Site Navigation

Faculty of Education

Program Details

BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

(Return to Top)

Contact Information

Location:

Education Tower 1104

Student Information:

(403) 220-5621

Fax number:

(403) 282- 8479

Email address:

educsso@ucalgary.ca

Web page URL:

http://www.educ.ucalgary.ca/

Introduction

The education profession is changing constantly in response to a rapidly increasing body of knowledge about teaching and learning. In addition, the effectiveness of teachers depends to a large degree upon their ability to understand and address in a proactive manner the strong social, political, economic, and cultural influences upon education in Western nations. Therefore, the Faculty's programs are designed and modified continuously to prepare and support teachers with a strong background in the subject disciplines and whose first commitment is to providing students with the best possible opportunity to learn.

Programs in the Faculty are based on the belief that teachers' professional knowledge and skills are developed best in a context that includes collaborative and independent learning, case work, supervised participation in traditional and nontraditional educational organizations, and both small- and large-group scholarly activities.

Objectives

The Faculty of Education is organized to prepare teachers for kindergarten programs, for elementary and secondary schools, for community or workplace settings, and for graduate study in the field of education. The Faculty's programs reflect recognition of the fact that the teaching profession demands that teachers have a solid background in one or more academic disciplines and a demonstrable mastery of the knowledge and skills associated with effective teaching. As well, programs in the Faculty are intended to promote strong inquiry and life long professional growth, as well as university-school and community collaboration that will integrate theory with practice.

The Nature of Teacher Education at the University of Calgary

Recognizing that teaching is one of the most important and difficult professions in society, the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) at the University of Calgary promotes the view of a teacher as one who is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and deeply caring about the responsibilities associated with education.

Teaching and learning are complex acts, undertaken in diverse and uncertain environments. For this reason, the core idea that underlies teacher preparation in the MT program is that becoming a teacher requires not only the development of pedagogical skill and subject area knowledge, but also the cultivation of practical wisdom. This complex set of qualities is developed in the MT program by providing students with experiences that are learner focused, inquiry based and field oriented.

The Faculty of Education offers a two-year program for holders of approved degrees. All program graduates will be prepared for provincially recognized schools serving students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. There are two distinct but connected routes - the elementary education route (Kindergarten through Grade 6), and the secondary education route (Grades 7 through 12). Students must declare an emphasis in either elementary or secondary education and complete a block practicum in their chosen area. All students must also complete an observation-participation period in a community/workplace setting to enhance their understandings of teaching and learning. These placements allow teacher education students to observe and participate in teaching and learning in non-traditional settings. The experiences may widen career opportunities for many students and they will enrich the learning of all students. Community and workplace sites range over a broad spectrum of public and private organizations which serve the learning needs of children, teenagers, and adults, including seniors. All students in the program have an introductory 75-hour community/workplace experience in the first semester. Students may also choose a more extensive community/workplace experience in the fourth semester. In the four semesters of this program, learning experiences are integrated conceptually around a series of interrelated themes. "Courses" are offered as integrated thematic units. These thematic units are delivered through a lecture series, case-based tutorials, professional study seminars, independent inquiries, and field experiences.

Each thematic unit has an emphasis on particular knowledge and professional skills. Thematic units serve to integrate and guide students' learning experiences in group, individual and field contexts. There are six thematic units in the two-year program.

Year 1

Semester I

Education Teacher Preparation 503 Learning and Teaching (2.5 full course equivalents)

Semester II

Education Teacher Preparation 507 Curriculum Contexts and Studies (2.5 full course equivalents)

Year 2

Semester I

Education Teacher Preparation 510 (Praxis) (2.5 full-course equivalents)

Semester II

Education Teacher Preparation 512 (Identity, Diversity, and Integration) (2.5 full-course equivalents)

Career Opportunities

Eligibility to Teach in Alberta

It is important for students to note that becoming eligible to teach in Alberta is a two step process, requiring separate evaluations, by separate bodies: one provincial the other professional. The province of Alberta, through Alberta Education, issues teaching certificates. The Alberta Teachers Association, through the Teacher Qualifications Service (TQS) determines salary qualifications. Both (separate and distinct) evaluations are required to be eligible to teach in the public schools of Alberta. Students should not assume that being admitted to the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) and being certificated by Alberta Education means that they will receive full credit for their prior degrees from the TQS.

Certification

After the successful completion of the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) a student may be recommended for an Alberta Interim Professional Teaching Certificate.

Teaching Certificates are granted under the authority of the Minister of Education, upon the recommendation of the Faculty of Education.

All persons applying for certification as teachers in Alberta are subject to the following restrictions on eligibility:

Except where the Minister of Education decides otherwise, Alberta Education shall not issue a teaching certificate to a person who

(a) has been convicted of an indictable offence under the Criminal Code, or

(b) Alberta Education has reason to believe should not be issued a certificate, or

(c) is not a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant.

Appeals must be made in writing within 30 days of being advised of an Alberta Education decision not to issue a teaching certificate.

Teachers Certified in Other Jurisdictions

Teachers who have been certified to teach in other jurisdictions (other provinces and other countries) and who wish to teach in Alberta must contact Alberta Education, Teacher Development and Certification in Edmonton to have their credentials evaluated.

Certification Enquiries

All enquiries concerning certification should be directed to Alberta Education via

Email: Teacher.Certification@edc.gov.ab.ca;

Phone: (780) 427-2045 (for toll-free access anywhere in Alberta, first dial 310-0000)

Website: http://www.education.gov.ab.ca/k_12/teaching/Certification/

Teacher Qualifications for Salary Purposes

How students are evaluated for salary purposes is determined by the Teacher Qualification Service, Alberta Teachers Association, not by Alberta Education or the University of Calgary. In some cases, courses in prior degrees may not be considered for salary purposes. To determine how qualifications may be considered, please refer to the Principles for the Evaluation of Years of Teacher Education for Salary Purposes available on the Alberta Teachers Association website, or by writing to the address supplied below.

Forms used to apply for evaluation of qualifications for salary purposes may be obtained on the Alberta Teachers' Association website or by writing to:

Teacher Qualifications Service

The Alberta Teachers' Association

Barnett House, 11010 - 142 Street

Edmonton, Alberta

Canada T5N 2R1

Careers in Education

The majority of teacher education graduates can expect to work as kindergarten/elementary and/or secondary teachers. Indeed, the role of classroom teacher is one that permits graduates to work most closely with young people and allows for the greatest direct service to educational communities. The modern context of education demands that graduates be prepared to go beyond the traditional role of classroom teacher. To teach successfully, graduates must be prepared to work closely and effectively with students, colleagues, parents, and community in virtually every aspect of educational decision making. Furthermore, graduates must understand and embrace the fact that it is imperative that they extend their formal education throughout their careers. That is, successful completion of a teacher education program is only the beginning to a teacher's academic and professional learning.

Increasingly education students are finding employment in community and workplace settings. Teachers develop numerous skills that are highly valued in community, government and business organizations.

Many graduates will choose from one or more additional careers in education, nearly all of which require successful experience as a school-based practitioner, permanent professional certification, and a master's or doctoral degree in education:

· Curriculum developer

· Assessment designer

· Administrator

· Staff developer

· Staff officer for a teachers' professional association

· Author of instructional resources

· College instructor

· University professor

Student Affairs

Education Students Association

The Education Students Association (ESA) is a professional organization and a Student Local of the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA). Through its relationship with the administration of the Faculty of Education, it provides an important liaison between students and staff. It is expected that all Education students will join the society, participate in its social activities, and actively promote its professional interests.

Admission

Application Deadlines

Refer to the Applications for Admission Schedule at the front of this Calendar for application and documentation deadlines for BEd (Master of Teaching Program). Students are advised to check the website for the latest information.

Requirements

The Faculty of Education encourages applications from those who have had direct experience with children and/or adolescents in formal and informal settings and who have a broadly based educational background with sufficient depth in the areas that they wish to teach. Proficiency in the use of computer-based technology will be required in coursework and in schools.

The Faculty values the wide range of academic and professional backgrounds held by the students admitted into teacher education programs. For this reason, the Faculty has attempted to keep admission requirements as open as possible while still demonstrating respect for the academic disciplines which graduates must teach in schools.

Admission to the program is on a competitive basis by subject specialization. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

To be considered for admission, applicants to the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) must meet the requirements for admission to the University of Calgary, and possess the following:

  1. A degree with at least 15 full courses from an accredited post-secondary institution recognized by the University of Calgary.
  2. A minimum grade point average of 2.50.
  3. A Faculty of Education Statement in support of the application (a form is provided in the application package, which is available upon request).

Admission to the Faculty of Education shall be determined on the basis of the grade point average calculated over the most recent course work to a maximum of five full-course equivalents (University of Calgary courses and/or transferable courses taken at other institutions). All grades within a session will be included except where the number of courses taken within a session exceeds that required to fulfill (to a maximum of) five full-course equivalents, in which case the highest grades will be used.

For students currently completing a degree, Winter Session, Spring Session, and Summer Session grades will not count toward admissibility for the following Fall Session admission.

Diverse Qualifications

The Faculty recognizes that excellence in learning and preparation may mean more than academic excellence. Those applicants who feel they have achieved significant accomplishments outside the university, and/or overcome severe hardships that qualify them for entry into this program are encouraged to apply under the Diverse Qualifications Admission Policy. For details on this policy, see the main University Admissions section of this Calendar.

International Applicants

In addition to the admission requirements of this Faculty, applicants from other countries, whose first language is not English, must fulfill the English Language Proficiency requirements outlined in the main University Admissions section of this Calendar.

Aboriginal Admissions Policy

The Faculty of Education is committed to preparing aboriginal teachers for work in education in K-12 and community and workplace settings. A minimum of 4% of our admissions are available for aboriginal applicants. For further information about aboriginal admission policy and application deadlines please refer to www.ucalgary.ca/admissions/aboriginal_policy.

Elementary Route

Students interested in focusing on elementary education (Kindergarten to Grade 6) require an academic degree from a recognized university, with an academic area normally from the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, fine arts, cultural studies or communication. The elementary route of the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) requires graduates be prepared to teach across the subject areas. Graduates of the program must demonstrate an understanding of teaching in the elementary subjects of language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science, as well as physical education and the fine arts. Hence, applicants to the elementary route in the MT program should have a broad background in relevant disciplinary areas.

Applicants may apply for one of the specializations listed below:

General Elementary

Focuses on teaching Grades 1 to 6 with attention to all school subject areas.

Early Childhood Education

Emphasizes the developmental aspects of young children, how they learn, and how this impacts program planning for Kindergarten to Grade 3. A major field experience takes places in Kindergarten.

Elementary French

Focuses on teaching Grades K to 6 in French Immersion, francophone schools and FSL (French as a second language) programs. Applicants must be fully competent in oral and written French and demonstrate this in an interview.

Secondary Route

In addition to meeting the general admission requirements mentioned above, applicants for the secondary route require a strong academic background, equivalent to a degree with an academic major or the equivalent, in the subjects they propose to teach. For purposes of admission to the Faculty of Education, the following is deemed to be a major or the equivalent:

(a) a major as defined by the institution granting the 20 full-course degree; or

(b) a minimum of a five to seven full-course sequence in the areas defined in each section below, in which case only two full courses may be at the first year level.

Applicants should take into account that because it is crucial to have a body of knowledge in subject matter that is taught in Alberta secondary schools, breadth and depth of course work in a teaching specialization will be important in assessing a student's transcript.

Applicants may apply for one of the specializations listed below:

Art Education

Applicants must present a degree with a major in art.

Drama Education

Applicants must present a degree with a major in drama.

Language Arts

Applicants must present a degree with a major in English, or five full courses which cover the following areas: language, literacy, reading, literature, and composition.

French

Applicants must normally present a degree taken in French in one or more of the following areas: French literature, science, mathematics, history, or the equivalent. If the degree is not in French, applicants must have a major in French OR a degree with a minimum of five full course equivalents from five of the following areas: French culture, French-Canadian literature, French literature, linguistics, adolescent literature or children's literature. To teach in French Immersion, francophone schools and in FSL (French as a second language), applicants must be fully competent in oral and written French and demonstrate this in an interview.

Mathematics

Applicants must present a degree with a major in mathematics, or a five full-course sequence which includes six of the following areas: calculus, number systems, number theory, linear algebra, geometry, statistics and probability, applied mathematics, discrete mathematics, or history of mathematics.

It is strongly recommended that applicants present at least one half-course in computer science.

Music

Applicants must present a degree with a major in music. Secondary music teachers need strong executant ability on an instrument, a coherent understanding of music theory and history, sophisticated conducting and aural skills in a choral/instrumental environment, plus a working knowledge of appropriate repertoire and musical concepts. Applicants should be prepared to instruct in a beginner band/choral environment. Musical qualifications other than those listed will be evaluated as to their appropriateness for entry into the program.

Physical Education

Applicants must present a degree with a major in physical education or kinesiology. It is strongly recommended that applicants have completed courses or modules in games/activities that relate to school physical education programs.

Science

Applicants must present a degree with a major in biology, physics or chemistry or sequences of courses as defined below.

In addition, applicants are strongly encouraged to complete supporting course work in earth science, history and/or philosophy of science, the role of science and technology within society, and physical science (if the major is biology) or biological sciences (if the major is physics or chemistry). The completion of one or more research projects will be a highly valuable experience for teaching science at the secondary level.

Biology

Applicants who do not have a major in biology must present course work in five of the following nine areas: biochemistry, botany, cellular and molecular microbiology, ecology, evolutionary theory, genetics, human anatomy, physiology and zoology. (Other areas of knowledge which are important for secondary biology teachers include biological conservation, genetic engineering and immunology.)

Chemistry

Applicants who do not have a major in chemistry must present course work in five of the following six areas: inorganic, organic, physical, analytical chemistry, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics. Other areas of knowledge which are important for secondary teachers of chemistry are electrochemistry, industrial chemistry, and spectroscopy.

Physics

Applicants who do not have a major in physics must present course work in five of the following areas: atomic and nuclear physics, classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, geometric and physical optics, quantum mechanics, relativity theory, and thermodynamics. Other areas of knowledge which are important for secondary teachers of physics are acoustics, astronomy, atmospheric and environmental physics, and electronics.

Social Studies

As an integrated, multi-disciplinary school subject, secondary social studies requires an understanding of a number of specific disciplines. Normally, applicants may have degrees from a broad variety of backgrounds in the social sciences and humanities. Every application will be judged on its own merits. However, applicants must be able to demonstrate preparation in the content areas required for secondary social studies curriculum in Alberta and other jurisdictions. The emphasis is on broad preparation in the humanities and social sciences, within which history and geography are important components. Hence, applicants to the social studies program should have completed course work in:

History - Applicants should have evidence of course work in Canadian history, European history and world history. If there are courses listed with a major focus on history, but not labelled as such, these may be considered as suitable background.

Geography - Some attention is preferred to physical geography, human geography, or other courses with a focus on human interaction with physical and cultural environments.

Social Sciences - Applicants should also have course work in the social sciences (for example, political science, sociology, economics, anthropology, and archaeology).

In addition to those listed above, courses in general studies, cultural studies, women's studies, native studies, religious studies, Canadian studies, globalization, indigenous studies, international relations, philosophy and psychology are valuable as preparation for teaching social studies. Depending on specific content, such courses may be considered in place of courses listed above.

Requirements

To graduate, students must complete successfully, on a completed requirements/fail basis, the following thematic units:

EDTP 503 Learning and Teaching

EDTP 507 Curriculum Contexts and Studies

EDTP 510 Praxis

EDTP 512 Identity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The thematic units are delivered through a lecture series, case-based tutorials and inquiry seminars, professional study seminars, independent inquiries and field experiences.

General Regulations - BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

Registration

Students are expected to register on a full-time basis. Only students admitted to the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) or students with special permission from the Associate Dean of the Division of Teacher Preparation will be permitted to register in thematic units. Students who need to repeat a unit must wait until the unit is offered in the subsequent academic year.

All thematic units in the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) have a field experience component. The Dean may prohibit a student from registering or completing a thematic unit if it is believed that there is evidence to suggest that the student's physical and/or psychological health may be detrimental to students in schools and/or community and workplace settings.

Continuity of Program

Students must complete the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) within five years of initial registration. Upon successful completion of Semester 1, and subsequently at the end of Semester 2 and 3, students are allowed to request a leave of absence from the program for a period of one year. Students who wish to take a leave of absence must make a formal request in writing to the Associate Dean. Students who withdraw from the program may reregister within one academic year with the approval of the Associate Dean. Students must notify the Faculty of Education by March 1 of their intention to return for the following Fall semester and by October 1 for the following Winter semester. After one academic year, students will be required to reapply and compete with all other applicants for admission.

Residence

Except for the last thematic unit, Education Teacher Preparation 512, students are required to complete all program requirements at the University of Calgary. Students seeking to take Education Teacher Preparation 512 or an equivalent course off campus must obtain permission from the Associate Dean, Division of Teacher Preparation.

Attendance

Students are advised to read the general University Regulations regarding attendance in the section of this Calendar headed "Academic Regulations."

Students may be required to complete field experiences at sites other than the location in which they reside. Students' field experiences in community and workplace settings may be scheduled at various hours, including evenings and weekends.

Students must demonstrate satisfactory performance in all components of the thematic units. Participation in all activities related to those units is mandatory.

Failure to fully participate in case tutorials, professional seminars, and field based experiences will be reviewed by the faculty team responsible for the student's campus experiences. Students are advised that evaluations will include their day-to-day performance.

A student who does not meet the objectives for each thematic unit due to absence may apply to the Associate Dean of the Division of Teacher Preparation for a deferral of term work. Students are cautioned that, even under extenuating circumstances, added field or tutorial experience is not always available, and therefore, in such cases, permission to defer term work will be denied.

Professional Conduct

Prior to commencing field experiences, students must purchase the appropriate Handbook for the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) for the year in which they are registered. Students are governed by the Alberta Teachers' Association Code of Professional Conduct and by the University of Calgary Faculty of Education Student Code of Conduct contained in that handbook. Students are held accountable to these standards.

Academic Standing

All grades in the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) are awarded on a Completed Requirements (CR)/Fail basis. Students must successfully complete all units in a session in order to proceed to the next session.

Normally, a student will not be permitted to withdraw from a unit in order to avoid a failing grade in that unit. Due to the nature of BEd (Master of Teaching Program), students must withdraw in person. Students who need to repeat a unit must wait until the unit is offered in the subsequent academic year.

Repeated Units

Students may repeat a thematic unit only once and must receive the approval of the Associate Dean to reregister in a thematic unit.

Students who withdraw from a thematic unit or receive a failing grade in a unit and who receive permission to reregister must wait to reregister until the unit is offered in the subsequent academic year.

Withdrawal Dates

Withdrawal dates for thematic units may differ from those in general University regulations. For the precise dates, students must refer to the Handbook for the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) for their year of program.

Excessive Number of Withdrawals

Students will be required to withdraw from the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) if they have accumulated more than 2.5 full-course equivalent withdrawals while they are students in this program.

Unsatisfactory Academic Standing

Students are referred to the section on "Academic Standing" in the Academic Regulations section of this Calendar.

Standing in the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) is unsatisfactory when a student has received a failing grade in any thematic unit. Students who have unsatisfactory academic standing will be placed on probation. To reregister the student will be required to sign a performance contract. Information on performance contracts is available in the Handbook for the BEd (Master of Teaching Program).

In addition, students who receive a failing grade in any thematic unit will be required to present evidence of having made an attempt to overcome previous difficulties before they will be permitted a second registration in that unit.

Students who have unsatisfactory academic standing will be reinstated to satisfactory academic standing once they have successfully completed the unit in which they received a failing grade.

Students will be allowed an academic probation status only once while registered in the BEd (Master of Teaching Program). Students who receive a second failing grade will be required to withdraw permanently.

Students on Academic Probation

Students on probation will be required to withdraw permanently if they receive a second failing grade in a thematic unit.

Students placed on probation or who are required to withdraw will be advised in writing.

Students required to withdraw may not apply for readmission in the twelve month period following their withdrawal. Written application must be made to the Dean as part of the admissions process.

Criminal Record Check

All school boards and some community/workplace settings require a criminal record check, and this requirement will be applied to student teachers. Upon admission to the program students will be required to undergo a criminal record check prior to commencement of the field experience.

Combined Degree Programs

(Return to Top)

Introduction

In cooperation with other Faculties and Departments, the Faculty of Education offers a number of five-year combined degree programs. These programs require students to complete three years of study with the cooperating unit and then continue the final two years of their studies with the Faculty of Education.

Students admitted to combined degrees in previous years should consult the Faculty of Education Student Advisors for details about their programs.

BA (Canadian Studies)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

Graduates of Canadian Studies are in high demand as social studies teachers. Students must apply to the Faculty of Communication and Culture for admission to the combined program by April 1 of their second year of university studies. General Studies 300 and Canadian Studies 231 must be completed prior to application. Consult the Faculty of Communication and Culture section of this Calendar for details of the program.

BA or BSc (General Mathematics in Education)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

This program prepares specialist teachers of mathematics. It requires admission to the Faculty of Science. Students must apply to the Faculty of Science for the combined degree program no later than April 1 of their second year of university studies. Details of the program and lists of required and prerequisite courses are contained in the Faculty of Science section of this Calendar.

BKin (Pedagogy)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

This program requires first year admission to the Faculty of Kinesiology. Applications to the combined degree program will normally be considered from students in the Pedagogy Major of the BKin program at the conclusion of the second year of studies. The application deadline for the combined degree program is April 1. Details of the program are contained in the Faculty of Kinesiology section of this Calendar. Applications should be addressed to the Faculty of Kinesiology.

BFA (Visual Studies) or BFA (Drama Education)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

These programs require first year admission to the Faculty of Fine Arts. Students may apply to a combined degree program in their second year of study. Details of these programs are contained in the Faculty of Fine Arts section of this Calendar

BSc (Natural Sciences)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

(Return to Top)

This program is intended to offer a broad science education that will support teaching science in elementary and secondary schools. Students must apply to the Faculty of Science for the combined degree program no later than April 1 of their second year. Details of the program and a list of required and prerequisite courses are contained in the Faculty of Science section of this Calendar. Applicants are advised to consult the Division of Teacher Preparation for assistance in selecting a major in their BSc program that is appropriate for the range of school grades in which they wish to teach.

BA (French)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

(Return to Top)

This program is for specialist teachers of French. Students must apply to the Faculty of Humanities for the combined degree program no later than April 1 of their second year. Details of the program and lists of required and prerequisite courses are contained in the Faculty of Humanities section of this Calendar.

BMus (Music Education)/BEd (Master of Teaching Program)

This program is designed for students intending to teach music (both instrumental and choral) in the schools at the elementary or secondary level. It requires admission to the Faculty of Fine Arts. Students may apply to a combined degree program in their second year of study. Details of this program are contained in the Faculty of Fine Arts section of this Calendar.

Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies

(Return to Top)

Please refer to the Faculty of Medicine for more information.

Professional Diploma Programs

(Return to Top)

Introduction

The Faculty of Education sponsors a number of professional diploma programs leading to the Diploma of the Faculty of Education. This diploma provides for

(a) advanced study in an area in which a student has specialized undergraduate preparation; and

(b) study in a new field, such as a second teaching specialization, in which a student has minimal undergraduate preparation.

Professional diploma programs are under review and many courses supporting the diploma programs are no long being offered. Please consult the Student Services Office and the appropriate Division for more information.

Admission

Application Deadlines

Refer to the Applications for Admission Schedule at the front of this Calendar for application and documentation deadlines for Diploma programs.

Admission Requirements

Requirements for admission to these programs include:

  1. An approved degree with a grade point average of at least 2.50 over the most recent course work to a maximum of five full-course equivalents (University of Calgary courses and/or transferable courses taken at other institutions). All grades within a session will be included except where the number of courses taken within a session exceeds that required to fulfill (to a maximum of) five full-course equivalents, in which case the highest grades will be used.
  2. An interview with the appropriate Associate Dean or Assistant Dean or his/her representative to discuss program requirements and to complete program forms. Students must provide the Faculty with copies of their transcripts before or during the interview.
  3. An approved program. Applicants will not be registered until such time as the diploma program has been approved and formal admission to the program has been granted.

The Professional Teaching Certificate (Alberta) or its equivalent or equivalent professional experience may be taken into consideration for admission to the diploma program. A Bachelor of Education degree is not a requirement for admission to the diploma program. However, a student must hold a Bachelor's degree which provides adequate background to engage in further studies in this area.

Notes:

Exceptions, such as students from developing countries with background experience in management and/or program areas, may be considered as special cases by the Dean.

Applicants new to the University of Calgary or students who have not attended during the last year must complete an Application for Admission form and supply official transcripts in duplicate. Former University of Calgary students who have attended during the past year must complete a Change of Program form.

Within three weeks of the date of admission, students must submit a registration form. Failure to attend the session to which a student has been admitted will result in the admission being rescinded.

Program Requirements

Although specific courses will vary depending on the program, the following guidelines are to be followed by students in all programs:

1. A student must complete a minimum of four full-course equivalents satisfying divisional program requirements. At least two courses must be from the courses offered by the Faculty of Education and normally at least two courses numbered 600 or higher. A student lacking appropriate background may be required to complete one or more courses as prerequisites to the diploma program.

2. A grade point average of 3.00 or better is required on the four or five courses on the diploma program. (All courses taken subsequent to admission will be included in the calculation.) A grade below "C" will not be accepted for credit on a diploma program. The program must be completed within four calendar years. Relevant courses taken prior to admission (e.g., as an Open Studies student) may be allowed for credit toward the diploma; however, the date of the first course credited toward the diploma will indicate the commencement of the four-year time line.

General Notes:

  1. Students who now hold the MEd degree may not obtain the diploma on the basis of course credits obtained on the MEd degree program.
  2. Courses credited in a completed diploma may not be used for credit towards either the BEd degree or any graduate degree.
  3. Those intending to apply for admission to the Faculty of Graduate Studies are advised that a full-time diploma year will not count as the equivalent of a residence year in the MA or MSc degree programs.
  4. An area of specialization can be designated on the diploma. The area of specialization, however, must be indicated at the time of entry to the diploma program. Any change of specialization during study for the diploma must be approved by the Associate Dean of the appropriate division or his/her representative. Once an area of specialization has been placed on the diploma parchment, it cannot be altered.
  5. Completion of the diploma does not fulfill the requirements for a teaching certificate.
  6. Courses taken without approval may not be credited on the diploma. Faculty permission is required for courses and in some cases, because of practicum requirements, approval for admission to a course must be obtained from the instructor. Students should ask about such requirements.
  7. Students may include an individual study course to cover a particular area of interest.

Applied Psychology

(Return to Top)

Professional Diploma Programs in the Division of Applied Psychology

Professional Diploma in Applied Psychology: Inclusive and Special Education (Distributed Learning)

Introduction

The Professional Diploma in Applied Psychology is designed for certificated teachers who want to develop knowledge and skills in inclusive and special education. Student outcomes for the programme are defined according to the professional standards of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) located at http://www.cec.sped.org. This program is offered through a flexible online mode of delivery utilizing the latest computer-mediated communication technologies.

Admission Requirements

An approved degree with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.50 over the most recent course work to a maximum of five full-course equivalents (University of Calgary courses and/or courses taken at another institution).

Application Procedures

First contact the Online Administrator, Division of Applied Psychology, regarding admissibility and application procedure. Applicants should then consult with the Program Coordinator, regarding course selection and program requirements. Information on programs and application procedures can be viewed at the Division of Applied Psychology website (http://www.education.ucalgary.ca/apsy)

Dates for final acceptance of applications prior to each term are presented on the website and available from the Online Administrator. Applicants must complete the application pack (available online) and submit this with supporting documents to the Online Administrator, Division of Applied Psychology prior to the stated deadline. Admission into the program is subject to final approval by the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

General Program Requirements

The following guidelines are to be followed by students in the professional diploma program:

  1. A student must complete four full-course equivalents (eight one-session courses) to satisfy Division program requirements.
  2. A cumulative grade point average of 3.00 is required. A course grade below "C" will not be applied to a diploma program.
  3. The program must be completed within six calendar years.
  4. Relevant courses taken as an Open Studies student prior to admission may be credited towards the Professional Diploma. The date of the first course credited toward the Diploma will indicate the commencement of the six year time limit.

Course Requirements

Students who want to complete the Professional Diploma in Applied Psychology in Inclusive and Special Education are required to take the following courses:

APSY 503 Theory and Practice of Inclusive and Special Education

APSY 513 Consultation and Collaboration for Students with Special Needs

APSY 523 Supporting Students with Learning Difficulties

APSY 533 Supporting Students with Social, Emotional and Behavioural Needs

APSY 543 Professional Portfolio in Special Education

APSY 553 Applying Research in Inclusive and Special Education

APSY 641 Development, Learning and Cognition - Child and Adolescent

APSY 667 Assessment of Students with Exceptional Learning Needs

General Notes:

1.A Bachelor of Education degree is not a requirement for admission to the Professional Diploma program. However, a student must hold a Bachelor's degree which provides adequate background to engage in further studies in the selected area.

2.Completion of the Professional Diploma does not fulfil the requirements for a teaching certificate.

3.Courses applied towards any other completed degree will not be credited towards Diploma coursework

4.Courses taken as part of a completed Diploma cannot be used for credit toward the BEd degree.

5.Courses taken without program approval may not be credited. Division permission is required for all courses and students should ask the Coordinator of the Professional Diploma about such requirements.

6.No more than one full-course equivalent may be taken from outside of the Division.

7.Students who have completed all course work and are simply applying to the Faculty to graduate should fill out an Application for Degree at the same time as the application to the University.

8.Registration as an Open Studies Student does not constitute admission to the Diploma program.

9. Students may take up to two full course equivalents at the 600 level with approval of the program coordinator.

10.APSY 571 Psychology and Education of Gifted and Talented Individuals May be taken in place of 523 or 533 with approval of the Program Coordinator

Post Degree Continuous Learning Undergraduate Diploma and Undergraduate Certificate Programs in Education

(Return to Top)

The Faculty of Education sponsors Post Degree Continuous Learning Undergraduate Diploma and Undergraduate Certificate programs with the following objectives:

  • To promote continuing professional development among educators in schools, social service agencies, health, business, and industry.
  • To increase access to demographic groups who traditionally are excluded from postsecondary education by providing courses utilizing alternate-delivery formats.
  • To provide a vehicle for transitioning from the Bed (Master of Teaching Program) (MT) program to graduate programs.
  • To provide a vehicle for teachers who wish to complete additional undergraduate courses in order to move up the grid for salary purposes.
  • To provide a vehicle for teachers to complete additional undergraduate courses as directed by teacher certification agencies.
  • To offer course opportunities for students in other degree programs
  • To offer upgrading opportunities for potential students seeking admission to GDER programs.
  • To provide funding opportunities for graduate students in GDER who wish to teach at the undergraduate level.
  • To offer opportunities for teachers from other countries to achieve qualification in Alberta.

These programs are available in the Graduate Division of Educational Research. For more information see the section below.

Graduate Division of Educational Research

(Return to Top)

Introduction

The Graduate Division of Educational Research offers Undergraduate Diploma and Undergraduate Certificate programs as part of the Post-Degree Continuous Learning initiative.

Post Degree Continuous Learning Undergraduate Diploma Program

Selection and sequencing of courses must be discussed with the Program Officer in the Graduate Division of Educational Research.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Diplomas normally require a four-year Bachelor of Education degree or equivalent from a recognized institution before admission. Applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on the last five full courses taken.

Application Procedures

Applicants will require an interview with the Program Officer to discuss program requirements and course selection and to complete an Undergraduate Diploma form. This meeting can be conducted in person, via audioconference, or by e-mail. Students must provide the Program Officer with an unofficial copy of their university transcripts at the time of the interview.

Based on discussion with each student admitted to the Undergraduate Diploma Program, the Faculty of Education will identify the courses that a student must complete to qualify for an Undergraduate Diploma. A student's specific program may include required and elective courses. Often, the required courses will satisfy a student's outstanding requirements for teacher certification, as identified by a letter from Alberta Education to the applicant. Identification of a specific program for a student will constitute an agreement by the Faculty of Education that any required courses will be offered with sufficient frequency that a student can complete her/his program in a timely manner.

The Undergraduate Diploma form and transcript will be submitted to the Associate Dean of the Graduate Division of Educational Research or designate for approval.

In order to meet the Registrar's deadline, the application to the Graduate Division of Educational Research must be completed before March 15.

Prospective students should complete the Application for Admission form available at http://www.ucalgary.ca/registrar/forms_students

Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee and provide the necessary supporting documentation. This should be done immediately after the initial meeting with the Program Officer. Please consult the Applications for Admission Schedule at the front of this Calendar for deadlines.

Admission capacity in the Faculty of Education is limited; therefore, all qualified applicants may not be admitted. New applicants should refer to "Admission Requirements" in the Academic Regulations section of this Calendar for regulations regarding University admission requirements.

The offer of admission is valid for one session only.

General Program Requirements

The following guidelines are to be followed by students in Undergraduate Diploma program:

  1. A student must complete eight half-course equivalents to satisfy requirements for the Undergraduate Diploma. A completed Undergraduate Certificate may be credited toward the requirements for the Undergraduate Diploma.
  2. A cumulative grade point average of 2.5 is required. A course grade below "C" will not be applied to an Undergraduate Diploma program.
  3. The program must be completed within six calendar years.
  4. Relevant courses taken prior to admission may be credited towards the Undergraduate Diploma subject to guidelines set by the Post-Degree Continuous Learning Coordinating Group at the University of Calgary. The date of the first course credited toward the Undergraduate Diploma will indicate the commencement of the program time limit.

General Notes:

1. The Undergraduate Certificate, in combination with a Bachelor of Education (or equivalent degree) contribute toward the completion of the teaching certificate for those students who have studied in other jurisdictions or are updating their credentials. However, the determination of eligibility to teach in Alberta is made by the Teacher Development and Certification Branch of Alberta Education.

2. Courses applied towards any other completed degree will not be credited towards the Undergraduate Diploma.

3. Courses taken without program approval may not be credited. Division permission is required for courses.

4. Registration as an open student does not constitute admission to an Undergraduate Diploma program.

5. Components of the Undergraduate Diploma are not transferable for credit to the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) in the Faculty of Education at the University of Calgary.

Undergraduate Certificate Program

Selection and sequencing of courses must be discussed with the Program Officer in the Graduate Division of Educational Research.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Certificates normally require a four-year Bachelor of Education degree or equivalent from a recognized institution before admission. Applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on the last five full courses taken.

Application Procedures

Applicants will be required to participate in an interview with the Program Officer to discuss program requirements and course selection, and also to complete an Undergraduate Certificate form. This meeting can be conducted in person, via audioconference, or by e-mail. Applicants must provide the Program Officer with an unofficial copy of their university transcripts at the time of the interview.

Based on discussion with each student admitted to the Undergraduate Certificate Program, the Faculty of Education will identify the courses that a student must complete to qualify for an Undergraduate Certificate. A student's specific program may include required and elective courses. Often, the required courses will satisfy a student's outstanding requirements for teacher certification, as identified by a letter from Alberta Education to the applicant. Identification of a specific program for a student will constitute an agreement by the Faculty of Education that any required courses will be offered with sufficient frequency that a student can complete her/his program in a timely manner.

The Undergraduate Certificate form and transcript will be submitted to the Associate Dean of the Graduate Division of Educational Research or designate for approval.

In order to meet the Registrar's deadline, the application to the Graduate Division of Educational Research must be completed before March 15.

Prospective students should complete the Application for Admission form available at http://www.ucalgary.ca/registrar/forms_students

Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee and provide the necessary supporting documentation. This should be done immediately after the initial meeting with the Program Officer. Please consult the Applications for Admission Schedule at the front of this Calendar for deadlines.

Admission to the Faculty of Education is competitive; therefore, all qualified applicants may not be admitted. New applicants should refer to "Admission Requirements" in the Academic Regulations section of this Calendar for regulations regarding University admission requirements.

The offer of admission is valid for one session only.

General Program Requirements

The following guidelines are to be followed by students in the Undergraduate Certificate program:

  1. A student must complete four half-course equivalents.
  2. A cumulative grade point average of 2.5 is required. A course grade below "C" will not be applied to the Undergraduate Certificate program.
  3. The program must be completed within three calendar years.
  4. Relevant courses taken prior to admission may be credited towards the Undergraduate Certificate program subject to guidelines set by the Post-Degree Continuous Learning Coordinating Group at the University of Calgary. The date of the first course credited toward the Undergraduate Certificate program will indicate the commencement of the program time limit.

General Notes:

1. The Undergraduate Certificate, in combination with a Bachelor of Education (or equivalent degree) may contribute toward the completion of the teaching certificate for those students who have studied in other jurisdictions or are updating their credentials. However, the determination of eligibility to teach in Alberta is made by the Teacher Development and Certification Branch of Alberta Education.

2. Courses applied towards any other completed academic credential will not be credited towards an Undergraduate Certificate.

3. Courses taken without program approval may not be credited. Division permission is required for courses.

4. No more than one half-course equivalent may be taken outside of the Division.

5. Registration as an open student does not constitute admission to an Undergraduate Certificate program.

6. Components of the Undergraduate Certificate are not transferable for credit to the Bachelor of Education (Master of Teaching Program) in the Faculty of Education at the University of Calgary.

Post Degree Continuous Learning Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates

Post-Degree Continuous Learning

Eligible graduate students may progress through a three-stage laddering structure: graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, and the Master of Education degree program. That is, it may be possible for students to "ladder" with full academic and fee credit from a two full-course equivalent graduate certificate into a graduate diploma requiring an additional two full-course equivalents, and from there into a Master of Education program requiring another two full-course equivalents. For further information, please consult the Division of Educational Research or the Faculty of Education website at http://www.educ.ucalgary.ca/gder/