Division of Education
Overview
Whether you’re interested in teaching preschool children or teenagers, this division offers bachelor of science degrees in 10 different programs that meet the Alabama Department of Education teacher certification requirements. Along with content mastery courses and teaching pedagogy, you’ll pursue a liberal arts curriculum that cultivates the diversity and creativity essential to the teaching profession.
Majors
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This interdisciplinary program will prepare you for careers in environments ranging from hospitals and Head Start programs to children’s museums and state agencies. Or, you can continue your studies in related fields, such as speech pathology, special education, early intervention, and counseling.
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Want to work with children from preschool through grade three? This major will prepare you with courses ranging from psychology to Spanish, algebra to the performing arts. In addition to classroom observation and student teaching, you’ll also take coursework for certification in elementary education (grades kindergarten through six).
The Early Childhood Education curriculum leads to the Bachelor of Science degree with Class B teacher certification from the State of Alabama.
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This major will prepare you to work with children from preschool through grade three, with courses ranging from psychology to Spanish, algebra to the performing arts. In addition to classroom observation and student teaching, you’ll also take coursework for certification in elementary education (grades kindergarten through six).
The Elementary Education curriculum leads to the Bachelor of Science degree with Class B Teacher Certification from the State of Alabama.
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The secondary education programs lead to the bachelor of science degrees (or bachelor of music education) and to Class B Teacher Certification from the State of Alabama. Candidates seeking certification in two or more related fields (e.g., chemistry education and general science education) may be divided between the two teaching fields. The programs are designed to prepare teachers of grades 7–12, and include classroom observation and teaching practicums in local schools.
The following Secondary Education programs are available:
Biology/Biology Education
Get a thorough grounding in biology and related science courses such as chemistry and physics. Then, learn how to facilitate learning with courses that cover everything from technology to on-site teaching practicums. See course catalog
Biology/General Science Education
Coursework includes biology, psychology, zoology and microbiology, and extends to environmental science. You’ll learn how to translate this knowledge for young learners through teaching-focused courses and real-world practice. See course catalog
Chemistry/Chemistry Education
Coursework covers the discipline from every angle, as well as pedagogical practices. Supervised student teaching sets you up for a successful career in education. See course catalog
English/Language Arts Education
Bring literature and language to life with coursework that runs the gamut from African American literature to creative writing and theater. You’ll also have practical pedagogy classes, classroom observation and teaching in local schools. See course catalog
History/Social Science Education
Examine human history from multiple viewpoints—African, women’s, ancient European and more—as you prepare for an important role in young people’s lives. The program includes classroom observation and teaching practice in local schools. See course catalog
Mathematics/Mathematics Education
This major offers effective strategies to engage learners in mathematics, as well as coursework in advanced math. A solid liberal arts curriculum combines with practical classes and student teaching to build your skills. See course catalog
Music/Music Education–Instrumental
Strings and sight-reading. Basic conducting and the brass method. Keyboards and voice diction. This major touches every aspect of instrumental music. The curriculum culminates in 12 weeks of student teaching. See course catalog
Opportunities
Clubs & Organizations
Student Alabama Education Association
If you’re seeking a teaching certificate in the early childhood, elementary or secondary programs, you must maintain active membership in SAEA throughout your time as an education major.
Kappa Delta Phi
Candidates with GPAs of 3.0 and higher may be invited to join this prestigious international honor society, which provides opportunities for enrichment and lifelong resources for professional growth and renewal.
Other Opportunities
Internship: Observation and Student Teaching
All education majors enroll in this intensive practicum, where you’ll interpret and synthesize theory in classroom settings. This is your opportunity to assume increasing responsibility for guiding the experiences of a group of learners.
Laboratory and Field Experiences
Before taking on an internship, you’ll spend at least 150 hours observing classroom environments. These extended field experiences have specific purposes and assessments.