Adolescent Social Studies M.S.T.

The programs build on candidates’ undergraduate majors in history or other social studies areas.

The programs are distinguished by exceptionally strong field experiences and by careful coordination of courses progressing from foundations and teaching methods to the development of a professional portfolio.

Application Deadlines

Fall: June 30
Summer (both sessions): April 15

Admissions Information

Browse the Admissions section for more about the application and financial aid processes.

General Teacher Education Program Admissions Requirements

3.0 GPA
Online application
Official transcript(s)
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)
Personal statement
Two letters of recommendation

Adolescence Social Studies applicants can choose among three programs:

This program prepares graduates to be classroom Social Studies teachers for grades 7-12.

Admissions Prerequisites

In accordance with New York State (NYS) requirements, applicants must have earned at least 21 credits in history (U.S. and non-U.S.) and/or geography. These requirements are in addition to Fordham's general admissions requirements.

In accordance with Fordham requirements, applicants must have 30 credits in history/geography and the social sciences, including coursework in anthropology or cultural studies; political science, government or civics; micro and macroeconomics; sociology; psychology; global connections; and the impact of science and technology on society.

The 21-credit NYS and the 30-credit Fordham requirements are counted concurrently, i.e. applicants' credits can fulfill both requirements. If candidates have not completed all prerequisites, they may be admitted conditionally and complete the necessary coursework while enrolled in the master's program. Please contact us for a transcript review.

Program Curriculum

All descriptions program courses are available in the GSE Bulletin.
This program prepares graduates to be classroom Social Studies teachers for students with disabilities.

Admissions Prerequisites

Applicants must complete or have completed 18 credits or more in social studies (history or another related subject) major or concentration including coursework related to the following:
- anthropology or cultural studies
- political science, government, or civics
- economics
- sociology
- geography
- psychology
- global connections
- the impact of science and technology on society
A candidate shall complete the 18 semester hours through a combination of study in United States history, world history, and geography. These requirements are in addition to Fordham's general admissions requirements.

Program Curriculum

Browse course schedules and descriptions and review a list of courses.
This program prepares graduates to be classroom Social Studies teachers and Special Education teachers with an extension in Social Studies.

Admissions Prerequisites

Applicants must have an earned degree in history or its equivalent with a minimum of 36 credits in social studies coursework. This content must include study in the coursework related to the following:
- anthropology or cultural studies
- political science, government, or civics
- economics
- sociology
- geography
- psychology
- global connections
- the impact of science and technology on society
In all, at least 21 credits must be in the study of history and geography. These requirements are in addition to Fordham's general admissions requirements.

Program Curriculum

Browse course schedules and descriptions and review a list of courses.

Fieldwork Requirements

In the fall and spring semesters of the first year, students are in classrooms for three full days per week: observation for three weeks, then student teaching, in the same classroom, for ten weeks.

In the fall and spring semesters of the second year, students are in classrooms for five full days per week: observation for two weeks, then student teaching, in the same classroom, for twelve weeks.

Certification Information

The program leads to a Master of Science in Teaching degree and initial New York State certification.

Teacher candidates who meet all program requirements, complete the course of study, and meet established field experience competencies are eligible for Fordham University’s endorsement for New York state initial certification in their program area.

Pass rates for Fordham’s initial teacher education graduates on the NYSTCE Teacher exams have been over 95% each year.

Programs are open to all who qualify; however, only U.S. citizens or international students who possess a U.S. Green Card or H1-B visa may be recommended for New York State teacher certification.