved.aspx

Interim Master of Arts in School Psychology (for PhD students only)

A Master's degree in School Psychology is available as an interim degree for PhD candidates only. This concentration requires a minimum of 55 quarter hour credits, including a 200-hour practicum, but it does not lead to licensure as a professional school psychologist on its own.

PROGRAM: CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) Ph.D. students take a wide range of courses in curriculum, instruction, foundations, diversity, and research. The program is particularly well suited for students interested in becoming higher education faculty and leaders in schools and colleges of education. Dissertation topics cover a broad assortment of theoretical and practical topics in schools or associated institutions or communities. Additionally, students are encouraged to consider enrolling in courses in other academic units in the Morgridge College of Education and throughout the University in order to enhance or expand their educational experience. Specializations are offered in the following areas: Curriculum Studies, Gifted Education, STEM Education, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, and Special Education.

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction 

The Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) EdD is designed to prepare educational practitioners as experts of curriculum and instruction, capable of engaging in problems and challenges in a variety of educational institutions and contexts, particularly at the school or district level. The aim of this program is to produce graduates who are leaders and innovators in education, equipped with cutting-edge applied research skills, creative educational visions based on established academic disciplines, moral imagination, curricular expertise, and commitments to issues of equity and social responsibility. Specializations are offered in the following areas: Curriculum Studies, *Gifted Education, STEM Education, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, and Special Education. 

*Gifted EdD is available fully online or in-person.

Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction

This degree program is designed with the individual student’s background and career goals in mind. Most students prepare for traditional and non-traditional positions in education that require planning, consulting, research, curriculum development, evaluation and policy-making. Instructional coaching is established in a profession that is increasingly gaining national attention. Many school districts across the US, including several in Colorado, are implementing instructional coaching as a component of transformative school reform. Specializations are offered in the following areas: Curriculum Studies, Gifted Education, STEM Education, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, and Special Education.

Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Teacher Education Program-Elementary/Secondary/K-12

The Teacher Education Program (TEP) offers an intensive, integrated, professional preparation experience. The program is structured similarly to clinical preparation models where coursework and field experiences are purposeful, connected, gradual, and cumulative. Program features such as small class sizes, built-in peer support, high academic standards, and a year-long residency in closely supervised field experiences in linguistically and culturally diverse settings promote student success in mastering the competencies of an effective teacher. Apprentice teachers can complete this program in one year, earning both teaching licensure and a master's degree.

Apprentice teachers are required to complete 840 hours of field experience in diverse public school classrooms. Apprentice teachers are required to be at their fieldwork site three days a week during the fall and winter quarters and four-five days a week in the spring quarter. A gradual release of responsibility leads to solo teaching throughout the year-long residency.

The mission of the TEP concentrations is to provide an extensive, integrated, professional experience that supports apprentice teachers in developing the dispositions, knowledge, and skills of an effective teacher of diverse learners in under-served K-12 schools. Ultimately, effective teachers engage, plan, teach, and lead to promoting the growth and development of all learners, and they take an active role in their own professional development.

Dual Undergraduate-Graduate Program in Teacher Education

The Dual Undergraduate-Graduate Degree program in Teacher Education concentration is an approved program in which the University of Denver Undergraduate student begins taking classes toward a teaching license and a graduate degree program prior to earning a baccalaureate degree. Both degrees must be earned within five years of matriculation into the undergraduate degree program. Dual-degree students in the TEP program will select a cognate consisting of 9 credits of graduate course work to be completed in their undergraduate senior year. Please see the complete dual-degree guidelines and policy posted here. The nine hours of MCE coursework can be spread across the fall, winter, or spring quarters; or stacked into one or two quarters. Dual-degree students should initiate the admissions process in the winter of their junior year. 

Program Authorization and Accreditation

The program is authorized by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) and accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP).

Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in the Teacher Education Program - Elementary/Secondary/K-12

The Teacher Education Program (TEP) offers an intensive, integrated, professional preparation experience. The program is structured similarly to clinical preparation models where coursework and field experiences are purposeful, connected, gradual, and cumulative. Program features such as small class sizes, built-in peer support, high academic standards, and a year-long residency in closely supervised field experiences in linguistically and culturally diverse settings promote student success in mastering the competencies of an effective teacher. Upon completion of the certificate program, the student will be eligible to apply for teacher licensure through the Colorado Department of Education.

Apprentice teachers are required to complete 840 hours of field experience in diverse public school classrooms. Apprentice teachers are required to be at their fieldwork site three days a week during the fall and winter quarters and four-five days a week in the spring quarter. A gradual release of responsibility leads to solo teaching throughout the year-long residency.

The mission of the TEP concentrations is to provide an extensive, integrated, professional experience that supports apprentice teachers in developing the dispositions, knowledge, and skills of an effective teacher of diverse learners in under-served K-12 schools. Ultimately, effective teachers engage, plan, teach, and lead to promoting the growth and development of all learners, and they take an active role in their own professional development.

Students who are interested in adding a certificate from MCE may do so by contacting the Office of Graduate Education.  Students need to work with their advisor to have their certificate coursework count toward their specialization if also pursuing a higher degree.  In order for the certificate to be awarded, the student must complete all published requirements.  Students looking to qualify for an endorsement should confirm with the Colorado Department of Education the minimum requirements needed.  The University of Denver provides opportunities for students to receive specific certificates in areas of specialization, while the Colorado Department of Education offers endorsements related to licensure.

Program Authorization and Accreditation

The program is authorized by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) and accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP).

Certificate in Gifted Core Education

The Gifted Education Certificate seeks to prepare educators in the theories and best practices of Gifted Education and includes courses necessary for the Colorado Department of Education endorsements: Gifted Education Core, Gifted Education Specialist, and Director of Gifted Education.

Students who are interested in adding a certificate from MCE may do so by contacting the Office of Graduate Education.  Students need to work with their advisor to have their certificate coursework count toward their specialization if also pursuing a higher degree.  In order for the certificate to be awarded, the student must complete all published requirements.  Students looking to qualify for an endorsement should confirm with the Colorado Department of Education the minimum requirements needed.  The University of Denver provides opportunities for students to receive specific certificates in areas of specialization, while the Colorado Department of Education offers endorsements related to licensure.

Certificate For Special Education Generalist

The Certificate for Special Education Generalist focuses on expanded learning opportunities for students interested in specialized work with children (5-21 years) with developmental delays and disabilities. Students in the SEG certificate program will develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work successfully with special education programs in public schools, private schools, and community agencies that serve families with children with developmental delays, disabilities, or at-risk characteristics and qualities. Students qualify for a Colorado Department of Education endorsement if they have a Colorado teaching license.

Students who are interested in adding a certificate from MCE may do so by contacting the Office of Graduate Education.  Students need to work with their advisor to have their certificate coursework count toward their specialization if also pursuing a higher degree.  In order for the certificate to be awarded, the student must complete all published requirements.  Students looking to qualify for an endorsement should confirm with the Colorado Department of Education the minimum requirements needed.  The University of Denver provides opportunities for students to receive specific certificates in areas of specialization, while the Colorado Department of Education offers endorsements related to licensure.

Certificate in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE)

The Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) Certificate courses prepare students to be evidence-based practitioners and researchers who can foreground culturally responsive pedagogy and the cultural, linguistic, cognitive, and academic needs of culturally and linguistically diverse learners in communities and classroom practices.  Throughout their coursework, candidates learn and apply knowledge about first and second language acquisition, the selection and utilization of culturally relevant literature, essential literacy components, and curriculum and assessment practices for CLD learners with an emphasis on language and funds of knowledge to bridge communities, classrooms, and schools.  Students qualify for a Colorado Department of Education endorsement if they have a Colorado teaching license.

Students who are interested in adding a certificate from MCE may do so by contacting the Office of Graduate Education.  Students need to work with their advisor to have their certificate coursework count toward their specialization if also pursuing a higher degree.  In order for the certificate to be awarded, the student must complete all published requirements.  Students looking to qualify for an endorsement should confirm with the Colorado Department of Education the minimum requirements needed.  The University of Denver provides opportunities for students to receive specific certificates in areas of specialization, while the Colorado Department of Education offers endorsements related to licensure.

PROGRAM: EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION

Master of Arts in Early Childhood Special Education

The MA in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) focuses on opportunities for specialized work with young children (birth through 8 years old) and families in school and community settings. It also is a pipeline to licensure and non-licensure degrees, including a PhD. Students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work successfully within the early childhood school and community agencies that serve children from birth through eight years old. Students are required to complete practicum hours and Praxis II tests in alignment with Colorado Department of Education licensing requirements. 

Our goal is to prepare highly competent, collaborative, ethical, and self-reflective Early Childhood Special Education Specialists, who serve young children with special needs and their families in schools, districts, and community organizations. This program facilitates training and development as a scientist-practitioner who can solve problems and share decision-making with others to optimize social-emotional, cognitive, academic, and behavioral outcomes for children from birth to age eight with special needs, and their families.

Certificate in Early Childhood Special Education

The Early Childhood Special Education Certificate is designed as a 1-year program that is aligned with the Masters of Arts in Early Childhood Special Education. As with the MA ECSE program, the candidates in the ECSE Certificate program are required to complete practicum hours and Praxis tests in alignment with Colorado Department of Education licensing requirements and apply to the state for the Early Childhood Special Education Specialist Endorsement.

Students who are interested in adding a certificate from MCE may do so by contacting the Office of Graduate Education.  Students need to work with their advisor to have their certificate coursework count toward their specialization if also pursuing a higher degree.  In order for the certificate to be awarded, the student must complete all published requirements.  Students looking to qualify for an endorsement should confirm with the Colorado Department of Education the minimum requirements needed.  The University of Denver provides opportunities for students to receive specific certificates in areas of specialization, while the Colorado Department of Education offers endorsements related to licensure.