Phone: 845-257-2850
Location: Old Main Building, Room 323
Web address: www.newpaltz.edu/secondaryed/ 
The Adolescence Education unit of the Department of Teaching & Learning offers instruction leading to New York State initial and professional certification to teach the following subjects in Grades 7-12: English, Mathematics, the sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics), and Social Studies. Certificates for teaching in New York State are automatically accepted for teaching in many other states.
In addition, a minor in Adolescence Education is available. Though the minor does not lead to eligibility for a New York State teacher certificate, it may be of interest to students seeking an introduction to the field of secondary education. Furthermore, for students pursuing a BA in Biology, Chemistry or Geology or a BS in Mathematics, the Adolescence Education minor is designed to facilitate completion of two degrees in five years: the undergraduate BA or BS and the graduate MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching). For more information about this accelerated pathway, please speak with a faculty advisor in the Department of Teaching & Learning.
Adolescence Education Program:
- Admission Requirements
- Education Course Requirements
- Majors
- Additional Requirements
- Student Teaching Admission Requirements
- Student Teaching Handbook
- Minor
- Course Descriptions
- 8 Semester Plans
- Faculty
- Program Changes
Notice to Persons Who Have Prior Felony Convictions
State University of New York (SUNY) policy prohibits SUNY New Paltz admission applications from inquiring into an applicant’s prior criminal history. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet the licensure requirements for certain professions, including the program in Adolescence Education.
Individuals with prior criminal histories are advised to seek advice and guidance from the chair of the academic department regarding the impact of a criminal record on meeting the requirements of the major/professional licensure or certification prior to declaring the major.
