Wartburg College

What you'll study

This programme combines liberal-arts study with professional courses that focus on teaching methods, curriculum design and teacher development. Core study typically covers foundations of education, human development and learning theory, classroom management, assessment and differentiated instruction. Students take level- and subject-specific methods courses (for example elementary methods, secondary content methods in mathematics, science, social studies or language arts), literacy instruction, and special education principles and adaptations.

Practical experience is emphasised through sequenced field placements, clinical practica and a full-time student-teaching placement in partner schools. Courses on educational technology, culturally responsive teaching and inclusive practices prepare candidates to design effective instruction for diverse learners. Capstone work often involves lesson-planning portfolios, performance assessments and reflective study of professional growth.

• Foundations of Education and Philosophy of Teaching
• Child and Adolescent Development
• Classroom Management and Learning Environments
• Assessment, Measurement and Data-Informed Instruction
• Subject-Specific Methods (elementary; early childhood; secondary content areas)
• Reading and Literacy Instruction
• Special Education and Differentiated Instruction
• Instructional Technology and Digital Pedagogy
• Practicum Sequence and Student Teaching
• Professional Development, Leadership and Ethics in Education

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet Wartburg College's general undergraduate admission criteria. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong academic performance, satisfactory references and a clear interest in working with children or adolescents. Admission into the teacher education programme itself is usually a two-stage process: initial entry to the college followed by formal admission to the teacher education sequence after completing introductory coursework and meeting college-specified GPA and conduct standards.

Because teacher certification is governed at state level, candidates must be prepared to complete background checks and any state-mandated requirements such as health screenings or immunisations. Some states or programmes require standardised test scores or performance assessments for licensure; applicants should consult Wartburg's education department and the relevant state education agency for the specific licensing steps in the state where they intend to teach.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to seek initial teacher licensure and employment as classroom teachers at the elementary, middle or secondary levels depending on their certification area. Beyond classroom teaching, common career pathways include roles as literacy specialists, special education teachers, instructional coaches, curriculum coordinators, professional development facilitators, education consultants and school administrators with further study.

The programme also prepares graduates for graduate study in education, educational leadership, counselling or specialised areas such as reading, special education and curriculum development. Practical school partnerships and supervised placements help graduates build professional networks and classroom experience valued by employers.

Why study at Wartburg College

Wartburg College offers a teacher education programme that integrates a liberal-arts perspective with hands-on professional training and sustained school partnerships. Small class sizes and faculty who are experienced teacher-educators provide personalised mentoring and close supervision during field experiences. The college's connections with regional schools support a variety of practicum and student-teaching placements that expose candidates to diverse classroom settings.

Wartburg emphasises professional and ethical formation, reflective practice and ongoing professional development, helping candidates not only meet licensure requirements but also develop the skills for a career of continuous growth in education. Students benefit from academic support services, career and placement assistance, and opportunities to engage in community outreach and co-curricular activities that enrich their preparation as classroom leaders.