Turn your passion into a teaching career. If you hold a bachelor’s degree and would like to become a classroom teacher, the initial teaching certification program prepares you with the skills to channel your interests or past degree into a career in education.
Quick Facts
Application Deadline April 1st
You Can Start Summer Semester Only
Delivery Option Syracuse Campus
Cost Per Credit Hour $471
Credit Hours 38
Estimated Completion Time 12 Months
Overview
The MST Program leading to Initial Teacher Certification in Education is a full-time 12 month program, beginning in May and culminating in May of the following year. This clinically rich program is a cohort model that combines coursework and supervised field placements. You will learn to create diverse, effective, and creative experiences for learners and develop thoughtful teaching plans and assessment evaluations to help you achieve your goals.
Curriculum
Master of Science in TeachingClinically Rich
The key to success for students entering the field of education is the ability to adjust to the changing national and state requirements while maintaining an inclusive learning environment. Our programs seek to immerse you in educational concepts and prepare you to improve K-12 student learning.
Outcomes
SUNY Oswego is dedicated to preparing knowledgeable teachers with strong commitments to equity and diversity, critical thinking, social responsibility and critical reflection. Following completion of the program, candidates are eligible for New York State initial teaching certification.
Career Opportunities
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NYS initial certified teacher for grades 7-12
I found a lot of my passion when I got into the education program at Oswego. I saw the impact I had on [the students] just as a practicum teacher — seeing what they were doing and what they were capable of and how far I could take them in one year.
Program Resources

NCATE Accredited
The School of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and has demonstrated that it meets standards set by organizations representing the academic community.
Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program
Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.
More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered
Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.
$500,000
in total awards given every year to our graduate students
The Power of SUNY Tuition
Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn't come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.
Admission Requirements
Submit an official transcript showing confirmation of a bachelor’s or master’s degree/advanced certificate. This includes any transcripts showing graduate-level coursework or post-baccalaureate degrees/certificates. Official transcripts must be sent directly from granting institution (electronic or mail). If you are a SUNY Oswego alum, your transcript will be automatically requested after entering your student ID and identifying SUNY Oswego as your school on the application.
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better is required for applicants. (Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 are welcome to apply, but should explain in the purpose statement what skills and experiences you will bring to the program or any special circumstances that affected your GPA.) If you have questions regarding your GPA, please speak to the department advisor for further information.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required for admission into the program. Acceptable scores are dependent on the course of study. Speak to your department advisor about what scores are acceptable to the program.
Prospective students will meet with faculty and other department chairs to outline and select effective courses to best assist you in your chosen field.
In 500–1000 words, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. Additionally, please write of your own understanding of education, what you would contribute to the School of Education, and how your past experiences and goals align with the Conceptual Framework and Dispositions? (To compose your answer, first examine the School of Education Conceptual Framework.)
Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.
Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities.
Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.