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Prepare for New York State teacher certification and choose the program and pathway that support your goals as an educator.

Explore the Traditional MS Program Explore the Touro University Teaching Residents (TUTR) Program Attend an Information Session

Earn your master’s degree at Touro’s Graduate School of Education and work toward New York State teacher certification in general and special education (Birth-Grade 2 or Grades 1-6) or special education (Grades 7-12). You’ll gain evidence-based teaching methods, a deep understanding of culturally diverse learners, and practical classroom experience so you can begin a teaching career with confidence.

With two program options, the MS in Education & Special Education offers a flexible structure for earning your degree while preparing for New York State teacher certification in accordance with NYSED requirements.

Choose an MS in Education & Special Education Program

No matter your focus, Touro GSE offers two academic programs for becoming a certified teacher. Both include rigorous coursework and preparation for New York State certification, but the experience for each differs.

Student smiling during class

Traditional Master’s Program

In the traditional program, you’ll build a strong foundation through graduate-level coursework before moving into extended classroom practice. As part of required clinical practice, you’ll participate in student teaching, with classroom responsibility increasing over time. This stepped approach allows you to observe, practice, and teach with guidance and support from faculty and cooperating teachers as you prepare for independent classroom teaching.

You can choose from three certification pathways in the traditional MS program:

Learn more about the Traditional MS Program

MS student teaching in classroom

Touro University Teaching Residents (TUTR) Program

In the Touro University Teaching Residents (TUTR) program, you’ll complete core graduate coursework alongside residency-specific classes and fieldwork while participating in a residency placement in NYC Public Schools. Offered in cooperation with the New York State Department of Labor’s Empire Teacher Residency Program, TUTR combines classroom experience and mentorship with coursework to develop your teaching practice in real time.

You can choose from two certification pathways in the Residency MS program:

Learn More About the Teaching Residency Program

What to Expect at Touro GSE

Whichever program and pathway you choose, your experience at Touro GSE will be grounded in current research and best practices so you can acquire the knowledge and build the skills needed to teach diverse learners effectively and ethically.

  • Learn Evidence-Based, Standards-Aligned Instruction: Use research-backed strategies and integrate Common Core learning standards into meaningful, engaging learning.
  • Teach to Diverse Learners: Learn how to understand and teach within the many cultural contexts of the NYC metro area’s large and diverse student body.
  • Build Strong Learning Environments: Gain skills for encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and meaningful participation in the classroom.
  • Receive Support and Advisement: Faculty guidance, school-based supervision, and advising to support your academic progress and preparation for certification requirements.
  • Complete Certification Requirements: Fulfill New York State requirements, including seminars and workshops, fingerprinting, and New York State teacher certification exams.
  • Get Your Degree Flexibly: With the exception of classroom experience as a teacher, didactic classes may be completed asynchronously online, live on Zoom, or in person at our Brooklyn campus.

Take the Next Step Toward a Career in Education

Whether you’re seeking a traditional route into teaching or an immersive residency experience, Touro GSE can help you move forward with purpose and support.

Already enrolled or taking courses as a visiting student? Find registration and advising details through TouroOne or by contacting the Academic Scheduling Coordinator Cristina Lanks at clanks@touro.edu.