Widener University

What you'll study

The Bachelor’s in Education combines general education requirements with core professional courses and subject‑specific methods. Early coursework typically covers foundations of education, child and adolescent development, learning theory and classroom management. Core modules commonly include curriculum design and assessment, instructional technology, literacy development, special and inclusive education, multicultural education and behaviour management.

As you progress you take subject‑area methods courses tailored to the age range you plan to teach (for example, elementary methods, secondary content methods in subjects such as English, mathematics or science). Practical experience is a continuous focus: you will complete supervised field experiences in local schools, participate in practicum placements and culminate the programme with an extended student‑teaching placement under the mentorship of a certified teacher.

• Foundations of Education and Educational Psychology
• Child and Adolescent Development
• Classroom Management and Positive Behaviour Supports
• Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
• Literacy Methods and Reading Instruction
• Special Education and Inclusive Practice
• Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning
• Methods courses for specific grade bands or subject areas
• Supervised Fieldwork and Student Teaching

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit official transcripts. Admissions typically consider strength of academic record, relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience with young people, and a personal statement outlining motivation for teaching. Many candidates are also asked to provide one or two academic or professional references.

Programmes that lead to professional teacher certification require clearances and health documentation for school placements (such as criminal background checks and evidence of required immunisations or health screenings). Candidates should be prepared to meet state certification requirements, which usually include passing one or more professional competency or subject‑area examinations and completing required coursework and clinical practice hours.

Career prospects

Graduates are primarily prepared for roles as classroom teachers across early childhood, elementary and secondary schools, depending on their chosen track and subject specialism. Many graduates move directly into public and private K–12 schools and pursue state licensure to teach in their chosen grade range.

Other common career paths include:

• Special education teacher or inclusion specialist
• Literacy or reading specialist (with further certification)
• Instructional coach or curriculum developer
• Educational technology specialist
• School administrator or guidance and pupil support roles (often after further study/credentials)
• Roles in educational non‑profits, youth services and community education

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a programme that emphasises clinical experience and close faculty mentorship, helping students move quickly from theory to practice. Small class sizes and practicum placements in a wide range of urban and suburban partner schools provide repeated, supervised teaching opportunities and direct contact with diverse student populations.

The curriculum is designed to align with state certification expectations, and the university supports candidates through advising on licensure requirements, test preparation and placement logistics. For students seeking a profession that combines intellectual challenge with meaningful community impact, Widener’s education programme offers a practical, hands‑on route into teaching and allied careers in education.