The College of Education

Majors

• Early Childhood Education PreK-4 (Certification Preparation)
• Early Childhood Professional Program (Non-Certification)
• Middle Level Education 4-8 (Certification Preparation) 
• Secondary Education 7-12 (Certification Preparation) 

• Special Education PreK-8/Early Childhood PreK-4 (Certification Preparation)
• Special Education PreK-8/Middle Level 4-8 (Certification Preparation)
• Special Education 7 - 12/Secondary Education 7 - 12 (Certification Preparation)
• Rehabilitative Services

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: 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 of certification preparation programs receive the degree of bachelor of science or bachelor of arts and are eligible to apply 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.

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 (NCATE). All standards for program approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Education have been met.