Partnership Provides Accelerated Pathways for Aspiring Educators

Wesleyan University and Bank Street Graduate School of Education have launched a new partnership to create accelerated master’s degree pathways for students interested in pursuing careers in education. The initiative offers Wesleyan students the opportunity to fast-track their graduate education while preparing to become the kind of curious and courageous teachers schools need today.

“When you look at the kinds of programs that Bank Street offers and their mission statement about education and equity and the importance of public education, all of that aligns very well with what Wesleyan does and our academic mission statements and goals,” said Chair of Education Studies Louise Neary. The high caliber education of both institutions also makes the partnership a good fit. “[Bank Street] is really looking for partners with high academic standards and our liberal arts college focus,” she added.

Through the partnership, Wesleyan students who have completed prerequisite coursework in education and psychology can apply during their senior year—or within three years of graduation—for admission to begin graduate studies at Bank Street in New York. Students may transfer up to eight undergraduate credits toward their master’s degree, saving both time and approximately 26 percent in tuition costs. They do not have to major in Education Studies, Neary confirmed.

Bank Street program director Abby Kerlin said, “We are thrilled to offer this unique partnership program that further bolsters students’ undergraduate foundation as social justice educators and builds their capacity for thoughtful, reflective teacher research, curriculum development, and relationship-building.”

Aspiring student educators can pursue one of two pathways: a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Early Childhood General Education, which leads to eligibility for New York State teacher certification for birth through grade 2, or an MSEd in Childhood General Education, which leads to certification for grades 1 through 6. The programs begin as early as Fall 2026, with scholarships and financial aid available.

Through the accelerated programs students will experience a balance of coursework, mentored fieldwork, and reflective practice. Along with a deep understanding of child development, students will learn Bank Street’s developmental-interaction approach for active learning that makes use of play, social interactions, and sensory experiences along with engagement in the worlds of literacy, literature, mathematics, science, arts, and social studies.

Extensive hands-on practice in classrooms also provides the training students need to stand out as forward-thinking educators and changemakers who are confident, well-prepared, and ready to make a difference.

Graduates will join a national and global community of educators—including many Wesleyan alumni in the field—dedicated to equity, inquiry, and advocacy for children and families. With access to this supportive professional network, they will also have lifelong development opportunities and mentorship.

For prospective applicants, Wesleyan alumni and Bank Street are hosting an information session on February 2, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Boger Hall, room 114. Interested students are encouraged to register.

For more information, contact Education Studies Chair Louise Neary at lneary@wesleyan.edu; Bank Street Program Director Abby Kerlin at akerlin@bankstreet.edu; or Director of Graduate Admissions Andie Hine at gradadmissions@bankstreet.edu or 212-875-4404.