The College of Education

Majors

• Early Childhood Education (PreK-4)
• Special Education PreK-8 with a Dual Certificate in Early Childhood
• Special Education PreK-8 with a Dual Certificate in Middle Level
• Rehabilitative Services
• Teacher Certification in Secondary Education

The conceptual framework of the teacher education program focuses on the decision-making processes of teaching and learning. The model for ESU is Teacher Education Unit Conceptual Framework 2011: Reflective and Deliberate Decision-Makers.

The beginning teacher must demonstrate knowledge and skill outcomes in four broad domains:

1. Content
2. The learner and learning environment
3. The teaching and learning process
4. Professionalism

The model is supported through the Vision, Mission, and Philosophy as well as Beginning Educator Outcomes, a Knowledge Base and Learning Cycle, Teacher Initiatives and Assessment System.

The undergraduate curricula of the College of Education are designed primarily for students preparing for teaching careers in the early childhood and elementary schools, the middle or junior high school, or the senior high school. The College of Education encompasses the departments of Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Professional and Secondary Education, Reading, and Special Education and Rehabilitation, as well as the Office of Field Experiences and Partnerships. One major purpose of the college is to prepare teachers for positions in early childhood, elementary and secondary schools and people-oriented occupations, such as social and restoration agencies, state and federal government, and private industry. 

The college provides programs that lead to eligibility for certification in a number of degree areas (see degree program list). Graduates receive the degree of bachelor of science or bachelor of arts and are eligible for certification to teach in the schools of Pennsylvania. Students are encouraged to earn certification in several fields to enhance their employment opportunities.

Full national accreditation allows the graduate to be recommended for certification to teach in most other states without further course requirements. Information and advisement on certification is available in the office of the dean of the College of Education. Graduates are eligible to receive an Instructional I certificate (provisional) which is valid for a period of six years of teaching in Pennsylvania. The Instructional I certificate must be made permanent after six years of teaching.

Graduate work is offered leading to the Master of Education in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and Reading. Students interested in graduate programs should refer to the Graduate Catalog. The programs of the College of Education are fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. All standards for program approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Education have been met.