At Buffalo State, we explore how teachers can create English classrooms that matter, classrooms where young people engage in reading, writing, and critical thinking that encourages them to become active participants in the world around them. Our program prepares students to work in urban, suburban, and rural schools.
Our renowned faculty are leaders in English Education throughout Western New York and within the discipline. Students in our programs enjoy a strong sense of community, fostered by organizations like the English Education Students Association.
Schedule a Visit Apply Now! Accepted Students: Secure Your Spot
Degrees Offered
English Education (7-12), B.S.: The English B.S. degree program in secondary education leads to a New York State Initial Certificate for teaching English in grades 7–12. The required coursework provides students with an understanding of literature for young adults, ethnic literature, and contemporary literature, as well as the skills necessary to teach language and writing.
English Education (7-12) M.S.Ed: This graduate program is designed to provide maximum flexibility in meeting individual interests while ensuring a broad understanding of the various aspects of the teaching of English. The program develops highly qualified teachers who are prepared to exercise leadership as accomplished professional educators.
English Education (7-12) PTC: The English Education (7-12) postbaccalaureate teacher certification program leads to eligibility for New York State initial certification to teach English in grades 7-12. This program is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in English or a related field from an accredited college or university and intend to complete the coursework required for New York State certification to teach English in secondary or middle schools.
Meet Our Faculty
Our renowned faculty are leaders in English Education throughout Western New York and within the discipline, exemplified by their work with the Center for English Teaching, the Western New York Writing Project, and the Western New York New Work of Teachers.
Who Hires Our Students
The English education program prepares students to teach English at the middle school or high school level. Our graduate are in high demands from school districts locally and throughout the country. Some of our graduate decide to specialize in teaching special-needs students, advanced-placement students, or international students.
If you decide that teaching is not for you, your skills will qualify you for the following fields, among others:
- Advertising
- Communications
- Juvenile Outreach
- Marketing
- Media
- Publishing
- Research
- Social Services
Center for English Teaching
This center is committed to the ongoing advancement of teaching and research in secondary English Language Arts. Through its various initiatives, the center fosters English teacher communities of practice focused on progressive, student-centered instructional strategies rooted in social justice and the development of 21st-century literacies.
School Placement
Instead of internships, English education majors engage in school placements throughout Western New York under the supervision of a classroom teacher. The culminating courses vary in placement but usually include two supervised student teaching experiences. In addition, some English education majors have secured internships with the Western New York Network of English Teachers.
Student Research and Creativity Conference (SRCC)
Allows students to present their preliminary and completed research and creative activities in a student-friendly and supportive environment. This annual event is one of Buffalo State’s great traditions.
Tutoring in Area Schools
Multiple opportunities are available to engage students through one-on-one tutoring in schools throughout Buffalo and Western New York.
Western New York Writing Project
This project provides creative and interactive professional development for P-12 teachers in the teaching of writing across Western New York, creating a strong local network of teacher-leaders who share their expertise with peers.