The preparation of teachers has been a proud and historic part of the heritage of Washington & Jefferson College since its founding in 1781. The education department’s mission is to attract to the teaching profession intelligent caring men and women of competence, maturity, and creativity who are effective lifelong learners, responsible citizens, and personal and professional role models prepared to contribute positively to the world in which they live. To fulfill its educational mission, the education department offers a broad curriculum that actively involves students in student taught demonstration lessons and diverse field experiences connecting educational theory with best practice. Active learning and complete cognitive and social participation are required of all participants. The philosophy of the program is that the way to learn to teach is to teach incorporated in the motto “Docendo Discimus” -- “We learn by teaching.”
Areas of Study
1. Early Childhood Certification, Pre-K-4
2. Upper Elementary Education Certification (grades 4-8) There are two tracks for this certification area:
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Track One: Major in child development and education with a specially designated minor in one of the four academic content areas. Complete a specially designated minor in Language Arts (English), or mathematics, or science (Biology or Environmental Studies), or social studies (history). Fore more information, view the college catalog.
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Track Two: Students major in one of the four content areas: English, mathematics, science (biology or environmental studies) or history and minor in education taking additional specific academic content courses related to grades 4-8. For more information, view the college catalog.
3. Secondary Certification, (7 - 12), in the areas of biology, chemistry, English, mathematics, physics and social studies (history)
4. Specialty Certification, (K -12), in the areas of art education, environmental education, French, German and Spanish.
In addition, students can add special education PreK-8 or 7-12 to their primary certification area, this is called “dual certification.”
It is important for students to check with the Education Department as soon as possible (ideally during the freshman year) in order to follow the required procedures for successful completion of the certification process and to subsequently maintain regular contact with the Education Department.
* View the college catalog for further requirements.
Resources
For more information, contact Professor James Longo.
