A track in Early Childhood Education prepares students to provide high quality education and care for children birth through age eight in a wide variety of settings. Graduates are qualified to work as teachers and directors in:
Students develop their understanding of typically and atypically developing children through integrated coursework and field experience, as well as two semester-long practicums. The required minor provides the opportunity for students to explore a related field, adding to their knowledge and skills for working with young children and their parents, or expanding their expertise for employment opportunities.
The Special Education – Learning Disabilities program expands the basic elementary education program to prepare teachers to work with students with learning disabilities from kindergarten through grade 12. Program features include extended field experience in regular and special education settings, and focused development of the knowledge and skills critical for effective teachers.
Graduates are prepared for elementary-level teacher certification in Michigan, which permits individuals to teach in self-contained classrooms at grades K-8, and in all subjects at grade K-5, as well as a Learning Disabilities endorsement for grades K-12.
Contact Chad Barbour at [email protected] for more information.
Clinical field experience is a hallmark of all programs in the School of Education. Students complete field experience hours as part of their professional education coursework, being placed at appropriate levels in area elementary schools, and secondary schools.
The School of Education is committed to preparing teachers for small, rural schools, which have unique cultures and expectations. Through partnerships with schools in the Eastern Upper Peninsula and in Ontario, School of Education students work closely with cooperating teachers in their clinical field experiences and in the culminating practicums and student teaching experiences.
Career Paths