Benedictine University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational education courses with level-specific methods and a focus on teacher professional growth. Core studies cover educational psychology, classroom management, assessment and data-informed instruction, literacy instruction, inclusive practices and behaviour supports. Students select a specific level or method pathway—such as early childhood/elementary, middle grades, secondary content methods or special education—where they study subject-specific pedagogy, curriculum planning and differentiation strategies.

Practical experience is central: early field experiences move to extended placements and a capstone student-teaching semester in partnership with local schools. Coursework addresses professional development topics including instructional coaching, mentor teacher roles, curriculum implementation, reflective practice and teacher leadership. Elective seminars and clinics give additional practice in areas such as English language learners, technology in the classroom, assessment design and classroom-based research.

Entry requirements

• Completed secondary school qualification or recognised equivalent.
• A competitive cumulative grade average in prior study; some programme pathways may set higher GPA expectations.
• Evidence of readiness for professional studies, typically through a personal statement and references that speak to communication skills and suitability to work with children.
• Background checks, health requirements (for placement in partner schools) and any immunisations required by placement providers.
• Placement suitability screening, which may include interviews, demonstration lessons or a review of prior experience; proof of competence in relevant subject areas for secondary methods may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher licensure and classroom roles across designated grade bands and subject areas. Common destinations include elementary or secondary classroom teacher positions, middle grades specialist roles and special education teaching. Because the programme emphasises professional development and instructional leadership, graduates also move into roles such as instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, mentor teacher, professional learning facilitator or school-based trainer.

Other pathways include work in education-related NGOs, tutoring and intervention programmes, curriculum publishing, and progression to postgraduate study in education, educational leadership or specialised certification areas.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a student-centred teacher preparation pathway with extensive partnerships across regional schools, enabling diverse practicum and student-teaching placements. Small cohort sizes provide close mentoring from faculty who combine academic scholarship with PK–12 classroom experience. The campus emphasises reflective practice, ethics and service, and students benefit from resources such as literacy clinics, technology-equipped learning labs and career services that support placement and licensure guidance.

The programme’s structure balances subject-method depth with professional development training, helping graduates not only enter the classroom but also lead and sustain improvement in teaching practice throughout their careers.