Non-Certification Major and Minor Options

Requirements (PDF)  Major Course Sequence (PDF)

The Education Studies major strives to provide students with an integrated learning experience that will provide them with a strong academic foundation in education, develop culturally competent skills and dispositions in order to be leaders within educational institutions and among children and youth. The Education Studies major fosters within students a deep understanding of the complexity of education and schooling as well as an ability to think critically about the ways in which education intersects with a broad range of social, cultural, political and economic forces.

The Education Studies major is appropriate for students who plan to have careers in fields where they might deal with issues related to individuals and educational institutions; and for students interested in a broad introduction to educational issues. The major is also appropriate for students who intend to pursue graduate study in other liberal arts areas, but who need a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of educational issues. The Education Studies major also provides a foundation that is appropriate for students who may choose to enter a teacher certification program at the graduate level as well as for students who may later wish to embark upon other careers in education.

Career Possibilities

There are many career opportunities in the field of education besides becoming a classroom teacher. Education is a constantly growing field and global policy priority. Visionary leaders as well as professionals working behind the scenes on important education issues are in high demand.

Graduates may consider positions in areas such as:

• Non-classroom positions within the school system
• Youth services worker
• Coordinator for after school program
• Academic advisor or counselor
• Social entrepreneur
• Manager of special projects at an educational non-profit
• Program coordinator
• Family Support Specialist
• Advocacy and community engagement coordinator
• Youth advocate
• With post-graduate education: guidance counselor, curriculum developer, speech language pathologist, child life specialist (to name a few)

Teacher Education/Certification

This program does not lead to a teaching certificate, however some Education Studies majors do hope eventually to enter the teaching profession.  This program can precede graduate study for a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or Master of Arts in Education (MAED). Additionally, students may seek out alternative teacher preparations programs (i.e., Uncommon Schools, Teacher Residency Programs offered by different states)

Features of The Education Studies Major

Study Abroad
Education Studies majors are encouraged to study abroad. There are various programs (during the academic year and during the summer) majors can choose from. Currently the Education Department offers a study abroad trip to Cuba, investigating education from a comparative and international lens.

Immersive/ Experiential Learning
Immersive, hands-on learning opportunities are integral to the education studies major. Education studies majors are required to complete a yearlong internship experience (senior year). Through internships in local organizations and service-learning projects in education settings, students will apply concepts learned in their classes and gain a deeper understanding of their place and potential in the field of education.

Students may also minor in education studies.

Minor Course Sequence (PDF)

The education studies minor program (non-certification) offered is designed for students seeking to expand their knowledge base in the area of education. The minor program provides foundational knowledge about the field of education and allows students the opportunity to study a wide variety of important educational issues. It is open to all students, regardless of major.

All students completing the minor will gain valuable knowledge that will be helpful to them in their roles as citizens, parents, and whatever occupations they choose. The minor program also facilitates student options for continuing education and/or graduate study.

The minor includes a total of six courses (four required courses and the education minor student
can select two of four electives). 

Required Courses
• EDU 204 Educational Psychology (4)
• EDU 206 Orientation in Education* (4)
• EDU 308 Multicultural Education* (4)
• EDU 222 Global Education (4)

Electives (select two from the following courses)
• ASL 101 Elementary American Sign Language (4)
• PSY 302 Child Psychology (4)
• PSY 304 Adolescent Psychology (4)
• EDU 392 Adult and Family Literacy (4)
• EDU 407 Advocacy in Urban Schools (4)
• EDU 455 History & Philosophy of African-American Education (4)

*Field Experience required.