Educational Studies

(Educational Studies)

Faculty of Education

Location:Keele campus, 128 Winters College, Tel.: 416-736-5001
Administrative Officers:S. Murphy, Dean; D. Dippo, Associate Dean (Academic Programs); S. Winton, Director, Undergraduate Program; H. Lotherington, Associate Dean (Research); A. Mishra-Tarc, Director, Graduate Program in Education
Professors:S. Alsop; D. Britzman (Distinguished Research Professor); D. Dippo; S. Gaetz; C. Haig-Brown, C. James; K. Krasny; H. Lotherington; C. Mayer; S. Murphy; A. Pitt; S. Schecter; K. Tilleczek
Professors Emeriti:P. Axelrod; J. Bell; G. Bunch; C. Ewoldt; E. Fine; L. Heshusius; M. Hughes; D. Khayatt; M. McCarthy; M.L. Morbey; R. Owston; S. Robbins; S. Shapson; K. Stanworth; C.A. Wien
Associate Professors:K. Barkaoui; S. Barrett; C. Brushwood-Rose: W. Crichlow; R. Desai-Trilokekar; S. Dion; M. DiPaolantonio; N. Dlamini; L. Farley; J. Gilbert; J. Ippolito; I. Killoran; J. Mannette; P. Millett; A. Mishra-Tarc; N. Norquay; M. Peguret; C. Popovic; T. Rapke; R. Sanoui; T. Shanahan; S. Winton; L. Wiseman; D. Yon; Q. Zha
Associate Professors Emeriti:S. Eden; O. Fullerton; N. Israelite; G. Orpwood; H. Smaller
Assistant Professors:

L. Angus; C. Delgado-Vintimilla; D. Hoeg; D. Manning; G. Parekh; G. Prasad; V. Shah; R. Silver; K. Thumbert

Assistant Professor Emeritus:D. Mason

Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies)

The BA Educational Studies program provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand and analyze education and its role in contemporary society, and to develop students' skills to enable them to undertake educational work in non-teacher-certification contexts. The program builds on the Faculty of Education's strength in the study of education as a field. It resonates with the university's interests in collaborating with communities, experiential education, and social engagement in that the study of education is intensely concerned with the contexts in which learning occurs and the experiential component actively involves students in the work of education. This unique blend positions York University as a North American leader in the study of education.

Students in the program will have opportunities to develop knowledge of the ways in which education operates officially and unofficially in contemporary culture, the values that underpin different conceptions of education, and the strategies that can be used in the service of educational work. Our goal is to create individuals who not only understand the intrinsic qualities of education, but, also, understand that, even though education is a contested domain, it offers considerable instrumental potential towards life-changing trajectories for individuals, whether those potentials are realized in formal or informal educational contexts.

University-Wide Residency Requirement

A minimum of 30 course credits and at least half (50 per cent) of the course credits required in each undergraduate degree program major/minor must be taken at York University.

Au moins 30 crédits d'un programme à York et 50 % des crédits exigés dans la majeure et la mineure doivent être complétés à Glendon.

Faculty-Wide Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies)

The BA (Educational Studies) provides students with the depth of knowledge needed to understand education and its role in society today. Students in this program develop the essential skills necessary to succeed in educational work outside of the traditional classroom. They benefit from the Faculty of Education’s strength in the study of education and York University’s strength in the arts, humanities and social sciences.

Study Options:

  1. BA (Honours) with a major in Educational Studies (no minor)
  2. BA (Honours) with a major in Educational Studies and a minor in another faculty
  3. BA (Honours) with a major in Educational Studies and a major in another faculty (double major option)
  4. A minor in Educational Studies, taken in conjunction with another degree.

Program Requirements

The program includes an experiential component, the Experience, Inquire, Contribute (EIC) component, and course offerings clustered into three focal/topical areas:

  • Engagements • focused on the development of professional skills
  • Values • focused on who and why we educate
  • Representations • focused on understanding the idea of education

Students will complete at least 42.00 credits in Educational Studies, including:

BA Educational Studies courses

  • ED/EDST 2200 3.00 Issues in Indigenous Education
  • ED/EDST 2450 3.00 Multilingualism and Multiculturalism in Educational Contexts
  • ED/EDST 2500 3.00 Cultural Representations of Education
  • ED/EDST 2700 3.00 Teaching Internationally and Interculturally
  • ED/EDST 3400 3.00 Policy and Public Educational Institutions
  • ED/EDST 3700 3.00 Education for a Sustainable Future: A Multidisciplinary Approach
  • ED/EDST 3730 3.00 Education and Human Rights
  • ED/EDST 3800 3.00 Research Methods in Educational Studies
  • ED/EDST 4010 3.00 Education for Activism
  • ED/EDST 4000 3.00 Community Organizations and Education
  • ED/EDST 4100 3.00 Theories, Strategies, and Challenges of Group Work
  • ED/EDST 4040 3.00 The Nature and Responsibility of Professional Practice

Program-Specific Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) Program Requirements

  • Note: Major/Minor courses may only count for Major or Minor credit towards one Major or Minor.
  • Note: Courses taken for a BA (Educational Studies) do not lead to teacher certification.

Honours BA: 120 Credits

Residency requirement: A minimum of 30 course credits, and at least half (50 per cent) of the course credits required in each undergraduate degree program major/minor, must be taken at York University.

Graduation requirement: All graduates must complete a total of at least 120 credits, with a minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 5.00 (C+).

General education: All graduates must complete a total of 21 credits general education courses. These include: a Humanities course (AP/HUMA), a Social Science course (AP/SOSC), and a Natural Science course (SC/NATS):

  • 6 credits in Natural Science (NATS)
  • 9 credits approved general education course in the Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) categories
  • 6 credits approved general education course in the opposite category to the 9 credit course in Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) already taken.

It is strongly recommended that students complete the general education requirements within their first 54 credits.

Major credits: Students must complete at least 42 credits in Educational Studies including:

  • ED/EDST 1000 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1100 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1200 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3800 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3999 6.00
  • ED/EDST 4999 6.00
  • 19 additional credits at the 2000/3000/4000 level, at least 6 credits at the 4000 level.

Upper-level credits: at least 39 credits at the 3000 or 4000 level within or outside of the major EDST.

Credits outside the major: at least 18 credits

Honours Double Major BA

Educational Studies may be pursued jointly with any other Honours Bachelor of Arts degree program or with a Bachelor of Social Work.

Note: in a double major program, a course may count only once toward major credit.

Residency requirement: A minimum of 30 course credits, and at least half (50 per cent) of the course credits required in each undergraduate degree program major/minor, must be taken at York University.

Graduation requirement: All graduates must complete a total of at least 120 credits, with a minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 5.00 (C+).

General education: All graduates must complete a total of 21 credits general education courses. These include: a Humanities course (AP/HUMA), a Social Science course (AP/SOSC), and a Natural Science course (SC/NATS):

  • 6 credits in Natural Science (NATS)
  • 9 credits approved general education course in the Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) categories
  • 6 credits approved general education course in the opposite category to the 9 credit course in Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) already taken.

It is strongly recommended that students complete the general education requirements within their first 54 credits.

Major credits: Students must complete at least 42 credits in Educational Studies including:

  • ED/EDST 1000 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1100 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1200 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3800 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3999 6.00
  • ED/EDST 4999 6.00
  • 19 additional credits at the 2000/3000/4000 level, at least 6 credits at the 4000 level.

Upper-level credits: at least 39 credits at the 3000 or 4000 level within or outside of the major EDST.

Credits outside the major: students who graduate in this program are deemed to have fulfilled this requirement.

HONOURS MAJOR/MINOR BA

A major in Educational Studies and a minor in any Bachelor of Arts degree.

Note: in a major/minor program, a course may count only once towards major credit or minor credit.

Graduation requirement: All graduates must complete a total of at least 120 credits, with a minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 5.00 (C+).

General education: All graduates must complete a total of 21 credits general education courses. These include: a Humanities course (AP/HUMA), a Social Science course (AP/SOSC), and a Natural Science course (SC/NATS):

  • 6 credits in Natural Science (NATS)
  • 9 credits approved general education course in the Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) categories
  • 6 credits approved general education course in the opposite category to the 9 credit course in Social Science (SOSC) or Humanities (HUMA) already taken.

It is strongly recommended that students complete the general education requirements within their first 54 credits.

Major credits: Students must complete at least 42 credits in Educational Studies including:

  • ED/EDST 1000 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1100 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1200 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3800 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3999 6.00
  • ED/EDST 4999 6.00
  • 19 additional credits at the 2000/3000/4000 level, at least 6 credits at the 4000 level.

Upper-level credits: at least 39 credits at the 3000 or 4000 level within or outside of the major EDST.

Credits outside the major: students who graduate in this program are deemed to have fulfilled this requirement.

Honours Minor BA

A Minor in Educational Studies may be pursued jointly with any Honours Major Bachelor of Arts degree or Bachelor of Social Work degree program.

Note: in a major/minor program, a course may count only once toward major credit or minor credit.

Minor credits: Students must complete 30 credits in Educational Studies including:

  • ED/EDST 1000 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1100 3.00
  • ED/EDST 1200 3.00
  • ED/EDST 3999 6.00
  • 15 additional credits at the 2000/3000/4000 level, including at least 3 credits at the 4000 level.
  • Academic Advising and Student Responsibilities
  • Course Requirements & Specializations
  • Evaluation Policy and Procedures
  • International Learning Opportunities
  • Introduction
  • Practicum

Academic Advising and Student Responsibilities

Academic Advising and Student Responsibilities

Every effort is made in the Faculty of Education to ensure that each student receives academic advice and sufficient information to guide in course selection. Within this context, the each student is responsible for the following:

  • Ensuring that the courses chosen meet the program and degree requirements for graduation
  • Verifying the accuracy of registration records, including all course changes
  • Fulfilling the requirements and being aware of academic progress in their program of study and in all registered courses; attending class and submitting all required course work
  • Understanding and adhering to the Senate Policy on Academic Honesty, as well as other relevant Senate Policies at https://secretariat-policies.info.yorku.ca
  • Noting and abiding by the sessional deadline dates published on the Current Students Web page each year, especially course change deadline dates
  • Checking their Faculty of Education emails regularly in order to remain informed and to receive information and reminders. Students are responsible for contacting the IT Helpdesk directly in order to address any technical difficulties that they may be experiencing

Advising

New Students

Newly-admitted students will have the opportunity to attend a group advising session and they can set up individual advising appointments. BA (Educational Studies) students will also participate in enrollment through YU Start to discuss program and degree requirements. New students will be offered a few dates to attend the information/advising sessions that takes place in-person to be able to enrol into their courses. It is the responsibility of all students to familiarize themselves with both the requirements of their program and the regulations governing their degree requirements.

Continuing Students

Each year, students will be expected to continue their participation in group and individual advising sessions in order to ensure that they are on track with their degree requirements.

Students in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher Education

Students in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Teacher Education Program who require advising should contact the DHH office at deafed@edu.yorku.ca or 416-736-2100 extension 55971.

Student Services

The Faculty of Education's Office of Student Services provides our undergraduate students with a number of services:

  • Weekly individual advising appointments
  • Monthly online newsletter
  • Group advising sessions
  • Accepting and processing student petitions
  • Accepting applications for awards

Students can contact the Student Services Office at osp@edu.yorku.ca for support.

Practicum Placement Support and Information

  • Information about students' practicum placements
  • Completion of criminal record forms
  • Practicum placements are a mandatory component of both the Bachelor of Education and the Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies). Students are responsible for maintaining an updated, valid Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening each term.

Student Accommodations

Students who require accommodations must visit the Student Accessibility Services unit at York University in order to obtain a letter that outlines the accommodations required. It is the responsibility of students to provide this letter to each of their Course Directors, Practicum Facilitators, Mentor Teachers and Workplace Supervisors in order to obtain the appropriate accommodations.

University Policies, Procedures & Codes of Conduct

All York University policies and procedures apply to the Faculty of Education. Students should be aware of these policies and procedures and should adhere to them at all times.

Additional Codes of Conduct

Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree should also be aware of the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) Standards of Practice and Ethical Standards.

Course Requirements & Specializations

Course Requirements

The following course requirements apply to each program. Unless otherwise noted, students are responsible for registering themselves into their courses, and for ensuring that they have completed all degree requirements.

Bachelor of Education – Primary-Junior

Students must complete all of the following foundations courses:

  • ED/EDPR 1000 3.00 – Studies in Communities and their Schools (includes Community Practicum Placement)
  • ED/EDFE 1100 3.00 – Child Development and Health
  • ED/EDFE 1300 3.00 – Inclusion, Disabilities and Education
  • ED/EDFE 2000 6.00 – Foundations of Education & Theory into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 2100 3.00 – Inquiries into Learning
  • ED/EDFE 3100 3.00 – Teaching for Diverse and Equitable Classrooms in Ontario
  • ED/EDFE 3200 3.00 – Content into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 4200 3.00 – Research into Practice

Students must complete all of the following panel-specific courses:

  • ED/EDPJ 1000 3.00 – Language & Literacy in the Primary-Junior Divisions
  • ED/EDPJ 1100 3.00 – Mathematics in the Primary-Junior Divisions
  • ED/EDPJ 2000 3.00 – Science & Technology in the Primary-Junior Divisions
  • ED/EDPJ 3000 1.50 – Social Studies & Culture in the Primary-Junior Divisions
  • ED/EDPJ 3100 1.50 – Physical Education in the Primary-Junior Divisions
  • ED/EDIN 4000 3.00 – Integration Through Arts

Students must complete all of the following practicum courses/placements:

  • ED/EDPR 2000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 3000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 4000 3.00 – Practicum

Students must complete the following elective courses:

  • One language/literacy elective (3.00)
  • One mathematics elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)

Note: Students in the BEd can also complete a Specialization in International Education. See details below.

Bachelor of Education – Junior-Intermediate

Students must complete all of the following foundations courses:

  • ED/EDPR 1000 3.00 – Studies in Communities and their Schools (includes Community Practicum Placement)
  • ED/EDFE 1101 3.00 – Adolescent Development and Health
  • ED/EDFE 1300 3.00 – Inclusion, Disabilities and Education
  • ED/EDFE 2000 6.00 – Foundations of Education & Theory into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 2100 3.00 – Inquiries into Learning
  • ED/EDFE 3100 3.00 – Teaching for Diverse and Equitable Classrooms in Ontario
  • ED/EDFE 3200 3.00 – Content into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 4200 3.00 – Research into Practice

Students must complete all of the following panel-specific courses:

  • ED/EDJI 1000 3.00 – Language & Literacy in the Junior-Intermediate Divisions
  • ED/EDJI 1100 3.00 – Mathematics in the Junior-Intermediate Divisions
  • ED/EDJI 2000 3.00 – Science & Technology in the Junior-Intermediate Divisions
  • ED/EDJI 3000 1.50 – Social Studies & Culture in the Junior-Intermediate Divisions
  • ED/EDJI 3100 1.50 – Physical Education in the Junior-Intermediate Divisions
  • ED/EDIN 4000 3.00 – Integration Through Arts

Students must complete all of the following practicum courses/placements:

  • ED/EDPR 2000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 3000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 4000 3.00 – Practicum

Students must complete the following elective courses:

  • One language/literacy elective OR One mathematics elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)

Note: Students in the BEd can also complete a Specialization in International Education. See details below.

Bachelor of Education – Intermediate-Senior

Students must complete all of the following foundations courses:

  • ED/EDPR 1000 3.00 – Studies in Communities and their Schools (includes Community Practicum Placement)
  • ED/EDFE 1101 3.00 – Adolescent Development and Health
  • ED/EDFE 1300 3.00 – Inclusion, Disabilities and Education
  • ED/EDFE 2000 6.00 – Foundations of Education & Theory into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 2100 3.00 – Inquiries into Learning
  • ED/EDFE 3100 3.00 – Teaching for Diverse and Equitable Classrooms in Ontario
  • ED/EDFE 3200 3.00 – Content into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 4200 3.00 – Research into Practice

Students must complete two teaching subject courses requirements:

  • ED/EDIS 3610 3.00 – New Media Literacies and Culture
  • ED/XXXX 4000 3.00 – Teaching [teaching subject 1] in the Intermediate-Senior Divisions – Part A
  • ED/XXXX 4001 3.00 – Teaching [teaching subject 1] in the Intermediate-Senior Divisions – Part B
  • ED/XXXX 4000 3.00 – Teaching [teaching subject 2] in the Intermediate-Senior Divisions – Part A
  • ED/XXXX 4001 3.00 – Teaching [teaching subject 2] in the Intermediate-Senior Divisions – Part B

Students must complete all of the following practicum courses/placements:

  • ED/EDPR 2000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 3000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 4000 3.00 – Practicum

Students must complete the following elective courses:

  • One free-choice elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)

Note: Students in the BEd can also complete a Specialization in International Education. See details below.

Bachelor of Education (French Option) - Glendon only

Students who complete the Bachelor of Education (BEd) at Glendon will supplement their elective requirements with the following two courses:

  • ED/EDFR 2000 3.00 – Teaching & Learning French in an Immersion Context
  • ED/EDFR 3000 3.00 – Teaching & Learning French in a Core French Context

In addition, Primary-Junior and Junior-Intermediate candidates will take a math-specific elective, while Intermediate-Senior candidates will take a free-choice elective to complete their requirements.

By completing these two courses, in combination with their Education courses in French and an undergraduate degree at Glendon, students qualifying in the Primary-Junior will receive an Additional Qualification with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) in French as a Second Language on their OCT transcripts after graduating.

Bachelor of Education, Technological Education – Intermediate-Senior

Students must complete all of the following foundations courses:

  • ED/EDPR 1000 3.00 – Studies in Communities and their Schools (includes Community Practicum Placement)
  • ED/EDFE 1101 3.00 – Adolescent Development and Health
  • ED/EDFE 1300 3.00 – Inclusion, Disabilities and Education
  • ED/EDFE 2000 6.00 – Foundations of Education & Theory into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 2100 3.00 – Inquiries into Learning
  • ED/EDFE 3100 3.00 – Teaching for Diverse and Equitable Classrooms in Ontario
  • ED/EDFE 3200 3.00 – Content into Practice
  • ED/EDFE 4200 3.00 – Research into Practice
  • ED/EDIS 3610 3.00 – New Media Literacies and Culture

Students must complete two teaching subject courses requirements:

  • ED/TECH 4000 3.00 – Teaching Technological Education in the Intermediate-Senior Division – Part A
  • ED/TECH 4001 3.00 – Teaching Technological Education in the Intermediate-Senior Division – Part B
  • ED/TECH 4050 3.00 – Curriculum Connections for Technological Education OR *ED/XXXX 4000 3.00 – Teaching [teaching subject 2] in the Intermediate-Senior Division – Part A [if approved]
  • ED/TECH 4051 3.00 – Teaching Design Thinking Within Technology Frameworks OR *ED/XXXX 4001 3.00 Teaching [teaching subject 2] in the Intermediate-Senior Division – Part B [if approved]

* Students who have submitted a program change wishing to pursue a General Studies teachable ED/XXXX 4000 3.00 and ED/XXXX 4001 3.00 in semester 3 and 4  will not be required to enrol in a third free-choice elective 3.00 and ED/TECH 4051 3.00.

Students must complete all of the following practicum courses/placements:

  • ED/EDPR 2000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 3000 3.00 – Practicum
  • ED/EDPR 4000 3.00 – Practicum

Students must complete the following elective courses:

  • One free-choice elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)
  • One free-choice elective (3.00)

Note: Students in the BEd can also complete a Specialization in International Education. See details below.

Jewish Teacher Education (Concentration)

This concentration, taken during the Bachelor of Education program, prepares BEd students to teach in Jewish Day Schools; it is offered in cooperation with the Julia and Henry Koschitzky Centre for Jewish Education. The Jewish Teacher Education concentration can be taken in either the Concurrent or Consecutive BEd program delivery models.

In order to complete this concentration, students must complete:

  1. Elective courses (total 6.00 credits) including:
    • ED/HEB 2030 3.00 Teaching Modern Hebrew Language Arts and
    • ED/HEB 3030 3.00 Teaching Classical Hebrew Texts in Jewish Studies
  2. Practicum placements in a Hebrew day school, which are coordinated and supervised for 25 days per year (50 days total) by the Faculty of Education.
    • Each practicum placement is related to ED/HEB 2030 3.00 or ED/HEB 3030 3.00 listed above
  3. Completion of Advanced Certificate in Hebrew and Jewish Studies (total 36.00 credits) or equivalent. Certificate requirements include coursework related to:
    1. Hebrew Language Fluency
      • Students must complete AP/HEB 3000 6.00 (or approved equivalent) before commencing the BEd
      • Students must complete an additional level in a summer ulpan or Ivriyon (or approved equivalent) prior to commencing their second year of the BEd.
    2. Jewish Studies
      • Consult the list of required courses and information about the Advanced Certificate in Hebrew and Jewish Studies.
        • Required core courses for all students include:
          • AP/HEB 3210 3.00, AP/HEB 3220 3.00, AP/HEB 3230 3.00 (or equivalent)
      • This certificate is a part of a student’s undergraduate degree, and not the Bachelor of Education degree requirements.
        • It is a requirement for the concentration.
      • Students in the Consecutive BEd program model who have already completed an undergraduate degree or who have attended a gap year program at a transcript-granting yeshiva or seminary may have their transcripts assessed for equivalent completed coursework.

Additional opportunities:

  • Students studying concurrently are encouraged to complete a stop-out year from the Faculty of Education in order to study at an Israeli university, earning credits towards their undergraduate degree and the Advanced Certificate in Hebrew and Jewish Studies.
  • Students who are completing the Jewish Teacher Education concentration are eligible to apply to take Teaching Voices of Israel (3.00 credits) in Israel, in years when offered. The coursework is in Hebrew.
  • Students may participate in intensive ulpan courses in Israel and the U.S. to increase Hebrew language proficiency.

Please note:

Specialization in International Education

Students in the Faculty of Education’s Bachelor of Education (BEd) program are able to identify that they would like to "specialize" in international education within the existing degree program. Students who are eligible to earn the specialization are those in the Faculty of Education’s Bachelor of Education program and they may be studying to teach in any subject area and at any grade level. This option responds to students’ interests in teaching in international locations after they have graduated with a BEd; it is designed to help students to develop the skills and experiences that will prepare them to teach in an international location, while also fulfilling the Ontario degree and certification requirements.

The specialization is offered within the existing BEd degree offerings and requirements, and will allow students to “package” their courses and experiences in order to take a specific focus.

In order to complete this Specialization, students must:

  1. Complete all of the requirements for a Bachelor of Education at York University.
  2. Complete the approved checklist/application, along with all supporting documentation have been submitted in original, hard copies by December 23 in the term prior to graduation
  3. Complete Course Credits:
    1. Complete two (2) of the following courses (total 6.00 credits):
      • ED/EDUC 2700 3.00 – Teaching Internationally and Interculturally
      • ED/EDUC 2720 3.00 – Teaching English in International Contexts
      • ED/EDUC 3910 3.00 – Reflecting On and Interpreting the International Educational Experience
      • ED/EDUC 3710 3.00 – Global Issues and Education
        • OR if participated in a York University exchange or study abroad program (total 6.00 credits):
          • Earn the equivalent of 6.00 York Education electives at the internationally-located university
          • OR earn one (1) of: ED/EDUC 2720 3.00 – Teaching English in International Contexts and the equivalent of 3.00 York Education electives at the internationally-located university
  4. Complete at least one (1) of the following international experience programs for a minimum of one month:

Upon confirmation a notation will be added to the student’s transcripts, indicating that a specialization has been completed.

Please note:

  • The specialization is only open to students in the Bachelor of Education program.
  • Students must complete all of the required activities during their BEd degree program.
  • Students may not apply for the transcript notation retroactively.

For further information on Bachelor of Education Specializations, please visit edu.yorku.ca/current-students/international-opportunities/.

Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies)

See requirements on the Educational Studies program page in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma: Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

See additional requirements on the Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Program page in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Evaluation Policy and Procedures

Evaluation Policy and Procedures

Grade Requirements

a. Bachelor of Education (Concurrent)

In order to remain coregistered in the Faculty of Education or to graduate, students must maintain a competent standard of performance in both their academic Faculty and in the Faculty of Education. Students will be ineligible to continue or to graduate if they fall into any one of the categories listed below.

  • Students who fail to maintain a C+ overall average or a 5.00 grade point average in the Faculty of co-registration will not be considered eligible to proceed in education.
  • Students will be ineligible to continue in the BEd degree program if they receive less than a grade of C+ in any course taken for education credit.
  • Students in the junior/intermediate or intermediate/senior division are expected to achieve a minimum grade of C+ in each course that is required to fulfill the requirements for a teaching subject. Failure to do so may result in a suspension or involuntary withdrawal from the program or other appropriate recommendation at the discretion of the Faculty adviser and the associate dean (pre-service).
  • Students are required to complete four practicum seminars (including one community-based placement and three school-based placements) during the two years of the program. These seminars, which consist of both seminars and placements in a school/community (Semesters 1 and 2) or in a school/classroom (Semesters 3 and 4) are evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Candidates who fail to achieve a pass in a practicum seminar are ineligible to continue in the program.
  • Practicum placements are corequisite with appropriate courses.

b. Bachelor of Education (Consecutive)

In order to remain registered in the Consecutive program and to graduate, students must maintain a superior standard of performance in their course work. Teacher candidates will be ineligible to maintain their registration status or to graduate if they receive less than a grade of C+ in any half or full education course.

  • Candidates are required to complete four practicum seminars during the two years of the program. These seminars, which consist of both seminars and placements in a school/community (Semesters 1 and 2) or in a school/classroom (Semesters 3 and 4) are evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Candidates who fail to achieve a pass in a practicum seminar are ineligible to continue in the program.
  • Students are required to complete four practicum seminars (including one community-based placement and three school-based placements) during the two years of the program. These seminars, which consist of both seminars and placements in a school/community (Semesters 1 and 2) or in a school/classroom (Semesters 3 and 4) are evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Candidates who fail to achieve a pass in a practicum seminar are ineligible to continue in the program.
  • Practicum placements are corequisite with appropriate courses.

c. Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies)

The following policies apply to students in the Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies):

Academic Penalties

Students whose academic record does not meet Faculty or program standards are subject to the academic penalties of academic warning, required withdrawal, debarment warning, debarment and academic probation.

Academic Warning

Students whose, prior to completion of 60 passed credits, cumulative grade point average falls below 5.00 at the end of any session, or who enter the Faculty with a grade point average equivalent to less than 5.00 on the York scale, receive an academic warning.

Academic Warning Conditions

Students on academic warning must achieve a cumulative grade point average of at least 5.00 (C+) within the next 24 credits taken or be required to withdraw for a minimum of 12 months.

Failure to Meet Academic Warning Conditions

Students on academic warning who fail to meet the academic warning conditions must withdraw for a minimum of 12 months.

Required Withdrawal

Students whose academic record shows marked weakness may be required to withdraw from their studies for a minimum of twelve months, during which time they are encouraged to identify and remedy any problems that may have contributed to their failure to perform up to their potential, and to reflect on their reasons for pursuing a university education. The following regulations apply to required withdrawals:

Grade point average below 5.00: Students whose cumulative grade point average on at least 60.00 York credits is below 5.00 maybe required to withdraw for a minimum of 12 months and satisfy the academic warning conditions as specified.

Petition to Continue Without Interruption

Students who have been required to withdraw may submit a petition requesting permission to continue their studies without interruption. Students whose petition is granted will be allowed to continue their studies on debarment warning.

Reactivation after Required Withdrawal

Students who have been required to withdraw may apply for reactivation after the requisite period of absence by submitting a request online at the Reactivation Web page (registrar.yorku.ca/enrol/reactivate). Students who return to their studies after such a required withdrawal (as well as those who have been allowed to continue their studies by virtue of a petition to the Committee on Petitions) receive a debarment warning.

Debarment Warning

Students who have been required to withdraw from the Faculty of Education or from another Faculty at York or elsewhere, receive a debarment warning upon continuing their studies in the Faculty.

Debarment Warning Conditions

Students on debarment warning must achieve a cumulative grade point average of at least 5.00 within the next 24 credits taken. Students who do not fulfill these conditions will be debarred from the University. Students on debarment warning are allowed to complete their subsequent 24 credits in one academic year without restriction.

Debarment

Students who fail to meet the debarment warning conditions outlined above will be debarred from the University. Debarment, the minimum period for which is normally two years, means that the student is no longer a student at York University.

Petition to Continue Without Interruption

Students who have been debarred may submit a petition requesting permission to continue their studies without interruption. Students granted such a petition are be allowed to continue their studies on academic probation.

Reapplying After Debarment

Students who have been debarred and who wish to resume their studies must apply for re-admission through the Admissions Office (futurestudents.yorku.ca) and must provide persuasive evidence that they are ready and able to complete a degree program at the required academic level. Students who are re-admitted (as well as those who have been allowed to continue their studies by virtue of a petition) receive an academic probation.

Academic Probation

Students who have been debarred and who subsequently resume their studies in the Faculty, whether by petitioning to continue without interruption or by applying for readmission, receive an academic probation. Students on academic probation must meet the debarment warning conditions outlined above; otherwise, they will be debarred.

d. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher Education Program

To remain registered in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher Education Program, students must maintain a minimum grade of a C+ in each course. If a failing grade is received in any course or practicum placement, teacher candidates will be ineligible to continue and will be withdrawn from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher Education Program. In addition, Ontario participants must maintain current, unrestricted membership in good standing with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) through the entire program.

Evaluation Policies and Procedures

The following policies and procedures apply to all students in the Faculty of Education:

  • All evaluation procedures and criteria will be clearly specified in the course outline and made known to the candidate.
  • Information in a candidate’s file will be released outside the University only upon the written request of that candidate.
  • Students will have the opportunity to assess their progress in each practicum/seminar course in consultation with instructors at least once in each term.

It is an important goal of the Faculty of Education that graduates be able to operate as independent problem solvers who have the capacity to evaluate their own performance and to gather evidence of achievements and progress. Thus, while the professional staff of the Faculty bears the ultimate and final responsibility for evaluation, each teacher candidate is also expected to play an important role in self-evaluation.

Grading Scheme

Grade Scales

All undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Education are graded with the common nine-point grading scheme approved by Senate. For further information on the Faculty of Education evaluation policy, please see Grade Requirements above.

Letter GradeGrade Point ValueExplanation

A+

9

Exceptional

A

8

Excellent

B+

7

Very Good

B

6

Good

C+

5

Competent

C

4

Fairly Competent

D+

3

Passing

D

2

Barely Passing

E

1

Marginally Failing

F

0

Failing

Practicum Seminars and Classes

Practicum placements/courses are evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined as the presentation of work as one’s own which originates from some other, unacknowledged source. In examinations, term papers and other graded assignments, verbatim or almost verbatim presentation of someone else’s work without attribution constitutes plagiarism. This is deemed to include the presentation, without acknowledgement, of someone else’s argument in the candidate’s own work as if it were one’s own.

For further information on plagiarism, please consult York University's Senate Policy on Academic Honesty in the University Policies and Regulations.

Cheating

Cheating is defined as the giving or receiving or utilizing, or attempt at giving or receiving or utilizing, unauthorized information or assistance during or before an examination; or the presentation of a single work to more than one course without the permission of the instructors involved.

In all cases of suspected breaches of academic honesty, the Course Director must consult with the candidate. Minor or major penalties may be applied should the instructor believe that grounds exist for official action. The candidate has the right to appeal any allegation of plagiarism or cheating.

If candidates are uncertain whether a course of action might constitute cheating or plagiarism, they should consult the instructor concerned in advance.

Academic Honesty

For information on academic honesty, please consult York University's Senate Policy on Academic Honesty in the University Policies and Regulations section of this publication.

Withdrawals

Course Withdrawals

Students may withdraw from any Education course without receiving a grade if they do so by the published withdrawal dates. Candidates who withdraw from an Education practicum seminar, or from any course in the Bachelor of Education program, however, should note that they will be required to re-apply for admission to the Faculty of Education if they wish to resume their Education program. To withdraw from an Education course, students must report their intent to the Faculty of Education's Student Services office, in accordance with the published withdrawal dates. Those who withdraw from a course after these dates are normally deemed to have failed it and receive a grade of F.

Program Withdrawals

Students who withdraw from the Faculty of Education, and who are registered in the BEd Concurrent model or Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) program, may transfer their accumulated education credits to their academic Faculty subject to the rules and procedures of that Faculty. Any grades transferred in this manner are then subject to the regulations governing maintenance of standing in the other Faculty. Students must report their intention to withdraw both to the Faculty of Education's Student Services office and to their home Faculty.

Faculty Legislation on Involuntary Withdrawal

A student may be required to withdraw from a course if:

  1. The student fails to meet the requirements of a course, either through unsatisfactory seminar and/or practicum attendance/participation, or through unprofessional behaviour in fulfilling course requirements; or
  2. The student’s performance is judged to disrupt seriously the functioning of the host classroom and/or the well-being of the students in that classroom.

The decision to require the candidate to withdraw will be taken by the Associate Dean (Academic Programs) on the recommendation of the Course Director following a meeting with the student. Students will have access to the usual appeal procedures in such instances.

Education Program and/or Subject Changes

Students are advised that a change in education program (movement among primary/junior, junior/intermediate and intermediate/senior programs) or in teaching subjects at the junior/intermediate and intermediate/senior levels may only be made with the approval of the Associate Dean. Considerations which may affect the approval of such a change include the year level completed in the education program, standing of the candidate and the adequacy of academic background for the proposed change, and matters having to do with enrolment limits and availability of the education courses which would be required for the candidate to complete the altered program. Program changes may result in delays in graduation.

Deferred Standing

Deferred standing may be granted with the support of the relevant Course Director in cases where final grades cannot be assigned because all course requirements have not been completed. The grounds for granting deferred standing are for rare and unforeseen circumstances.

When granted, deferred standing is an interim measure pending completion of regular or alternative assignments.

The granting of a deferral may result in students missing June convocation for degree conferral. Deferred Standing Agreement Forms may be obtained at the Faculty of Education's Student Services office. Requests must be accompanied by a medical certificate and other written documentation. Deferred Standing Agreement Forms should be completed in consultation with the Course Director prior to the submission of final grades.

Reappraisal

While all grades and evaluation decisions are carefully assessed, a student may request a reappraisal of a grade by making a formal request to the Associate Dean (Academic Programs) within 14 days of the release of final grade reports. The request must be in writing and should state clearly why the applicant believes that the grade should be re-evaluated. A reappraisal may result in a lower, higher or unchanged grade. Before submitting a formal request for re-evaluation, candidates must first discuss the assigned grade with the Course Director. If the student is unable to reach the Course Director before the deadline, a letter of intent to appeal the grade can be submitted to the Associate Dean’s office pending contact with the Course Director.

Petitions Procedure

Students may petition on reasonable grounds and in writing any of the regulations of the Faculty of Education. Enquiries about procedures should be made to the Faculty of Education's Student Services Office.

International Learning Opportunities

International Learning Opportunities

York University and the Faculty of Education offers students the opportunity to participate in international learning opportunities. These include:

  1. Studying abroad on a Letter of Permission (LOP)
  2. Participating in an International Exchange -- including a summer exchange to Germany each year
  3. Participating in York International's Global Internships
  4. Participating in the International Practicum Placement

Students in the Bachelor of Education (BEd), Bachelor of Education (BEd) - Technological Education and the Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) are eligible to participate.

All terms and conditions of each program must be met in order to participate. Students are responsible for completing all advising sessions and paperwork, completing and signing York travel waivers and confirming their insurance coverage prior to participating. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are completing the correct courses during an international exchange or while studying abroad on a letter of permission for their programs in advance of travel. Internships and the International Practicum Placement will not count towards practicum hours for the degree or for certification, but they will count towards the international specialization.

Introduction

Introduction: Faculty of Education

York University’s Faculty of Education offers innovative undergraduate, graduate and professional learning programs. The Faculty is committed to equity, social justice and environmental issues in all of its programs.

The Faculty of Education and Graduate Program in Education at York offer the following programs:

Practicum

Practicum

Both the Bachelor of Education (BEd) and the Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) include compulsory experiential learning experiences outside the university setting. Practicum placements are set by the Faculty of Education and are confirmed to have met each student's degree requirements. Placement locations are not negotiable and students are responsible for travelling to and from their placements on the correct days. Students are also responsible for completing the required paperwork (e.g., criminal record check, insurance verification) on time.

Bachelor of Education (BEd) Practicum

In the Bachelor of Education (BEd) program, students complete both a community-based practicum placement and three school-based practicum placements. School placements are supervised by an Ontario Certified Teacher. Students are required to complete all practicum days successfully in order to complete their degree programs. Further details on the practicum experience can be found online.

Students in the BEd program also have the option of participating in a summer International Practicum Placement. Participation will not count towards Ontario practicum hours for the degree or certification, but it will count towards the International Specialization. Students are required to confirm their travel insurance and complete all pre-departure orientation sessions before travelling and post-program debfiefing sessions upon return.

BEd (French) Practicum - Glendon only

Students completing their BEd at Glendon will generally complete their practicum placements is in Ontario French Immersion schools, and may also gain experience in English language settings.

Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) Practicum

In the Bachelor of Arts (Educational Studies) program, students complete community-based practicum placements in their senior years. Completion of these placements is compulsory in the degree program.

Jewish Teacher Education

Practicum placements in a Hebrew day school, which are coordinated and supervised for 25 days per year (50 days total) by the Faculty of Education. Students will also complete both a community-based practicum placement and three school-based practium placemnts supervised by an Ontario Certified Teacher.

Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Practicum

Full-time students complete their practicum placements on set days during the year. Part-time students complete their practicum in their third year of the program.

Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

As required by Ontario law, all individuals who are working in practicum placements that include vulnerable individuals (e.g., schools, community centres, seniors' facilities) must have a valid Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) prior to entering a placement. Those who do not have this current, valid documentation will not be able to attend the placement. Not attending the placement will result in not completing compulsory degree requirements.