Selected Studies in Education, B.S.

Explore issues in education and learning through this unique multidisciplinary program that is tailored to individual interests, preparing graduates for a variety of careers inside and outside educational institutions.

This program draws on the interdisciplinary strength and social justice focus of the School of Education while pulling from the expertise of faculty who teach across Syracuse University. It is an innovative major that incorporates various areas of study, disciplines, and theoretical frameworks to gain a broad understanding of learning and education policy and practice. Students deepen their studies by completing at least one internship and by specializing in one of five focus areas:

• Post-Secondary and Human Services Fields
• Cultural Foundations of American Schooling: Schooling and Diversity
• Education, Technology, and Media
• Physical Activity: Sport, Coaching, and Recreation
• Pre-Teaching: The Study of Teaching, Learning, and Inclusion

Why Selected Studies at Syracuse?

• 98% of School of Education graduates are employed or in graduate school within 6 months.
• Complete more than 270 hours of experiences on campus and in the community, including field placements, internships, shadowing opportunities, global experiences, or several smaller intensive projects.
  • Recent placements include: Everson Art Museum; HopePrint Inc. Refugee Support; Rescue Mission; Syracuse and Central New York schools (classrooms, libraries, student counseling); Syracuse University Athletic Department, Center for International Service, Partnership for Inclusive Education; School of Education Academic Services, Alumni Relations, InclusiveU, Marketing and Communications
• Master’s degree fast tracks in Cultural Foundations of Education, Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, or School Counseling, where highly motivated students can use their final year of undergraduate study to complete courses towards a master’s degree—saving time and money!
• Selected Studies in Education is not tied to a state teacher certification program, giving you the flexibility to study and explore a wide breadth of education-related topics without having to follow a teacher certification track.
• Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad trips or semester-long programs around the world. School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.
• Continue your graduate studies at the School of Education with our SOE 50% Master’s and Certificate of Advanced Study Scholarships.

As a School of Education student, you’ll enjoy small classes, personal advising, and a close-knit community with all the benefits of attending a dynamic research institution. You’ll work closely with our faculty of nationally recognized scholars as you develop your professional identity and portfolio and receive tailored career advising.

Graduates pursue careers and further studies in fields such as:

• Coaching, Recreation, and Athletic Advising
• Community, Human, and Mental Health Services
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
• Higher/Post-secondary Education
• Instructional Design
• Law and Policy
• Library Science
• School Counseling
• Teaching and School Administration

Program Details

As a student in the Selected Studies program, you may choose one of five focus areas:

• Cultural Foundations of American Schooling: Schooling and Diversity: Work with youth in non-school settings such as government or social agencies that focus on public schooling, or get a foundation for graduate work in law, public policy, educational leadership or school/government administration. Coursework emphasizes philosophies and issues related to culture, race, socioeconomic class, and gender as applicable to educational practice. Includes an opportunity for a Fast Track M.S. in Cultural Foundations of Education.
• Pre-Teaching: Study of Teaching, Learning, and Inclusion: Pursue a career in teaching or another school context through graduate study, after completion of their undergraduate degree. Courses in this focus area may include the study of early childhood, elementary, or secondary education, as well as issues of diversity, disability, special education, and inclusion within schools. Students in this focus area will have significant experiences in public schools during the course of study.
• Education, Technology, and Media: Explore the integration of media and technology in teaching and learning contexts. Students learn media literacy skills and gain an understanding of how popular culture influences the promotion and transmission of cultural values within our society. Includes an opportunity for a Fast Track M.S. in Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation.
• Post-Secondary and Human Services Fields: Work in a variety of educational settings, including higher education, counseling and student affairs, international education, and as non-teaching personnel in primary and secondary schools. Coursework includes an introduction to the general study and provision of human and social services to individuals, families, and communities in public and private human service agencies and organizations. Includes an opportunity for a Fast Track in Professional Counseling including the M.S. programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or School Counseling.
• Physical Activity: Sport, Coaching and Recreation: Coach athletes with and without disabilities in college, high school, or youth settings; officiate sports; become a personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, or group exercise leader; teach/coach youth sports and fitness in non-school settings such as YMCA/YWCA’s, Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs, and private and public sport/recreational facilities; sport or fitness entrepreneur; or a teaching career at a future point.

You’ll work closely with your advisor to design a personal degree plan based on your interests and professional goals. Students typically complete core education courses, a common liberal arts core, a major or minor in a liberal arts area, and several research methods courses. With careful advising and planning, students may add a second major or a minor from the College of Arts and Sciences without extending their time-to-completion.

Your first semester will likely include education and focus area classes, writing, math, and science. More information on academic requirements available in the Syracuse University Course Catalog.

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