Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme integrates behavioural science perspectives with professional teacher education. You study core topics in child and adolescent development, educational psychology, and behaviour management alongside subject-specific methods for teaching literacy, mathematics, social studies and science at the primary level.

• Foundations: courses in human growth and development, educational psychology, and theories of learning.
• Content methods: literacy methods, mathematics methods, science and social studies pedagogy for grades 1–6.
• Assessment & curriculum: formative and summative assessment, differentiated instruction, curriculum planning and standards-aligned design.
• Inclusive practice: special and diverse learners, classroom management, behaviour interventions and strategies for culturally responsive teaching.
• Research & evidence: introductory research methods, using data to inform instruction and applied projects in behavioural science.
• Professional experience: progressively supervised field experiences culminating in a semester-long student teaching placement in elementary classrooms.

Entry requirements

Admission normally requires a high school diploma or recognised equivalent and submission of official transcripts. Applicants are typically expected to meet the College's academic standards and any faculty-specific prerequisite requirements in areas such as English and mathematics.

As this is a professional teacher preparation programme, applicants must be eligible for school-based field placements; this may include background checks, health clearance (for example immunisation or TB screening where required), and any state-mandated clearances. Additional selection elements can include a personal statement, references and an interview or admissions assessment. Specific GPA thresholds, testing and certification requirements are set by the College and by the state education authorities and should be checked with Mercy College admissions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher certification and employment as elementary classroom teachers for grades 1–6. Career paths include:

• Primary/elementary classroom teacher in public or independent schools.
• Specialist roles such as literacy coach, curriculum coordinator or behaviour support practitioner (often following additional experience or qualifications).
• Support positions in education settings, including teaching assistant roles, early intervention or youth services.
• Further study routes into special education, educational leadership, school counselling or applied research in education and behavioural sciences.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College combines applied behavioural science with a strong emphasis on practicum and local school partnerships, giving students regular, supervised classroom experience. Students benefit from faculty who have professional experience in schools and from College services that support certification pathways, career planning and academic advising.

The programme is designed to align with state requirements for teacher preparation, and the College works with local districts to place students in diverse classroom settings. Small class sizes, hands-on practicum and a focus on inclusive, evidence-based teaching practices help graduates transition into classroom roles with practical skills and professional readiness.