Urban Teaching Residency
The Urban Teaching Residency Master of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a two-year, full-time graduate program designed to prepare educators for high-impact teaching roles in urban school settings. This program integrates rigorous pedagogical training with immersive classroom experience, enabling students to develop the skills necessary to address diverse learning needs and foster academic success in complex urban environments. The curriculum emphasizes instructional strategies, curriculum development, classroom management, and educational equity, providing a strong foundation for teaching in schools with varied student populations. Through research-informed practice, residents gain expertise in designing engaging lessons, assessing learning outcomes, and implementing culturally responsive teaching methods.
Throughout the program, students participate in full-time, supervised teaching residencies where they apply theory to practice under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers and faculty. The combination of classroom immersion, reflective practice, and professional development seminars ensures that graduates emerge with both practical experience and leadership potential. The program also focuses on community engagement, collaboration with school administrators, and strategies for addressing systemic challenges in education. Graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in urban schools while advancing critical thinking, instructional competence, leadership, and educational innovation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Urban Teaching Residency
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Education
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Urban Education
- Introduction to Urban Teaching and Learning
- Educational Psychology and Child Development
- Curriculum Design and Instructional Strategies
- Classroom Observation and Reflective Practice
Semester 2 – Applied Teaching Methods
- Differentiated Instruction and Assessment
- Classroom Management and Inclusive Practices
- Technology Integration in Urban Classrooms
- Clinical Residency I: Supervised Teaching
Semester 3 – Advanced Pedagogy and Leadership
- Literacy and Numeracy Instruction in Diverse Classrooms
- Culturally Responsive Teaching
- Data-Driven Instructional Planning
- Clinical Residency II: Independent Teaching
Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Development
- Action Research in Urban Education
- Policy and Advocacy in Education
- Clinical Residency III: Full-Time Teaching Immersion
- Capstone Project and Professional Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Urban Teaching Residency program are prepared to take on impactful teaching roles in urban schools, public and charter schools, and community education programs. They may also pursue leadership positions such as instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, or education program coordinators. The program equips graduates with the skills to improve student outcomes, implement inclusive teaching practices, and contribute to educational policy and reform initiatives. By combining hands-on classroom experience with advanced pedagogical knowledge, alumni are able to drive meaningful change in urban education, making them valuable assets to schools, districts, and educational organizations committed to equity and excellence.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its emphasis on immersive, hands-on teaching experience combined with a strong foundation in educational theory, cultural competence, leadership, and research-based practice. Students benefit from close mentorship with experienced educators, extensive classroom residencies, and professional development opportunities that prepare them to lead and innovate in urban schools. The two-year structure allows for progressive mastery of teaching skills while engaging with diverse student populations and school communities. Graduates leave not only with certification and practical experience but also with the confidence and vision to make a lasting impact in urban education through inclusive, effective, and data-informed teaching practices.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
