David England, Dean
Stevenson Hall 1078
(707) 664-2832
web.sonoma.edu/education
Curriculum Studies and Secondary Education (CSSE)
Stevenson Hall 1078
(707) 664-3115
Early Childhood Studies (ECS)
Stevenson Hall 1078
(707) 664-3115
Educational Leadership and Special Education (ELSE)
Stevenson Hall 1078
(707) 664-3115
Literacy Studies and Elementary Education (LSEE)
Stevenson Hall 1078
(707) 664-3115
The mission of the School of Education at Sonoma State University is to advance excellence in the education profession through the professional preparation of teachers and educational leaders. Central to this mission is the offering of exemplary professional education programs based on sound theory and practice, current research, sensitivity to the needs of P-12 education, appreciation for diversity, and respect for all learners. It also includes the School’s active role in the social and educational growth of the communities we serve through various partnerships, projects, and initiatives.
The School of Education provides programs for students seeking a B.A. degree, preliminary credentials, certificates and specialist credentials, and graduate degrees.
Undergraduate students can pursue a major or a minor in Early Childhood Studies. These programs prepare students to pursue careers or graduate study in professions that involve work with young children, as well as qualifying them for the California Child Development Permit. The School of Education offers preliminary teaching credentials in multiple subject (elementary), single subject (middle school/secondary), and special education (Education Specialist: mild/moderate or moderate/severe). Other offerings include Added Authorizations, Reading and Language, Early childhood special Education, bilingual Authorizations (Spanish), and Pupil Personnel Services (PPSC), and Administrative Services credentials. All credential programs are accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
The School of Education offers an M.A. degree in Education with concentrations in curriculum, teaching, and learning; early childhood education; educational administration; reading; and special education. While School of Education programs are designed primarily for positions in public schools, graduates are prepared to work in non-teaching positions in education or related human service fields in both public and private sectors.
University coursework and field experiences provide rich learning opportunities for our students. In line with our mission of excellence in education, our vision of our graduates is that they:
- Are agents of individual growth and social change as well as models and advocates of the broader intellectual and social values of a democratic society;
- Are knowledgeable and thoughtful about the content and pedagogy in their fields of emphasis;
- Promote social, emotional, and moral growth and learning in their classrooms, schools, and communities;
- Design and engage in inclusive educational practices that respects human differences; and
- Continuously inquire, observe, study and reflect to improve as educators.
Coursework and field experiences in the School of Education emphasize the complex interaction of learning and teaching in the context of the diversity of California schools. Current educational theory and research provide the foundation for course and program offerings, with implications for practice drawn from theory/research and the realities of life in classrooms and schools. All programs provide substantive time for students to student teach, intern teach, or serve as administrative interns in schools. The School of Education works closely with area schools and school districts in a variety of partnerships. School of Education faculty collaborate with faculty in other departments and schools across the University in subject matter preparation, pedagogy, and field experiences. Admissions requirements are informed and regulated by the CSU as well as State and National Accrediting agencies. Prospective students should review the School of Education website regularly for current admissions requirements.
