Salisbury University

What you'll study

The programme combines core education studies with specific methods courses and sustained school-based experience. Core topics include foundations of education, developmental psychology for children and adolescents, classroom management, assessment and data-informed instruction, curriculum design, inclusion and differentiation, and educational technology.

Alongside these foundations, you will take specialist methods modules tailored to the level and subject area you choose (for example elementary literacy, middle-level mathematics and science methods, or secondary subject pedagogy). Practical elements include sequenced practicum placements in local schools and a culminating, supervised student-teaching internship that emphasises lesson planning, assessment, classroom routines and professional collaboration.

Courses also address professional development as an ongoing practice: reflective teaching, action research, mentoring and leadership skills that help graduates support colleagues and contribute to school improvement. Elective options and seminars allow you to explore topics such as special educational needs, English language learners, and culturally responsive pedagogy.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and satisfy Salisbury University’s undergraduate admission criteria. Admission to the Teacher Education programme typically requires a minimum academic standing, successful completion of initial general-education coursework, and a clear criminal background check as required for working with children.

Additional requirements commonly include evidence of effective communication and basic numeracy, letters of recommendation, and a short reflective statement of purpose or interview demonstrating commitment to teaching. Candidates should be prepared to meet any state-required pre-service screenings or basic skills/content assessments and to provide documentation of immunisations if required for school placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teaching roles across early childhood, elementary, middle and secondary levels, depending on the subject and level specialism chosen. Typical first posts include classroom teacher positions in public and independent schools, literacy specialist roles, and middle-tier subject teaching appointments.

Beyond classroom teaching, alumni often move into roles such as instructional coach, curriculum developer, special education support, assessment coordinator, or school-based professional development leader. Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in education, educational leadership, school counselling or specialist areas such as literacy instruction or special needs.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers teacher preparation grounded in substantial, locally anchored school partnerships across the Eastern Shore, giving students frequent and varied clinical experiences. Small cohort sizes and accessible faculty tutors mean personalised feedback during practicum and student teaching.

The programme emphasises evidence-based practice, reflective inquiry and preparation for lifelong professional development, with opportunities to engage in classroom-based action research and mentorships. Graduates leave with the pedagogical skills, content-specific methods and professional dispositions sought by schools and education employers regionally and beyond.