University of Mount Union

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational courses in education theory with subject- and level-specific methods courses and sustained clinical practice. You will study how children and adolescents learn, how to design and assess curriculum, and how to manage diverse classrooms while integrating technology and inclusive practices.

• Foundations of Education: history and philosophy of education, human development and learning theories, ethics and professionalism.
• Subject-specific Methods: pedagogy and curriculum development tailored to primary/elementary, middle or secondary levels and to particular subject areas (e.g. mathematics, science, English, social studies, modern languages).
• Classroom Management and Inclusive Practice: behaviour management strategies, classroom culture, differentiation and teaching students with diverse needs, including strategies for English language learners and special educational needs.
• Assessment and Instructional Design: formative and summative assessment, standards-aligned planning, data-informed instruction and use of assessment to guide learning.
• Educational Technology: using digital tools to support instruction, blended and online learning approaches, and instructional media design.
• Professional Development and Leadership: adult learning principles, mentoring and coaching, facilitating professional learning communities and ongoing teacher development.
• Field Experiences and Student Teaching: progressive practicum placements in partner schools, culminating in a full-term student teaching placement under mentor supervision and a capstone project reflecting professional growth.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or recognised equivalent and demonstrate readiness for undergraduate study. Typical entry expectations include a competitive secondary-school record and completion of core academic subjects.

• A strong academic transcript with emphasis on subjects relevant to the intended teaching level or method.
• Submission of application materials as required by the university (application form, personal statement, and references).
• Successful completion of any pre-admission interviews or diagnostic assessments set by the School of Education.
• Clearances required for placement in local schools (for example background checks and health/immunisation documentation), completed prior to field experiences.
• Progression in the programme typically requires meeting university and state education department benchmarks, including GPA thresholds in professional coursework and successful performance in practicum components.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher licensure and employment as classroom teachers at the elementary, middle or secondary levels, depending on the specific methods and endorsements completed. The programme also supports careers beyond the classroom in roles that focus on teacher learning and school improvement.

• Classroom teacher (elementary, middle or secondary) in public and independent schools.
• Specialist roles such as literacy coach, instructional coach, curriculum specialist or assessment coordinator.
• Positions in school leadership and administration (typically with further study or certification).
• Educational consultancy, professional development facilitator, or staff developer for school districts and educational organisations.
• Opportunities in informal education settings, non-profit organisations, tutoring and educational publishing.

Why study at University of Mount Union

The University of Mount Union emphasises small classes, close faculty mentoring and a strong clinical model that places students in local schools from early in the programme. Students benefit from longstanding partnerships with regional districts, experienced education faculty who combine scholarship with classroom experience, and structured support for licensure and job placement.

Additional strengths include integrated career and field-placement services, opportunities for undergraduate research and leadership within schools, and a community-focused campus culture that supports reflective practice and ongoing professional development.