Academics

Educational Foundations

BA • Major

A teacher helps a group of young students in a toy rowboat.

If you’re passionate about exploring the world of education or working with children, Montclair’s Educational Foundations program offers the knowledge and flexibility to get started. This interdisciplinary degree introduces key topics in learning environments, child development, and with examinations of the historical, social, and philosophical forces that shape today’s schools.

You’ll learn about how schools operate, how children learn, and how larger social systems impact learning and development.  You’ll also build knowledge in core subject areas such as language arts, math, science, and Social Studies, which are essential for anyone considering a career in education.

With a variety of course options and opportunities to connect theory to the real world, students can explore different pathways in education. Whether your interests lie in teaching or education policy, you’ll gain a strong foundation to lead in classrooms and communities.

If you’re ready to inspire young minds and make a difference through education, this program is for you. See the curriculum.

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Teaching Options

Elementary K-6 Education

If you pursue our Educational Foundations program, you can take it a step further and prepare to earn your Elementary K-6 Certification.

You’ll be ready to make an impact in the classroom or community the moment you receive your degree. Our program provides a seamless transition to teacher certification, preparing you to take the certification test and enter the job market confidently from day one.

See the curriculum.

BA/MAT in Teaching Combined Degree Program

The Combined Bachelor’s/MAT with Dual Certification program is a 5-year program that leads to teacher certification in a desired subject area, teacher certification in Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TSD), a baccalaureate degree and a master’s degree.

See the curriculum.

Make this a Co-Major

In New Jersey, to pursue your career as a teacher, you’ll need to double major in Education and an academic major. The combination of a professional major in education and an academic major in a discipline offers a rigorous and practical foundation, preparing you to make a lasting impact in the classroom and the wider community.

Application Requirements

Students in this major who wish to become classroom teachers in grades K-6 need to be admitted to Montclair’s nationally recognized Teacher Education program.

To apply, you must have:

  • Completed prerequisite courses
  • Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA or better for a single certification program or a 3.25 cumulative GPA for the combined Bachelor’s Master’s with Dual Certification program
  • Have the required in-major GPA for your desired program (will vary by program)

If this sounds like you, you’ll need to submit:

  • Your completed application via the Teacher Education Program website
  • Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
  • Your completed application essay
  • One letter of recommendation from a Montclair State University faculty member
  • Your resume

Once you apply and your application is reviewed, you’ll participate in an admissions interview with faculty before a decision is made – which typically occurs within 4 weeks.

Application Deadlines

Fall Semester: February 1 (single certification and combined Bachelor’s/Master’s candidates)
Spring Semester: September 15 (single certification candidates only)

Questions? Email teadmissions@montclair.edu and start the conversation!

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.

Office of Undergraduate Admissions

The office of Undergraduate Admissions will guide you every step of the way on your journey from learning about the University and its offerings, to applying for a program through to acceptance and enrollment.

Educational Foundations Department

The Department of Educational Foundations seeks to clarify the relationship between educational theory and practice through academic inquiry and programmatic involvement. The department offers core courses required of all undergraduates and graduates seeking teacher certification.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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