Educational Studies

Thayer School of Education

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The Educational Studies major is non-licensure interdisciplinary major with an emphasis on educational foundations and liberal arts. It offers students an opportunity to pursue interests and careers related to education, but not necessarily K-12 teaching. Students have the option to take interdisciplinary coursework related to one of several concentrations (Humanities, Language and Literacy, Mathematics and Science).

Students who earn this non-licensure degree will have the option of obtaining licensure post-baccalaureate through a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree or alternative process, working with students in a setting that does not require teacher licensure (e.g., private or religious schools, non-profit organizations, educational support services), or pursuing graduate work in a non-teaching field.

Students may switch to a licensure program provided they have met all requirements for admission to Teacher Education prior to enrolling in ED 306—Curriculum and Instruction. Students in licensure programs (Elementary Education, Middle Grades Education, Secondary Education, or K-12 programs) may change to Educational Studies at any point.

Major Requirements

The major requires a minimum of 125 semester hours and includes 51-54 credits in the University Core Curriculum, 24 credits in the Professional Core, and 47-50 credits in Specialty Studies.

Educational Studies - Health and Physical Activity Four Year Plan

The Four Year Academic Plans are standard templates for how a degree can be completed in eight (8) consecutive Fall & Spring semesters. There is varying flexibility in the exact course sequence depending upon individual student circumstances, major curriculum and course availability. Students should consult with their Faculty Advisor for course sequencing, degree planning and other considerations. Students are ultimately responsible for their degree planning.