Advances in technology can accommodate diverse learning styles and performance levels, liberate teachers and students from the “one size fits all” model of education, enable students from dissimilar backgrounds to experience a common sense of accomplishment, provide bridges from school to career, and foster lifelong learning. A universal priority is the need to upgrade the teacher work force to enable all students to succeed in science, mathematics and technology. The Master of Science in Educational Technology – Science Track will reinforce, expand and extend the College’s tradition of involvement with the professional growth of teachers.
From its earliest years, Ramapo College has earned widespread recognition for its initiatives in effecting change through staff development programs geared to elementary and secondary educators throughout the surrounding region. In addition to in-service institutes and workshops tailored to areas of defined need by school districts, the College has conducted multi-year programs centered on curricular reforms in mathematics and science which have earned acclaim. Since 1994, the College has been the recipient of competitive grant funding exceeding $2.6 million dollars from the National Science Foundation and New Jersey State Department of Education for teacher enhancement projects in science and technology. Escalating calls for graduate programs directed at the needs and concerns of the professional education community have spurred the College to design focused graduate studies grounded in the College conceptualization of its leadership mission in the improvement of pre-college education.
The instructors were very knowledgeable and supportive. I became much more proficient in applications I was already familiar with due to the rigor of the assignments that we completed for coursework. New applications were introduced to stretch our exposure to emerging technologies.
Creating a web-based portfolio where we could post all of our assignments is genius, and has a practical application for all teachers as well as students.
The MSET department is very accessible. Dr. Russo and Joyce Wilson are always prompt in their communications with students and always provide explicit information so you can accomplish your goals.
– Christine Green, Class of ’14
The experience I have had as a graduate student in the MSET program has been very positive. I am a teacher and coach at Indian Hills high school and also the varsity basketball coach, so life is quite busy as I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Educational Technology. I have learned so much from this program.
The professors have all been great to work with in terms of getting the work done and being available for any other help that is needed. It has been so great learning about learning how to navigate and create websites and new technology.
Joyce Wilson was a huge help to me in the technology office. She was always so kind to me with making sure payments and paperwork was in on time. Also, Dr. Russo was so helpful in helping me get started on the road to success.
I am so happy to be graduating with my master’s degree in May 2015!
– Julie Haledjian, Class of ’15
As I am looking back at the dynamics of the MSET curriculum at Ramapo College, I am very confident that I made the right decision entering the program. My professors have challenged and guided me through rigorous courses, while also creating an exciting learning environment and open community. Going back to college was difficult, but with the help of the faculty, I quickly adjusted so I could meet the demands of each class.
The MSET program not only pushes students to excel in academics, but most of all creates the opportunity for graduate students to logically apply the knowledge in their classrooms. I remember that while working on Moodle Lessons at Ramapo College, I was able to apply them right away in my Geometry class. It gave my students great opportunity to review the chapter in the comfort of their house and, at the same time, I was able to retrieve all their work on the Smart Board so students were able to see and compare their work in class.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity of being part of the Ramapo College MSET program.
– Joanna Szurnicki, Class of ’12
Q. Do I need to take the GRE?
A. No.
Q. Is a teaching certificate required?
A. Although greater than 90% of our students are certified teachers, certification is not required to enter the program and complete the degree. However, the MSET degree does not come with teacher certification.
Q. When can I enter the program?
A. The program has Spring (January), Summer (May), and Fall (September) start dates.
Q. Does Ramapo have off-site cohorts in school districts?
A. Yes, we have several cohorts ranging from 8-20 teachers in districts across NJ. If you and your colleagues are interested in collaborating with us to start a cohort in your district, please contact Program Director, Dr. Rich Russo at rrusso@ramapo.edu – 201-684-7899.
Q. Do I need a minimum undergraduate GPA?
A. A minimum 3.0 GPA is the program standard, but exceptions are made for students who consult with the director and enroll as non-degree students, maintaining a 3.0 for the first two courses in the program.
Q. Do I need to maintain a minimum GPA in the program?
A. A 3.0 is needed for graduation.
Q. How many classes are offered in the Summer?
A. Several classes are offered in both Summer I and Summer II. Check the current class schedule to determine what is available.
Q. How long does it take to complete the program?
A. It usually takes 2 years to complete the program.
Q. When & where are classes held?
A. At Ramapo, core classes are held Friday evenings and/or Saturday mornings. In partner school districts, core courses meet one night a week. During the fall and spring, electives meet one night per week. Summer courses meet during the day and/or evenings.
Q. How many courses can I take per semester?
A. One core course is recommended for the fall & spring semesters; special permission is needed to take more than two.
Q. What is the cost per semester hour for NJ residents? For non-residents?
A. Please visit the Office of Student Accounts Website for current tuition and fees information.
Q. Is a thesis necessary?
A. The “Practicum in Learning Theory Project” is a requirement for all students and is taken with “Tools for the Development of Instruction.” A capstone to the entire sequence of course experiences requiring: the conceptualization, operational planning and field execution of a self-contained web-based curricular project. Students work with a faculty mentor who helps them through their final project. All project proposals must be approved at the inception by the director.
Q. Are there exams in the courses?
A. A final course project to be submitted at the end of semester or session substitutes in almost all cases for an exam.
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