It's a different approach to teaching… and that's what draws you toward Montessori education.
You believe children learn best through active engagement, using a wide variety of carefully designed materials. You understand that classroom environments should foster the development of independence and self-discipline. You know children have an innate need to be part of a supportive community.
These are the tenets of the Montessori approach, and they are the standards by which you will train in Lander's Montessori program. Lander is the only institution of higher learning in South Carolina to offer a program leading to national certification in Montessori education. We offer a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with Montessori emphasis and a Master of Education in Montessori Education.
With a longstanding tradition of producing talented teachers, Lander's Department of Teacher Education focuses on empowering and encouraging students to become not only competent professionals, but also lifelong learners and responsible citizens. Our faculty members have extensive experience in teaching children and young adults, and many also serve on statewide education committees, giving you invaluable access to the latest state regulations and policies.
And with small class sizes and many professional and student organizations on campus, you'll have opportunities to get to know others who share your interest in education.
You want to teach and to teach well. We'll help you achieve that goal with a degree from Lander.
To be considered for admission into the M.Ed. in Montessori Education program, prospective students must have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and submit an application for admission. GRE/GMAT scores are not required but will be considered if students choose to submit them.
What is the Montessori Method?
Dr. Maria Montessori, who originated this approach to educating children, was an Italian physician whose work with young special-needs children led her to design innovative materials and activities that provide hands-on learning experiences.
Montessori is an approach based on the belief that all children are unique and deserve classrooms and teachers that support and respect their individual development. Additionally, it is based on the premise that the most important years for learning are from birth through elementary school.
The Montessori educational approach has several key concepts:
- The goal of a Montessori classroom is to produce competent, responsible, adaptive citizens who are lifelong learners and problem-solvers.
- Children learn by manipulating materials and interacting with others through experiences that are self-initiated under a responsive teacher's guidance.
- Learning takes place through the senses and occurs most readily in an atmosphere that is inquisitive, cooperative and nurturing.
- Respect for oneself, others, the environment and life are essential for learning.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for the Master's in Education, Montessori Education include:
- B.A. or B.S. from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts of all work must be submitted
For more information about the program or assistance with the application procedure, please submit a Request for Information.