Navigating the Journey to a Master’s Degree in Teaching

Pursuing a career as a teacher can be an incredibly rewarding path. Despite some challenges, according to the Pew Research Center, more than 80% of teachers in K-12 classrooms are satisfied with their jobs.1 For many prospective teachers, the opportunity to shape the lives of the children they teach and to develop lifelong bonds with their colleagues are strong draws for the career.  

However, not everyone feels the call early enough to major in education or teaching as an undergraduate. Even if you did not earn a bachelor’s degree in education or teaching, it is still possible to change young lives by changing to a career in education. For many, a Master's of Science in Teaching may provide the perfect path.  

What Is a Master's in Teaching?

A master’s of science in teaching (MST) degree is an ideal option for those who have completed their undergraduate degrees in fields other than education who want to pursue teaching as a career. Many MST programs are specifically designed for people who want to change careers or for those in education but do not have an initial certification. MST programs provide subject matter expertise with formal teaching training. In as few as 12 months, an MST can prepare you to become a certified teacher and start down the road to a fulfilling career in education.  

Master's in Education vs. Master's in Teaching: What's the Iona Difference?2

What should I get my master’s degree in as a teacher? In simple terms, a master’s in education (MSED) at Iona University is a program designed for working educators or initially certified educators who want to further their expertise or become certified in specialized areas such as literacy or special education.

Conversely, a master’s in teaching degree program at Iona University is for those seeking their initial teaching certification.

Master's of Science in Teaching Programs

At Iona University, the MST program is designed for career changers with no prior classroom experience or current educators or paraeducators seeking their initial certification. This master’s in teaching program emphasizes hands-on experience, offering early involvement in school communities to help teachers gain the confidence and evidence-based skills they’ll need in the classroom.

Program Details3

At Iona University, the MST program curriculum is built specifically for career changers who have not taught in a classroom before or who are currently teaching somewhere without certification. The Iona master’s in teaching degree is a fieldwork-driven program that offers opportunities to work in school communities early in order to equip teachers with the confidence and relevant experiences necessary in their teaching positions.

At the heart (or center) of Iona's graduate education programs is a highly trained and distinguished faculty. Our programs are unique in offering multiple, immersive field experiences and courses that challenge, engage, and support students, guided by dedicated faculty, supervisors, and mentors committed to their success.

Iona is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). The university also boasts a highly successful EdTPA (NYS videotaped teacher portfolio exam) and certification test pass rate for graduates.

Master's of Science in Teaching Programs

The short answer to “what can I do with a master’s in teaching?” is that it depends on the master’s program you choose.  With a master’s in teaching, you can pursue a variety of impactful careers in education. Graduates are prepared to obtain their initial certification as classroom teachers in elementary, middle, or high schools, and can select dual degree programs providing them the opportunity to graduate prepared to be certified in different specialized areas like literacy or special education. 

Early Childhood Education (Birth - Grade 2)

Early childhood education (ECE) refers to the learning period from birth to second grade. This phase of education is crucial as it forms the foundation for a child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. ECE often emphasizes play-based learning, where children learn through both structured and unstructured play activities that promote exploration and creativity. Preschool and kindergarten teaching is a common path for those who choose to focus on ECE.  

At Iona, MST students can choose a dual program in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, designed to prepare teachers to support learners from birth to grade 6. This program emphasizes evidence-based practices, equipping graduates with a comprehensive skill set grounded in research, and providing them with expanded employment opportunities after graduation. 

Childhood Education (Grade 1 - Grade 6)4

The Childhood Education specialization at Iona delves into evidence-based teaching methods for grades one through six. In these courses, MST students will explore strategies grounded in the learning sciences, such as fostering literacy to develop critical thinking skills, integrating technology to enhance engagement, and applying current educational theories to support young learners' cognitive growth.

Adolescent Education (Grade 7 - Grade 12)

The MST in Adolescent Education at Iona prepares aspiring educators to teach middle and high school students in grades 7 through 12. This program enhances candidates' subject-area knowledge and develops their expertise in adolescent development and instructional strategies tailored to secondary education.

MST candidates seeking to specialize in Adolescent Education must have completed prerequisites in their chosen content area, such as Biology, English, Mathematics, Social Studies, or Spanish. Graduates earn a Master of Science in Teaching degree and initial New York State certification as subject-area teachers for grades 7-12. 

Special Education

Aspiring teachers can choose to focus their MST degrees on special education to learn strategies and best practices.  

At Iona, MST students can specialize in Childhood and Special Education, earning dual certification in Childhood Education (grades 1-6) and Students with Disabilities (grades 1-6) in New York State. This program combines a strong foundation in inclusive education and content-specific teaching, preparing candidates to become engaging educators and advocates for all students. Through coursework focused on the learning sciences, evidence-based inclusive practices, instruction, and assessment, MST students learn to create supportive, inclusive classrooms that meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with disabilities, from grades one through six.

Admissions Requirements for a Master's Degree in Teaching Program5

Applying for a graduate program comes with certain requirements. Applicants interested in joining the MST program at Iona should be prepared to submit the following:

  • Completed application (may be completed online)
  • Official transcripts from completed undergraduate programs
  • At least one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional contact; undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 is required by New York state law
  • Current resume  
  • Interview with an education department chair or assistance chair 

The MST program at Iona is part of the education department under the School of Arts and Sciences. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early; however, Iona operates on a rolling admissions basis.

Take Your Education Career to the Next Level

Is a master’s in teaching worth it? If you want to be a teacher, shape the future, and find satisfaction in your work, then the answer is yes. Earning a Master of Science in teaching can truly be a life-changing experience.  

Not only will graduates of the Iona MST program develop relationships with faculty and their cohorts, but they will also open the door for new, fulfilling careers as teachers. How long it takes to get a master’s in teaching can be a concern, particularly for those who are already working professionals. Luckily, even if you do not have any classroom experience, an MST program can prepare you to run your own classroom and change young lives in as little as one year. Apply to the program today to start your journey.