University of Tulsa

What you'll study

This programme combines a liberal arts foundation with focused teacher preparation in specific grade levels and subject methods. Coursework emphasises evidence-based instructional strategies, classroom management, assessment, curriculum design and professional development aimed at improving practice over a career.

• Foundations of Education: history, philosophy and sociology of schooling; the role of schools in society and legal/ethical responsibilities of teachers.
• Child and Adolescent Development: developmental psychology, learning theory and implications for age-appropriate instruction.
• Subject-Specific Methods: pedagogical methods for elementary or secondary levels with routes in core subjects (English/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies) including lesson planning and content-specific assessment.
• Classroom Practice and Management: strategies for creating inclusive, productive learning environments, behaviour management and culturally responsive teaching.
• Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment, interpreting student data and using assessment to inform instruction.
• Special and Inclusive Education: principles of differentiation, adapting curriculum for diverse learners and collaborating with support services.
• Educational Technology: integrating digital tools and instructional technologies to enhance learning and professional practice.
• Professional Development and Leadership: reflective practice, action research, mentoring, and structures for continuous professional learning.
• Clinical Practice: a sequence of supervised field experiences culminating in an extended student-teaching residency in partner schools, with mentorship from university supervisors and classroom teachers.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the University of Tulsa's undergraduate admission standards and additional requirements for entry to the teacher education programme. Typical requirements include:

• Completion of secondary school or equivalent with a record of academic achievement in relevant subjects.
• Evidence of competency in the subject area you wish to teach (for secondary routes this often means college coursework in that content area).
• Successful application to the teacher education programme, which may include a written statement, references and an interview or information session.
• Demonstration of readiness for clinical experiences, which can include background checks and health/clearance requirements for school placements.
• Satisfactory completion of any programme-specific assessments or prerequisite education courses as specified by the department upon admission.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher certification and roles in primary or secondary schools depending on their chosen route. Career paths commonly include:

• Classroom teacher in elementary or secondary schools (public or independent) with certification following programme and licensure requirements.
• Instructional coach, curriculum specialist or literacy/maths interventionist working to support teacher practice and student outcomes.
• Specialist roles in inclusive education, early childhood programmes or special education support services.
• School or district professional development coordinator and teacher mentor roles focused on continuing professional learning.
• Further study leading to school leadership, educational policy, higher education or specialist areas such as educational assessment or instructional design.
• Education-related positions in non-profit organisations, community education programmes and private-sector training and development.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a personalised teacher preparation experience with small cohort sizes, close faculty mentoring and substantial supervised school placements in the Tulsa metropolitan area. The programme emphasises practical classroom experience alongside coursework in contemporary pedagogy and ongoing professional development, helping graduates move directly into certificated teaching roles.

Students benefit from connections with local schools for practicum and student-teaching placements, opportunities for collaborative research or action research projects with faculty, and access to university resources that support teaching practice and career readiness. The programme is designed to prepare reflective professionals who can lead instructional improvement in diverse educational settings.