Oregon State University

What you'll study

The programme balances core education theory with level‑and‑subject specific methods, practicum placements and coursework in professional development. You study how children and adolescents learn, how to design inclusive and standards‑aligned curriculum, and how to use assessment and educational technology to improve outcomes.

• Foundations of Education: history and philosophy of education, ethics, and the role of schools in society.
• Child and Adolescent Development: cognitive, social and emotional development across age ranges relevant to the level(s) you choose to teach.
• Curriculum and Instruction: planning lessons, backward design, standards alignment and interdisciplinary curriculum.
• Specific Levels and Methods: pedagogy tailored to early childhood, elementary or secondary levels, plus subject‑specific methods (for example, literacy, mathematics, science or social studies methods).
• Inclusive and Special Education Practices: differentiation, Universal Design for Learning, and strategies for supporting learners with diverse needs.
• Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment design, data analysis for instructional decision making, and reporting to families and stakeholders.
• Classroom Management and Positive Behaviour Support: establishing learning environments that promote engagement and safety.
• Educational Technology: integrating digital tools for teaching, blended learning approaches and remote instruction strategies.
• Professional Development and Leadership: models of ongoing teacher learning, coaching, mentoring and school improvement processes.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: progressively intensive field experiences in partnership schools culminating in a full‑time student teaching placement or residency.
• Capstone or Portfolio: synthesis of coursework and practicum evidencing readiness for classroom practice and ongoing professional growth.

Entry requirements

Admission to the degree requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of any university introductory requirements. Admission into the teacher preparation sequence is typically a selective process; you apply to the professional education component after completing prerequisite coursework and demonstrating readiness for clinical placements.

• Successful completion of college‑preparatory secondary studies or equivalent qualification.
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in areas such as English/composition and mathematics; subject‑matter preparation for those seeking secondary licences.
• Submission of an application to the teacher education programme, which commonly includes a personal statement, references or recommendations, and a record of relevant experience working with children or youth.
• Demonstration of basic skills and content knowledge through university assessments or recognised examinations, where required by the programme or state licencing expectations.
• Clearances for practicum participation, including background checks and health requirements as set by partner school districts.
• Ongoing professional dispositions assessments during the programme to confirm readiness for student teaching and initial licensure pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in K–12 education and related fields. Many complete the programme with the coursework and practicum experiences necessary to pursue initial teacher licensure in the state where they studied, subject to passing required licensure examinations and meeting local certification requirements.

• Classroom teacher at early years, elementary or secondary levels (subject to licensure)
• Specialist instructor roles such as literacy or mathematics interventionist
• Instructional coach, mentor teacher or professional development facilitator within school districts
• Curriculum developer, assessment specialist or educational consultant for schools or educational organisations
• Roles in education policy, non‑profit organisations, community education and informal learning settings
• Progression to postgraduate study in curriculum, educational leadership, special education or teacher education for career advancement

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State University combines a research‑intensive environment with robust teacher preparation through its College of Education and campus partnerships with regional school districts. Students benefit from evidence‑based instruction, experienced faculty who are active researchers and practitioners, and extensive practicum and residency networks that place candidates in diverse classrooms.

• Strong emphasis on applied learning: progressive field experiences and student teaching embedded throughout the degree.
• Access to faculty research in learning sciences, special education and educational technology, informing classroom practice.
• Collaborative partnerships with local and regional schools that offer varied placement settings and mentorship opportunities.
• Support services for teacher candidates including advising, career services and assistance with licensure processes and job placement.
• Flexible delivery options and resources through OSU’s campus and extended‑education platforms that can support transfer students and working learners.