Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme combines core education theory with subject-specific methods and progressive field experience. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Education and Educational Psychology – theories of learning, child and adolescent development, and classroom application.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment – curriculum frameworks, formative and summative assessment, standards-aligned planning.
• Classroom Management and Inclusive Practice – behaviour management strategies, differentiation, meeting diverse learning needs including SEN and EAL learners.
• Literacy and Numeracy Methods – strategies for teaching reading, writing and mathematics across year groups.
• Subject-Specific Pedagogy – methods courses for those preparing to teach secondary subjects (for example English, mathematics, science, social studies).
• Educational Technology – integrating digital tools, blended learning design and media literacy in the classroom.
• Multicultural and Social Justice Education – culturally responsive pedagogy, equity in education and community engagement.
• Research Methods in Education – introductory research skills, action research and using evidence to inform practice.

Programme structure typically combines major coursework with the university’s general education requirements. Practical experience is central: early supervised practicum placements lead to longer student-teaching placements in partner schools, and placements are negotiated to provide experience across key stages and diverse settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation in high school, especially in English and mathematics, and an aptitude for working with young people. Typical application elements include:

• Completed secondary school qualifications with competitive grades.
• A personal statement outlining motivation for a career in education and prior experience with children or young people (paid or voluntary).
• One or more academic or character references.
• Some programmes may request an interview or evidence of classroom experience.
• Successful applicants must meet professional clearance requirements for school placements (these commonly include background checks and health requirements).

Specific departmental or licensure pathways (for example primary versus secondary certification) may have additional subject prerequisites or portfolio requirements; applicants should consult the programme admissions guidance for precise details.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in education. Common first destinations include classroom teaching in primary or secondary settings (often following completion of any state licensure requirements), teaching assistant roles, and specialist support such as literacy coaching or special educational needs support. With further professional qualifications, graduates often move into roles such as curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, school leadership, educational policy or administration. Other pathways include educational publishing, learning design in edtech companies, youth work and roles within non-profit organisations focused on education and community development.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers an education programme grounded in research and close collaboration with local schools and community partners, giving students substantial, supervised classroom experience. The university emphasises interdisciplinary study, enabling education majors to draw on strengths across departments—for example psychology, sociology, and STEM—while benefiting from small seminar-style classes and faculty who are active researchers in pedagogy and learning sciences. Students also have access to career services, alumni networks and resources for teacher preparation, including guidance on certification and graduate study options that support long-term professional development.