Education That Elevates
We play a key role in shaping New York educators with our four doctoral degree (i.e., Ed.D. and Ph.D.) programs and 43 master’s degree programs that accommodate career or field changers and those who seek expertise and/or certification. Our areas of specialization include Adolescent Education, Childhood Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Early Childhood Education, Literacy, School Building Leadership, School Counseling, Special Education, and TESOL.
Our programs are designed to be flexible, with online and traditional schedules. When you become a student here at St. John’s, you also become part of a rich history of excellence in education, where we have been preparing educators for more than 100 years!
About The School of Education
Undergraduate and Dual Degrees
Undergraduate and dual degree programs are available for students seeking to become teachers who want to transform the educational outcomes of children.
Graduate Programs
Our master’s degree programs in education are designed to help you better understand and solve the most pressing issues within your program of study.
Doctorate Programs
The School’s Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs challenge you to think critically as you work to solve the most pressing challenges facing the community and the world.
Advanced Certificates
Explore our programs designed for teachers or other personnel interested in earning specialized certificates.
Scholarship Opportunities
The School of Education offers several scholarships for continuing undergraduate and graduate students.
Contact The School of Education
We welcome your questions.
James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D. | Dean, School of Education
Dear School of Education Students:
Welcome to the Fall 2026 semester! I hope you enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating summer and are returning with renewed energy and excitement for the journey ahead. As we open this new academic chapter, I am thrilled to welcome each of you—new students joining us for the first time and returning students continuing your path of purpose and progress.
To our newest members of the School of Education community, we celebrate your decision to begin this transformative journey at St. John’s University. You have chosen a path that will shape not only your future, but the futures of the countless individuals and communities you will one day serve. To our returning students, your continued commitment to growth and excellence inspires us, and we are honored to support you as you advance toward your goals.
This fall, whether you are learning on campus or engaging virtually, you will find a vibrant array of opportunities designed to enrich your experience—collaborative learning, professional development, community engagement, and innovative academic exploration. The School of Education remains steadfast in its mission to provide the tools, resources, and support you need to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Your dedication to the field of education is both admirable and essential. We are excited to walk alongside you as you deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills, and prepare to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Welcome to an extraordinary semester. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the dean’s office—we are here to support you every step of the way.
James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D.
Dean
The School of Education
St. John's University
Among the Best in the Nation
The School of Education at St. John’s University is recognized among the best in the nation.
for Online Graduate Education Programs
U.S. News & World Report (2020 Edition)
for Best Graduate Schools
U.S. News & World Report (2023 Edition)
Pathway Programs
The School of Education offers Pathway programs that enable you to streamline study and complete a B.S. and M.S. degree in five years. They include
- Childhood Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (K–12)
- Adolescent TESOL (K–12)
- Adolescent Special Education (grades 7–12)
Our TESOL 5-Year Pathway is an accelerated program designed to help aspiring educators streamline their studies and achieve both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in just five years. This unique program is tailored to meet the demands of our culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms and English Language Learners in K-12 settings. Our 5-Year Pathway Programs offer a dynamic and efficient route to your educational and professional goals.
At St. John's University, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of educators and ensuring that our students have the resources and support they need to excel in their chosen careers. Explore our TESOL 5-Year Pathway today and take the first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling career in education.
The TESOL 5-Year Pathway is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor's degree in Education to seamlessly transition into a Master of Science in Education program, specializing in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This integrated pathway allows you to gain expertise in TESOL while reducing the overall time and cost associated with pursuing both a bachelor's and a master's degree separately.
At St. John's University, we understand that students have diverse interests and career aspirations. To accommodate these differences, we offer several distinct 5-Year Pathway programs within the TESOL discipline:
- Childhood TESOL (K-12): This program is tailored for those who aspire to teach English as a Second Language in elementary or middle school settings. It equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to support young learners in their language development and academic success.
- Adolescent TESOL (K-12): Designed for individuals who are passionate about helping high school students excel in English language acquisition, this program focuses on TESOL strategies and methodologies for the secondary education level.
- Streamlined Education: By enrolling in our 5-Year Pathway, you will complete both your Bachelor's and Master's degrees in a shorter time frame, allowing you to enter the job market with a competitive edge.
- Expert Faculty: Our faculty members are experienced educators and researchers in the field of TESOL. They are dedicated to providing you with a high-quality education that prepares you for success.
- Field Experience: You will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in diverse educational settings, including local schools and community organizations.
- Networking Opportunities: St. John's University offers a rich educational environment where you can connect with peers and professionals who share your passion for education.
- Career Advancement: A Master's degree in TESOL opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities, including teaching in K-12 schools, working in language programs, and even teaching English abroad.
If you have questions or need more information about any of the 5-Year Pathway Programs, please contact Bernadette A. Zacharuk, Coordinator, Undergraduate Programs, at [email protected].
Success at St. John's
Alumna Credits Her St. John’s Education for Success in Treating Mental Health Clients
Clinical Mental Health Counselor Ayanna S. Moore-Ellis, MHC ’14CPS, ’24GEd has a favorite professional success story concerning a young client she was treating for anxiety.
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“Being a mental health counselor can be tough,” she observed, when speaking about factors future students should consider when choosing a master’s program in mental health counseling. “Sometimes, clients have heavy stories that can affect you. On days when the work is heavy, or you are overwhelmed, it is important to return to your purpose.”
Education Alumnus Authors Children’s Book that Celebrates Diversity
A St. John’s University triple alumnus and special education teacher recently penned a children’s book that aims to help young readers embrace and cherish the diversity within their own and others’ families.
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Education Alumnus Authors Children’s Book that Celebrates Diversity
Professional licensure and certification requirements often vary from state to state. St. John’s University has not determined requirements for individual states beyond New York. If you reside or plan to reside outside New York, you are strongly encouraged to contact the appropriate state licensing agency in that state to seek information and guidance before beginning the program.
From the Blog
What Parents Should Look for During a College Visit: a Guide to Supporting Your Student
Visiting college campuses is an exciting milestone for students and their families. It is an opportunity to see beyond brochures and websites and get a feel for what everyday college life might look like.
As a parent, do not feel the need to ask every question. Instead, think of yourself as an observer. From campus safety and student support to the overall atmosphere, in this blog post we explore what to look for during a college visit and how to help determine whether a college feels like the right fit.
Where Is St. John’s University in New York City? A Guide to the Queens Campus
Discover where St. John’s University is located in Queens, NY, and learn what makes its campus an ideal place to live, learn, and explore.
