About the College
The College of Education and Human Development is the largest provider of undergraduate
and graduate professional education programs and educational policy research in
Maine. The College’s graduate programs prepare teachers and other specialists
to apply research-based knowledge, field-tested experience and the latest technology
to help address the changing needs of schools, colleges, children and families.
As the home of statewide, regional and national research and professional development
programs, the College’s work is constantly informed and innovative.
Graduate programs are designed to enrich and extend theory, practice and leadership.
The hallmark of graduate work at the College is mentoring–working closely with
a faculty advisor whose goal is to ensure that student programs meet unique needs.
Small classes, led by widely recognized faculty, encourage debate, inquiry, and
discussion based on real experiences and current issues. Flexibility is built
into individual programs to allow the greatest impact in specific areas of need.
This same commitment to individual growth and inquiry is ingrained in the Graduate
Outreach Program. Faculty members travel around the state each year to teach graduate
courses and consult with cohorts of students who live too far from campus for
a reasonable commute.
The College’s educator preparation programs are fully accredited by the National
Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and approved by the Maine Department
of Education.
A number of College of Education and Human Development graduate assistantships
are available for qualified students from the master through the doctoral levels.
A definite decision on financial aid is made only after a completed admission
has been received and approved. The College administers the Linda N. Lancaster
Fund, which is designated to help cover some professional development expenses
of graduate students, such as travel to conferences. Graduate Assistantships in
various student affairs offices, based on application to the specific office,
serve a number of students especially in our programs in Higher Education and
Student Development. This catalog describes other financial aid opportunities
elsewhere.
The College offers a variety of graduate programs leading to the Master of Education,
Master of Arts, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Science, the Certificate
of Advanced Study, and Doctor of Education. The Master of Arts and Master of Science
degrees require a thesis; the Master of Education and Master of Arts in Teaching
are non-thesis programs. A number of specialty areas or concentrations are available
for each degree program. Graduate students, in consultation with their advisors,
plan their programs based on Graduate School and College requirements, certification
guidelines, professional association recommendations, and individual goals. More
information about specific graduate programs is available from the College of
Education and Human Development.
Master of Education
The Master of Education (M.Ed.) is intended to enhance the preparation of classroom
teachers and prepare educators for specialty areas. The degree is granted on completion
of a planned program of study that includes a minimum of 33-48 semester hours,
depending on the discipline. Those semester hours may include up to 6 hours of
approved transfer coursework from a fully accredited college or university which
would be acceptable at that institution in partial fulfillment of its requirements
for a graduate degree. Students are required to elect two seminars appropriate
to their program of study or, with the agreement of the advisor, may substitute
an appropriate practicum or internship for one of the seminars. The seminars are
in lieu of a thesis, graduate paper, or oral examination. All work for the M.Ed.
program must be completed within six years of matriculation.
Eligibility for admission to M.Ed. programs is based on completion of prerequisites
for the specific program. Some K-12 programs require prior teacher certification.
However, an applicant from another undergraduate program may establish eligibility
by meeting essential prerequisites. In accordance with Graduate School regulations,
all thesis candidates must take the Graduate Record Examination. Non-thesis candidates
may take either the Miller Analogies Test or the GRE. Applicants should allow
up to six weeks for scores to be sent to the Graduate School.
Certificate of Advanced Study
The Certificate of Advanced Study (C.A.S.) provides a cohesive program of professional
development beyond the master’s level for educational specialists. The program
of study is individually planned by the student and the student’s advisor. A minimum
of 30 credit hours of work beyond the master’s level is required to earn the C.A.S.
Candidates must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours in professional education
coursework at the 500- and/ or 600-level at the University of Maine. All work
for the C.A.S. must be completed within six years. A master’s degree in the C.A.S.
subject matter is required for admission.
Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) is a 36-45 credit hour program for individuals
who have a bachelor’s degree in an academic area other than education and wish
to pursue certification for a career in teaching. The M.A.T. is a full-time 12-month
program that runs June to June. It includes all professional education courses
and school internships required for Maine state teacher certification. The M.A.T.
prepares individuals for certification in elementary education (K-8); English,
mathematics, life and physical sciences, and social studies at the secondary level
(7-12); and foreign languages (K-12). Applicants should have their undergraduate
transcripts evaluated by the Maine Department of Education to determine if they
have taken the academic courses necessary to obtain teacher certification in at
least one endorsement area. Applicants must be within two courses of completion
of those academic prerequisites and complete them prior to receiving the M.A.T.
Additionally, applicants must successfully pass the PRAXIS I exam and any other
exam required by the state of Maine..
Doctor of Education
The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree is offered in the specialty areas of Educational
Leadership, Higher Educational Leadership, Literacy and Counselor Education. In
addition, an individually designed Ed.D. is offered for students whose interests
are well developed and combine more than one area of concentration. All doctorates
include courses in Educational Foundations and Research Methodology. Programs
include a minimum of 90 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Up to 45 credit
hours of relevant prior graduate work may be transferred into the program upon
approval of the doctoral committee. See individual programs for specific programmatic
and admissions requirements. Applications should be received by January 15 for
candidates wishing to be considered for University teaching assistantships.
This program is designed for applicants who already hold a Master’s degree whose
interests for advanced study and research in education do not fall within existing
Ed.D. programs. It is appropriate only for those applicants whose interests are
well developed and who present a focused proposal for study and research that
can be supported by the University’s resources. An Individually Designed Ed.D.
may be planned in one of two ways:
- The applicant may draw upon an existing doctoral concentration in the College
and another graduate concentration in the College or University.
- The applicant may draw upon two or more areas within the College of Education
and Human Development that do not presently offer doctoral programs but that offer
master’s level programs (combining them, as appropriate, with study in a graduate
program outside of the College.)
In either case, the program is expected to offer a strong base in doctoral level
coursework in addition to the dissertation. A 21 credit hour common core providing
a substantial portion of that base includes:
- Educational Foundations
- EDH 500 Social Context of Education
- EDH 662 Philosophy of Education
- EPT 522 Advanced Educational Psychology
- Research Methodology
- EDS 521 Statistical Methods in Educational Research
- EDS 571 Introduction to Qualitative Research
- EDG 595 Educational Research
And either/or
- EDS 522 Statistical Methods in Educational Research II
- EDU 690 Topics: Advanced Qualitative Research
Applicants have major responsibility for defining and initiating study before
admission, a process that must continue through matriculation. In addition, qualified
faculty representing the projected field of study must initially express a commitment
to sponsor and direct the applicant’s work.
Initial inquiries and a request for detailed guidelines regarding this program
should be made to the Graduate Coordinator, College of Education, University of
Maine, Orono, ME 04469, (207) 581-2444. Applicants interested in assistantships
and financial aid are advised to begin the application process one year in advance
of matriculation. Those inquiring will receive all materials necessary to complete
the application process.
M.Ed.: The 48-credit hour Master’s degree is designed to offer preparation for
entry-level professional counseling in school settings. The curriculum is comprised
of coursework and intensive supervised field experiences considered to be essential
in the preparation of professional counselors with a developmental orientation.
C.A.S.: The C.A.S. is offered as a planned program of electives approved by an
advisor representing 30 credit hours beyond the Master’s degree. Through the C.A.S.,
students develop specialized knowledge about counseling with certain client populations,
obtain advanced levels of supervision of counseling practice, and qualify for
school counselor certification if they have previously prepared to work in community
agency settings.
Ed.D.: The doctoral program in Counselor Education prepares students for academic
positions in counselor education. In designing this program, the faculty ascribe
to the overarching goal of preparing competent scholar-practitioners. The program
is closely allied with the faculty of Human Development and Family Studies. Counselor
Education doctoral applications are due by December 1 for review for Fall acceptance.
Admission to the graduate program in Counselor Education, in addition to the basic
requirements of the Graduate School, includes separate eligibility standards as
established by the faculty. A personal interview also is recommended. The program
encourages consultation and collaboration among professionals in schools and community
settings. Therefore, students are provided field experiences in elementary, middle,
and secondary schools and post-secondary institutions. Opportunities are also
available in the community contexts.
Opportunities for financial aid may be available to students in Counselor Education
in addition to those sources listed elsewhere in this catalog. Employment opportunities
often are available in the professional and academic community (e.g., tutoring,
proctoring, and part-time in counseling services). Further information may be
obtained from the student financial aid office and the coordinator of Counselor
Education.
In addition to programs leading to graduate degrees for elementary and secondary
teachers, programs may be developed for individuals whose interests and occupations
are similar or closely allied to teaching such as environmental educators with
government agencies, consultants, and health services personnel. In all cases,
planned programs will capitalize on the resources of the University at large and,
with the exception of the core courses stipulated by the graduate faculty of the
College, may vary widely to meet personal needs and professional goals.
Study in Educational Leadership provides both a theoretical and practical understanding
of educational organizations, leadership, educational program planning and evaluation,
and management functions. M.Ed. and C.A.S. programs prepare leaders primarily
for public and private schools, but encompass higher education, and other education
agencies as well. Doctoral study is a vehicle for scholarly analysis of organizational,
leadership, and educational program issues.
M.Ed.: The master’s program in Educational Leadership requires a minimum of 39 credit
hours. Two program choices are available: the Educational Leadership Core in which
a cohort of students takes 27 credits together (a new cohort begins each Fall);
and the Conventional Program in which students enroll in a sequence of courses
agreed upon by the student and advisor.
The master’s degree is designed primarily to prepare program- and school-level
leaders such as principals, team leaders, head teachers, and coordinators.
C.A.S.: The C.A.S. in Educational Leadership offers opportunities for study toward new
leadership roles, such as school superintendencies or supervisorships, or to develop
research capacities. A minimum of 30 credit hours is required.
Admissions deadlines for the M.Ed. and C.A.S. programs are November 1 (Spring
admission), April 1 (Summer admission), and July 1 (Fall admission). Most coursework
is offered in the late afternoon and evening in the Fall and Spring semesters
and during the day in Summer Session. Study may be full or part time.
Ed.D.: The Ed.D. program in Educational Leadership is designed for experienced educational
leaders. Doctoral candidates pursue advanced study and conduct research in organizational
leadership and performance. The application deadline for the program is February
1. In addition to the usual application materials, a prospective candidate for
the Ed.D. program must prepare and submit a leadership portfolio, submit a plan
for meeting the program’s residency requirement and be interviewed by the Educational
Leadership faculty.
The programs in Higher Education advance the knowledge and skills essential for
effective programmatic leadership in a variety of professional areas in today’s
colleges and universities. All programs emphasize the integration of oral and
written communication skills, critical thinking skills, a cognitive understanding
of colleges and universities as institutions, the social context within which
they function, the individual identity development of the students they serve,
and the effective use of technology in curriculum and communication.
The master’s program in Student Development in Higher Education encompasses a
body of knowledge and theory that provides a basis for professional practice.
It is designed around the guidelines established by the Council for the Advancement
of Standards for Student Services/Development Programs. Theory to practice internships
provide hands-on experience in a student affairs setting. The 39 credit hour graduate
program in Student Development in Higher Education contains three major components:
- Student development in higher education core (21 credit hours): A set of courses
required of all students in the program providing a base of knowledge about colleges
and universities and student development as a field. The core includes at least
3 credit hours of theory to practice internship experience and one 3 credit hour
elective. The program culminates in an integrating capstone seminar and final
paper.
- Research Core (6 credit hours): two courses providing a basic understanding of
educational research and statistical methods for conducting and/or interpreting
it.
- Focus Block/concentration (12 Credit Hours)…an area of emphasis specific to the
student’s interests: Options include educational leadership, counseling, women’s
studies, adult education and individualized.
M.A./M.S. Degrees: Exceptional, proven students, typically anticipating future doctoral work, who
wish to do a thesis rather than the Capstone Seminar may apply for transfer to
a MA or MS program after at least 18 hours in the MEd program in Student Development
in Higher Education, to include EDS510 and EDS521. The application must include
a proposal for the research project approved by the Higher Educational Leadership
faculty, and include signatures of three faculty committed to serving on the supervisory
committee.
Students typically hold graduate assistantships with offices and programs at
UMaine for which they apply directly to the specific offices.
Ed.D. in Higher Educational Leadership
The Ed.D. concentration in Higher Educational Leadership enhances and broadens
the leadership knowledge and skills of mid-career professionals within colleges
and universities and other settings serving advanced learning needs. Its goal
is to help leaders develop knowledge, interpersonal skills, values and awareness
that will enable them to influence positively the functioning and educational
outcomes of the institutions they serve. Through its structure and content the
concentration is intended to (1) enhance both individual professional skills and
vision; (2) enhance institutional capacities through more skilled leadership at
all levels; (3) develop collaborative networks of professional resources and support
through colleagues, faculty, and resource people with whom students have contact;
and (4) provide a forum for analysis of regional and national problems in higher
education and for advancing solutions to those problems with particular emphasis
on understanding the impact of social contexts and individual identity development
on colleges and universities.
The doctoral program in Higher Educational Leadership contains four major components
culminating in the dissertation including:
- Professional Core: a broad, common strand of course work required of all students to provide a
common understanding of colleges and universities in modern society (18 credit
hours) including the following courses:
- HED 676/677 Doctoral Seminar in Higher Education (2 semesters)
- HED 650 Social Context of Higher Education
- HED 652 Dynamics of Change in Higher Education
- HED 654 Higher Education Policy and Politics
- EDU 690 Topics: Advanced Leadership Studies (or a designated alternative)
- Research Foundations: a set of courses to provide expertise in evaluating and conducting quantitative
and/or qualitative research in educational settings (a minimum of 12 credit hours)
- Professional Specialization: a set of interdisciplinary courses tailored to individual professional goals,
needs and interests (a minimum of 18 credit hours which can include an internship or field research)
- Dissertation Research structured to solve problems or produce knowledge with direct applicability
to higher educational practice (a minimum of 6 credit hours).
The structure of the program is defined by the Ed.D. requirements in the parent
Educational Leadership program. It requires 90 credit hours past the bachelor’s
degree. Students may transfer up to 45 hours from prior graduate work. The disciplinary
backgrounds and the applied experience mid-career students bring with them are
central to the learning environment. Students are expected to learn from one another
as well as from faculty and others with specific expertise in areas of higher
education.
Additional information regarding the program and the supplemental admissions
process is available from Higher Education Leadership Doctoral Admissions, 5766
Shibles Hall, University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469. Application deadline is
typically February 15.
M.S.: The Master of Science degree program in Human Development provides students
with opportunities to pursue advanced study of the growth and development of individuals
at various periods in the life span (e.g., early childhood, adolescence, adulthood),
and of the family in its various forms and as a system of relationships. Current
concern with issues such as child abuse, day care, divorce, family financial resources,
human sexuality, adolescent pregnancy, and family care of the elderly underscores
the importance of study in this field. The program prepares students for careers
in preventive and developmental family services, program planning and evaluation,
and supervision of agencies serving children and families.
Although students accepted into this program have diverse backgrounds, most often
they have an undergraduate degree in one of the social sciences and a basic understanding
of research procedures. Course requirements are flexible. In consultation with
faculty advisors, students develop a program of study based on their experience
and research interests. A minimum of 30 credits hours of coursework, including
six thesis credits, as well as one course in research methods and one in statistics
is required to complete the degree. Students are encouraged to include relevant
courses from related academic areas in their plan of study. The Child Development
Learning Center provides the opportunity to work with young children. Numerous
community agencies offer opportunities for selected students to work with adults
and children in a variety of contexts.
A limited number of graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis
each year. Students interested in an assistantship should send a letter to the
Associate Dean, College of Education and Human Development, requesting to be considered.
M.Ed.: The M.Ed. in Instructional Technology is designed to help Pre K-12 educators
make the best and most effective use of existing and emerging technology. The
36-credit hour program includes courses in the Foundations of Education (6 credits);
General Instructional Technology core (21 credits); and specialty electives in
Educational Technology (9 credits). Foundation courses are intended to give students
a comprehensive perspective of the changing field of Education, including the
latest research, policy, political movements, trends and innovations. The electives
allow students to pursue individual interests and/or those suggested by their
employment situations.
Programs provide practicing teachers and advanced professionals in literacy the
opportunity to explore current issues of literacy research and instruction with
nationally recognized faculty in an atmosphere that encourages discussions and
inquiry. While Maine is a national leader in many measures of literacy achievement
in schools, changing global needs require continual examination and implementation
of best literacy practices. Coursework, with faculty who have extensive experience
with schools and public school students, balances theoretical and practical issues
to inform and change literacy practices. Because all literacy courses require on-going practical classroom experiences,
applicants seeking admission to graduate courses and programs in literacy must
have a minimum of one year of teaching experience.
Master’s Programs in Literacy for Elementary or Secondary Education (M.A., M.S., or M.Ed.)
These programs prepare beginning literacy specialists and individuals to become
more skilled in teaching. There are two options at the master’s level: Literacy
Specialist or an individually designed master’s degree. The master programs in
literacy are offered as a cohort in various sites around the state. The cohort
is a group of students who will take all required courses together in a single
sequence. Cohorts begin on a regular basis, depending on enrollment.
Literacy Specialist (ERL)
This program leads to Maine certification as Literacy Specialist, K-12. Applicants
must hold certification in either elementary or secondary education and have two
years of successful teaching. Basic requirements consist of a core of 27 credits
of coursework in literacy and nine credit hours in related fields. Degrees are
awarded on successful completion of courses and either a written comprehensive
exam or portfolio submitted to the academic advisor during the last semester of
coursework. Courses are available throughout the year, but the clinical experience,
ERL 569, is offered only in the summer.
Literacy Specialist Program Requirements include:
ERL 517 Literature for Children 3
Or
ERL 518 Literature for Young Adults 3
ERL 534 Literacy and Language Development 3
ERL 535 Current Practices in Reading 3
ERL 536 Writing Process 3
ERL 552 Seminar in Teacher 3
ERL 553 Literacy Assessment 3
ERL 569 Clinical Practices: Teaching Chidren with Difficulties in Literacy 6
ERL 601 Seminar in Reading 3
In addition, students, in consultation with their advisor, will select three
courses concentrating in one area or developed as an interdisciplinary theme across
several areas, such as computer technology, special institutes, measurement, special
education, multiculturalism, educational administration, counselor education or
curriculum.
Individually Designed M.Ed. Program in Literacy Education
This 33-credit hour degree option is designed to further knowledge of literacy
education, the processes and research of reading, writing, listening and speaking.
It does not lead to an additional Maine certification. Students complete requirements in a core of at least 15 hours of literacy courses.
Additional electives are chosen in consultation with advisors to complete the
individually designed program of study.
Suggested Literacy Courses:
ERL 517 Literature for Children 3
Or
ERL 518 Literature for Young Adults 3
ERL 534 Literacy and Language Development 3
ERL 535 Current Practices in Reading 3
ERL 536 Writing Process 3
ERL 537 Literacy Across the Curriculum 3
ERL 552 Seminar in Teacher Research 3
ERL 601 Seminar Reading 3
Electives Seminar or practicum 3
Individually Designed M.Ed. with a Concentration in Early Literacy (EEL)
This concentration provides pre-K to grade two practitioners with in-depth knowledge
and increased expertise in early literacy research, theory, and practice. The
33-credit hour program, designed in consultation with an advisor, requires a core
of 12-18 credits in early literacy, 3 credits in research, 3 credits in a seminar
or practicum, and 9 or more credit hours from special education or literacy. Courses
in the concentration are available as electives to students in other graduate
programs.
Core Courses in Early Literacy Concentration:
EEL 531 Observing Young Learners to Inform Instruction 3
EEL 542 Writing: Pre-school to Age 8 3
EEL 543 Books for Young Children 3
EEL 544 Research on Reading Acquisition 3
EEL 545 Intervention for Reading Difficulties 3
EEL 546 Seminar: Teaching and Learning in Early Literacy 3
Individually Designed M.Ed. Program in Secondary English
This option for teachers is planned individually with a faculty advisor and includes
graduate coursework in literacy education, pedagogy and English. The 33-hour program
includes coursework requiring field experiences.
Suggested Literacy and Education Courses:
ERL 518 Young Adult Literature 3
ERL 535 Current Practices in Reading 3
ERL 536 Writing Process 3
ERL 537 Literacy Across the Curriculum 3
ERL 552 Seminar in Teacher Research 3
ERL 601 Seminar in 3
Certificate of Advanced Study in Literacy Education
This program provides background with advanced theoretical and research understandings
from theory and research as well as implications and applications for literacy
programs and teaching. Participants will complete two C.A.S./Doctoral seminars
in literacy. Students completing a minimum of a 30-hour C.A.S. in Language Arts
have two options:
Option 1: Individually Designed C.A.S. in Literacy
This program is for classroom teachers looking to improve their theoretical understanding,
classroom practices, and professional skills. A master’s degree in literacy or
related field is required. Students and advisors plan an individually designed
program that combines advanced coursework in specific areas of literacy with other
professional and academic areas such as human development, psychology, language
and literature, research, administration and supervision. This C.A.S. does not
lead to further certification.
Option 2: C.A.S. in Curriculum Coordination and Instructional Supervision in
Literacy
This program is for classroom teachers looking to improve their theoretical understanding,
classroom practices, and professional leadership skills. It prepares students
for positions such as literacy consultant, and supervisor or administrator of
literacy programs. Applicants for Maine and C.A.S. in literacy certification must
hold a master’s degree in literacy, a valid teacher’s certificate, and have three
years of successful teaching experience. Students will complete advanced coursework
in literacy education in consultation with advisors, and must select courses to
show evidence of basic knowledge in the areas of supervision and evaluation of
personnel, organizational theory and planning, educational leadership, educational
philosophy and theory, effective instruction, curriculum development, staff development,
and teaching the exceptional student in the regular classroom.
Doctoral Program in Literacy Education (Ed.D.)
Ed.D.: The doctoral program in Literacy Education is designed for individuals exhibiting
leadership in literacy, such as curriculum development, teacher research, publishing,
professional presentations, and theoretical research traditions. It prepares candidates
for university positions, positions in administration and supervision of literacy
programs at the local, state and federal level, textbook publishing firms, and
various departments of government. Each program is developed in relation to the
student’s background and to the requirements of the degree. A primary function
of the program is to develop competency in diverse educational research strategies
as a significant means of advancing knowledge. Applicants must interview with
the literacy faculty to assess long-range goals and provide evidence of successful
teaching experience, a record of professional leadership and responsibilities,
and samples of professional writing. Application information is available from
the Graduate School. Additional information may be obtained from the faculty.
Program of Study for the Ed.D. in Literacy Education
(Must be approved by entire literacy area faculty before submission to the Graduate
School)
- Literacy Coursework (minimum 15 credit hours). At least four seminars (ERL 590)
must be completed at C.A.S./doctoral Level. It is assumed the student is a recent
graduate of a literacy master’s degree program. For students with different backgrounds,
a core of at least 15 credits of prerequisite literacy master degree coursework
is required.
- Research Methods (minimum 12 credit hours). Students are required to complete
a minimum of 12 hours selected from courses such as the following in consultation
with their doctoral program committee. (Prerequisite-EDS 521 Statistical Methods
& SPSS Lab); Quantitative course, e.g. EDS 697 Advanced Educational Research
I; EDS 571 Qualitative Methods. Advanced course in quantitative or qualitative
research methods (at least one); Dissertation Pilot Course (or approved research
course within literacy area).
- Elective Coursework (minimum 12 credit hours outside of Literacy).
- Practicum Coursework. EDG 657 Educational Practicum; EDU 690 Methods of College
Teaching.
- Dissertation Research. EDS 699 Graduate Thesis (minimum-six credits).
Special Programs in Literacy
Reading Recovery
(For further information, call the Center for Literacy (207) 581-2438.)
The College of Education and Human Development is a regional Reading Recovery
Teacher Leader and Teacher Training Site. Interested applicants must have the
involvement of the superintendent and school board in order to apply for Teacher
Leader or Teacher Training. Reading Recovery coursework may be applied to graduate
programs if approved by one’s faculty advisor. For further information, call the
Center for Early Literacy Recovery (207) 581-2438.
Literacy Collaborative
The Literacy Collaborative is a comprehensive model for school reform provided
as a collaboration between The University of Maine and elementary schools. It
is a long-term professional development program designed to provide a school-wide
approach to literacy instruction at grades K-2 and 3-6. The goal of the program
is to assure successful literacy acquisition for every child. Literacy Collaborative
schools make a long-term commitment to creating a system for successful primary
literacy education. This commitment includes:
– Development of a school leadership team
– Training and support of a literacy coordinator within the school
– Establishment of long-term professional development for every member of the
primary
– Provision of safety nets for at-risk children
– Data collection to monitor the progress.
During the first year of participation, a school identifies one member of the
K-2 or 3-6 staff to become the literacy coordinator. This person enrolls in a
yearlong, six credit course provided at the University. At the same time, the
school team participates in a team training provided by the University Literacy
Collaborative faculty member. Subsequently, the literacy coordinator provides
on-going professional development for teachers at the school site, and the school
team oversees and monitors the effectiveness of its literacy program. The school
team and literacy coordinator maintain on-going contact with the University Literacy
Collaborative faculty member as long as the school participates in the Collaborative.
National Writing Project
The Maine Writing Project is an affiliate of the National Writing Project, a
network of educators at all levels dedicated to the improvement of the teaching
of writing across the curriculum. Students may be nominated by peers or administrators,
or may nominate themselves for participation in the summer invitational institute.
The institute focuses on current theory, research, and effective practices in
composing for learning. Participants engage in developing and sharing best teaching
practices by crafting their own creative and expository writing, and creating
a presentation in the area of their teaching expertise. Participants earn six
graduate credits that fit most College of Education and Human Development programs
of graduate study. At the completion of the institute, participants become Teacher/Consultants
in the National Writing Project Network. Call Dr. Rich Kent for more information
on nominations (207) 581-2438.
Graduate programs in Science Education provide coursework in professional education
and in a specialized science or environmental field. Studies usually include specialization
in a specific area such as a physical, biological or earth science, and an emphasis
on a specific level such as elementary or secondary. Specialization in environmental
education includes environmental studies or natural resources, marine education,
and environmental problems.
Master’s candidates should have degrees in a specific science or science education.
Non-thesis (M.Ed.) students complete a 33-credit hour program. Students in a M.S.
or M.Ed. Science Education program take 15-18 credit hours in a major science
subject area. Students in Environmental Education take 18 credit hours in general
or specific environmental studies, including basic science as well as humanities
and social sciences. Study may be broadened to include areas such as outdoor education,
recreation, and community education.
The M.Ed. Plus Certification program allows the student to satisfy the Maine
requirements for secondary science teacher certification while completing the
30-credit hour core and 12 credits of electives. The program includes one full
semester of teaching internship in a local school.
C.A.S.: The C.A.S. program in Science Education includes an individually planned
course of study developed by the student and advisor. The program may include
half the work in professional education and the other half in an area of concentration
such as science or environmental studies.
Masters: The 33-semester hour Master’s program is individually planned by the
student and advisor within the regulations of the College and the Graduate School.
Six credits must be in two seminars or in a seminar and a practicum. The program
includes a minimum of 15 credit hours in social studies and professional education
courses, 12 in social sciences, and 6 credit hours of electives. A Master of Arts
and/or a Master of Science degree program would include 12 credit hours in academic
fields of the social sciences, 12 in social studies and professional education,
and 6 credit hours centering around thesis work.
C.A.S.: The C.A.S. in Social Studies Education is a 30- credit hour program designed
to improve the performance and effectiveness of teachers and administrators as
educators. The C.A.S. program includes 12 credit hours in social studies education,
9 in related course work in professional education, and 9 semester hours in the
social sciences.
Graduate programs in Special Education prepare educators to meet national standards
of excellence in communication skills, professional knowledge, and teaching competence.
Programs of study are offered for both entry-level and experienced professionals
and include certification and non-certification options.
Certification Options
Teacher of Students with Mild/Moderate Disabilities (M.Ed.)
This 45-credit hour program leads to state certification as Teacher of Students
with Disabilities (K-8 or 7-12). It is designed for students who have a background
in elementary or secondary education or have experience working with students
with disabilities, and who can document competency and prior coursework in child/adolescent
development and adapting instruction for students with disabilities (SED 402 or
the equivalent). Applicants who have not met these prerequisites may be admitted
for part-time study if they are currently employed in work with students with
disabilities. Prerequisite coursework (child/adolescent development and SED 402
or the equivalent) must be taken prior to enrolling in courses for the M.Ed.
Educational Specialists for Students with Severe Disabilities (M.Ed.)
This 45-credit hour program leads to state certification as an Educational Specialist
for Students with Severe Disabilities. It is designed for students who have a
background in elementary or secondary education, but may be appropriate for students
with undergraduate majors in related fields such as child development, psychology,
communication disorders, occupational and physical therapy, and nursing.
Combined Concentration (M.Ed. or C.A.S.)
This option is designed for students who have prior professional experience working
with students with disabilities and who already hold certification in special
education or are not interested in certification. With a faculty advisor, students
select courses around their unique needs and interests. Courses are drawn from
Special Education and other areas in the College of Education and Human Development.
M.Ed. programs are structured around a common core and typically require 36 credit
hours of study, depending on student background. C.A.S. programs require a minimum
of 30 credits beyond the M.Ed.
Specialties within the combined concentration include: Behavior Disorders, Learning
Disabilities and Early Literacy.
Special Education Administration/Consultant
Candidates with the appropriate educational and professional background have
the option of structuring the combined concentration to meet Maine certification
requirements in the categories of Special Education Administration or Special
Education Consultant (C.A.S. only).
Special Education Administration (M.Ed. or C.A.S.)
The Special Education Administration option combines study in Special Education
with study in Educational Leadership. It can be structured to lead to certification
in the State of Maine as a Special Education Administrator for candidates who
are already certified in Special Education or a related services field and who
can document at least three years of successful teaching experience as a special
educator or related services provider. M.Ed. programs typically require 42 credit
hours of graduate study, depending on student background. C.A.S. programs are
individually designed with a faculty advisor and require a minimum of 30 post-Master’s
graduate credits.
The Special Education Consultant option is for candidates who have a prior Master’s
degree in Special Education or a related services field, are already certified
in Special Education, and have at least three years of successful teaching experience
as a special educator. Programs of study are individually designed with a faculty
advisor and require a minimum of 30 post-Master’s graduate credits.
Other Information
Fieldwork and internships are an important component of all graduate programs
in Special Education. Faculty and students are an integral part of the social
and educational service community in Maine, and close relationships are maintained
with public schools and community agencies. Faculty and students also have the
opportunity to participate in projects sponsored by the Institute for the Study
of At-Risk Students, the Center for Early Literacy, and the Center for Community
Inclusion, Maine’s University Affiliated Program.
For admission to a graduate program in Special Education, students must meet
basic standards of the Graduate School and special eligibility requirements (identified
above) of the program. Applicants may be invited for a personal interview with
the Special Education faculty. Students should request financial aid information
from the University’s Student Financial Aid Office. Stipends are sometimes available
through grants from the U.S. Office of Education. Eligible applicants will be
notified by Special Education faculty if stipends are available.
Faculty specialists employ technology to measure and analyze physical response
and development to provide understanding and application of the theory and techniques
of kinesiology, health and fitness. Areas of concentration include Curriculum
and Instruction, Exercise Science and Adaptive Physical Education. Graduate assistantships
are available on campus and with community agencies. Thesis and non-thesis options
are offered.
The Master’s degree is granted upon completion of a sequenced program of study,
which includes a minimum of 33 credit hours, followed by a comprehensive written
and oral examination for the M.Ed. or completion of a 30 credit hour program including
a thesis for the M.S. degree.
Robert A. Cobb, Ed.D. (Springfield, 1969), Dean of the College of Education and Human Development,
Professor of Education. Aspirations of youth and adults, school policy development,
educational leadership.
Richard Ackerman, Ed.D. (Harvard, 1989), Associate Professor. Educational Leadership. Leadership
formation, school organization, professional development.
Elizabeth J. Allan, Ph.D. (The Ohio State University, 1999), Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership.
Higher education, equity policy, gender and education, policy discourse analysis.
James Artesani, Ed.D. (West Virginia University, 1992), Associate Professor, Special Education.
Positive behavioral practices, severe disabilities, transition programs.
Rosemary Bamford, Ed.D. (Georgia, 1977), Professor, Literacy, and Site Coordinator for Reading
Recovery. Literature for children and young adults, language arts and writing
processes.
Marc D. Baranowski, Ph.D. (Pennsylvania State, 1977), Associate Professor of Human Development.
Adolescent and adult development, gerontology, family stress.
Mary Bird, M.Ed. (Harvard University, 1987), Instructor, Science Education and Environmental
Education. Learning/teaching science in informal settings.
Edward N. Brazee, Ed.D. (Northern Colorado, 1975), Professor, Middle level education. Curriculum
development, young adolescents.
Phyllis E. Brazee, Ed.D. (Northern Colorado, 1976), Associate Professor, Teacher Education. Curriculum
and Foundations with emphases in gender studies and peace education.
Dorothy Tysse Breen, Ph.D. (Wisconsin, 1987), Associate Professor, Counseling Education. Children
and adolescents, developmental guidance, rural counseling.
Stephen A. Butterfield, Ph.D. (Ohio State, 1984), Professor, Kinesiology and Physical Education. Adaptive
physical education, motor skills development, special education.
Sandra Caron, Ph.D. (Syracuse, 1986), Professor, Family Relations. Human sexuality, AIDS and
families, sexuality education and curriculum development.
James Chiavacci, Ph.D. (University of Colorado-Denver, 1987), Instructional Technologist. Technology
in the classroom.
Theodore Coladarci, Ph.D. (Stanford, 1980), Professor, Educational Psychology. Statistics, research
methodology.
Nellie Cyr, Ph.D. (University of Pittsburgh, 1997), Assistant Professor, Kinesiology and
Physical Education. Exercise physiology and epidemiology.
William E. Davis, Ph.D. (Connecticut, 1968), Director, Institute for the Study of Students At
Risk; Professor, Special Education. Issues in special education, at-risk children
and families, school reform.
Gordon A. Donaldson, Jr., Ed.D. (Harvard, 1976), Professor, Educational Leadership. Rural school administration,
the principalship.
John Donovan, Ph.D. (University of Buffalo, 2002), Assistant Professor, Mathematics Education.
Secondary, post-mathematics education.
Suzanne Estler, Ph.D. (Stanford, 1978), Associate Professor, Educational Leadership, Higher
Education. Decision-making, change and policy processes, diversity in colleges
and universities.
Janet Fairman, Ph.D. (Rutgers, 1999), Assistant Research Professor. Public policy, school reform,
assessment.
Abigail Garthwait, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 2000). Assistant Professor, Instructional Technology.
Appropriate integration of technology in K-12 classrooms.
Dianne L. Hoff, Ed.D. (University of Louisville, 1998). Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership.
School legal issues, special school populations, the superintendency and the principalship.
Walter J. Harris, Ph.D. (Syracuse, 1973), Director, Center for Research and Evaluation; Professor,
Special Education. Educational policy, behavior disorders in children and adolescents,
issues in special education.
Diane Jackson, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 2000), Clinical Instructor, Special Education. Adapting
instruction for students with special needs, math methods in special education.
Edward Jadallah, Ph.D. (Ohio State, 1984), Associate Professor, Social Studies Education. Curriculum
and instructional design/evaluation.
Richard Kent, Ph.D. (Claremont, 2002), Assistant Professor. Literacy. Portfolio pedagogy,
adolescent male underachievement in literacy, innovative middle school and high
school classrooms.
Janice V. Kristo, Ph.D. (Connecticut, 1979), Professor, Literacy. Integration of the language
arts, literature, reading development, and classroom-based research.
Robert A. Lehnhard, Ph.D. (Ohio State, 1984), Associate Professor, Kinesiology and Physical Education.
Exercise physiology.
Mary Ellin Logue, Ed.D. (University of Massachusetts, 1984), Assistant Professor, Early Childhood
Education. Social development, special education.
Owen J. Logue, Ed.D. (Vanderbilt, 1992), Assistant Dean for Academic Services. Recruitment
and retention factors impacting educators, predictors of success among deaf higher
education leaders.
Mary Ann McGarry, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 1994), Assistant Professor, Science and Environmental
Education. Wetlands, water research for teachers.
Sarah Mackenzie, Ed.D. (Maine, 2002), Assistant Professor. Educational Leadership. Collective
efficacy and collaborative climate in Maine high schools.
George Marnik, Ed.D. (Maine, 1997), Clinical Instructor. Educational Leadership. Change process
in high schools, the principalship.
John Maddaus, Ph.D. (Syracuse, 1987), Associate Professor, Teacher Education. Social and historical
foundations of education, educational policy, school choice, parent- teacher communications.
Mary Madden, Ph.D. (University of Maine, 2001), Assistant Research Professor. Development
and education of adolescent girls.
Craig Mason, Ph.D. (University of Washington, 1993), Associate Professor, Educational Psychology.
Quantitative/developmental psychology.
Robert M. Milardo, Ph.D. (Pennsylvania State, 1982), Professor, Human Development. Family/domestic
violence, social networks, friendship/kin relationships.
Sidney Mitchell, Ph.D. (McGill, 2001), Assistant Professor, Educational Psychology. Student motivation
and low achievement, teacher as researcher.
Paula Moore, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 1991), Associate Professor, Literacy. Reading Recovery,
Vygotskian interpretation, redesigning primary education.
Gert Nesin, Ph.D. (University of Georgia, 2000), Clinical instructor, Teacher Education.
Middle level education, curriculum integration, students at risk.
Eric A. Pandiscio, Ph.D. (University of Texas at Austin, 1994), Associate Professor, Math Education.
Secondary math education, geometric construction software.
Constance M. Perry, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 1976), Professor, Teacher Education. Values education,
moral development, instructional strategies.
Anne E. Pooler, Ed.D. (University of Maine, 1975), Associate Dean for Academic Services; Associate
Professor. Curriculum development with emphasis on social studies.
Glenn Reif, Ed.D. (Virginia Tech., 1990), Associate Professor, Kinesiology and Physical
Education. Physical fitness of children, pedagogy, psychomotor domain activities,
standards-based instruction and assessment.
James A. Rog, Ed.D. (Massachusetts, 1979), Associate Professor. Teacher Education Staff Development,
creating successful working conditions, instruction/assessment.
Gary Schilmoeller, Ph.D. (University of Kansas, 1977), Associate Professor, Human Development. Support
for families with members with a disability.
Janet E. Spector, Ph.D. (Stanford, 1983), Assistant Professor, Special Education. Measurement
and evaluation, research methodology, dyslexia/learning disabilities, early literacy.
Sydney Carroll Thomas, Ph.D. (University of Rochester, 1993), Associate Professor, Counseling Education.
Human development in educational contexts, counseling philosophy and theory, politics
of social class in schools.
Shihfen Tu, Ph.D. (University of Washington, 1994). Assistant Professor, Educational Psychology.
Cognition and perception.
Suzanne Tyler, Ph.D. (University of Maryland, 1986), Associate Professor. Kinesiology and
Physical Education, Higher Education. Sprots psychology, social psychology of
sport, athletic administration, women in sports.
Herman G. Weller, Ed.D. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1990), Associate
Professor, Science Education. Computer-based science learning, students’ misconceptions
of science.
Jane Wellman-Little, (CAS, University of Maine, 1997), Clinical Instructor, Teacher Education. Developmental
reading, Reading Recovery.
Lucille Zeph, Ed.D. (Vanderbilt, 1983), Director, University Affiliated Program; Associate
Professor, Special Education. Severe disabilities, public school integration,
educational leadership.