Rollins College

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations in learning and curriculum with practical methods specific to particular grade ranges and subject areas. Core topics include curriculum design and alignment, classroom assessment and data-informed instruction, differentiated and inclusive pedagogy, and strategies for leading professional learning. Method-specific seminars focus on planning and instruction for elementary, middle, secondary or subject-specific classrooms (for example literacy, mathematics, science or language arts), emphasising lesson design, formative assessment and standards-based practice.

Students complete a substantial practicum or supervised teaching project in local schools, and undertake an action research or capstone project that applies professional development models within a real educational setting. Additional modules cover classroom management, educational technology and digital pedagogy, culturally responsive teaching, mentorship and coaching techniques, and legal and ethical issues in education.

• Foundations of learning and curriculum theory
• Methods and materials for specific levels and subjects
• Assessment, data use and progress monitoring
• Differentiation, inclusion and special educational needs
• Instructional coaching, professional development design and leadership
• Action research or capstone practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Candidates with prior teaching certification or classroom experience are well suited, though the programme also supports career-changers with relevant preparatory experience or coursework. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals in teacher education, and letters of recommendation that speak to the applicant’s potential for graduate-level study and work with learners.

Other admissions conditions may include a résumé or CV, evidence of experience working with children or youth (paid or volunteer), and a background check or clearance when required for practicum placements. Some applicants may be invited to an interview with faculty to discuss fit with specialisms and professional aims.

Career prospects

Graduates work in a range of school-based and system-level roles. Common career paths include classroom teacher at the grade level or subject specialism of study, instructional coach or mentor, curriculum specialist, and coordinator of professional development within school districts. Other opportunities are available in educational consulting, non-profit education programmes, curriculum publishing or continuing to doctoral study in education, educational leadership or teacher education.

The programme is also appropriate for school leaders who wish to deepen their capacity to design effective staff development, evaluate teaching quality, and lead sustained instructional improvement across departments or schools.

Why study at Rollins College

Rollins offers a small, personalised graduate environment where students work closely with experienced faculty who have classroom and leadership backgrounds. The college emphasises hands-on practicum experiences through partnerships with local schools, allowing candidates to apply methods in real classrooms and to lead authentic professional learning initiatives.

Students benefit from a liberal-arts approach that fosters reflective practice, strong communication skills and interdisciplinary perspectives, together with access to regional educational resources in the greater Orlando area. The cohort model and alumni network provide professional support and connections that help graduates move into leadership roles in education.