Shawnee State University

What you'll study

This programme combines general education, subject‑area coursework and professional education classes focused on pedagogy, assessment and classroom practice for specific grade levels and teaching methods. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Education: history and philosophy of education, ethics and the role of schools in communities.
• Human Growth and Development: child and adolescent development, learning theory and differentiated instruction across age ranges.
• Curriculum and Instruction: curriculum design, lesson planning, standards‑based instruction and instructional models.
• Methods in Specific Content Areas: subject‑specific pedagogy such as elementary general methods and secondary methods for mathematics, science, language arts or social studies.
• Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment strategies, data‑driven instruction and progress monitoring.
• Classroom Management and Inclusive Practice: positive behaviour supports, classroom organisation and approaches for diverse learners, including collaboration with special education.
• Educational Technology: integration of digital tools, instructional design and remote/hybrid teaching strategies.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: multiple supervised field experiences in local schools culminating in a full‑time student teaching placement with guided mentorship and a professional portfolio.
• Professional Development and Leadership: continuing professional learning, coaching, mentoring and approaches to leading curriculum initiatives in schools.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and to meet the university's general undergraduate admission standards. For admission to the teacher education sequence, candidates are usually required to:

• Demonstrate satisfactory academic preparation with a competitive cumulative GPA from secondary school or previous post‑secondary study.
• Provide standardised test scores (where required by the university) or meet alternative placement criteria.
• Complete initial education courses and pass subject‑related or basic skills checks as required by the teacher education office.
• Undergo a background check and meet health/clearance requirements for school placements (for example immunisation or TB screening where applicable).
• Submit references and participate in an interview or admission review to assess suitability for working with children and young people.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher licensure and employment in public and private schools at the levels specified by their programme (elementary, middle or secondary). Career paths commonly include:

• Classroom teacher in elementary or secondary schools across subject areas.
• Instructional coach, curriculum specialist or professional development facilitator within school districts.
• Specialist roles such as literacy coordinator, STEM coordinator or educational technology specialist (often with additional certification or experience).
• Alternative education settings, tutoring and educational intervention programmes.
• With further graduate study, roles in school leadership, educational policy, teacher education or higher education.

Why study at Shawnee State University

Shawnee State offers a teacher education programme with a regional focus and strong connections to local school districts, ensuring frequent, supervised clinical experiences in partner classrooms. Small class sizes allow close mentoring from faculty who have PK–12 experience and active involvement in classroom practice. The programme is structured to align with state licensure expectations and emphasises practical skill development, classroom management, and ongoing professional learning so graduates are classroom‑ready and supported in the transition to full‑time teaching. Additional supports include career services, alumni networks in regional schools and opportunities to engage with community education initiatives.