Walden University

What you'll study

The programme combines core education theory, subject-specific instructional methods and extensive field experience. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Education — history, philosophy and policy contexts shaping contemporary schools.
• Educational Psychology — learning theories, child and adolescent development, motivation and classroom application.
• Curriculum and Instruction — planning lessons, designing coherent curricula and aligning instruction to standards.
• Classroom Management and Positive Behaviour Support — strategies to create inclusive, productive learning environments.
• Assessment and Data-Informed Instruction — formative and summative assessment, interpreting data to personalise learning.
• Subject-Specific Methods — approaches to teaching literacy, mathematics, science and social studies at primary and middle levels.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Education — culturally responsive pedagogy, working with multilingual learners and students with diverse needs.
• Educational Technology — integrating digital tools, online learning design and instructional technology best practice.
• Special Education Fundamentals — identification, differentiated instruction and collaboration for students with disabilities (availability may vary by track).
• Research Methods and Capstone — basic educational research literacy with a culminating project or practicum synthesis.
• Field Experiences and Student Teaching — supervised practicums in classroom settings that give hands-on experience; placements are coordinated in partnership with local schools.

Courses are typically delivered in an online format with scheduled practicum or student-teaching placements in local schools. Options to focus on particular age ranges or specialisms may be offered through concentrations or licensure tracks where applicable.

Entry requirements

Applicants generally need a secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent and official academic transcripts. Admission also considers prior college credit and transfer qualifications. Additional requirements for students seeking state teacher licensure often include:

• Meeting specific grade-point average or course prerequisites determined by the programme or state.
• Clearances for background checks, and health documentation such as immunisation records, where required for onsite placements.
• Demonstration of communication competency and readiness for professional practice; some applicants may be asked for a personal statement or references.

Because certification and preparation requirements vary by state, prospective students should confirm licensure pathways and any extra documentation with Walden's admissions advisors and the state education agency for the state where they intend to teach.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Bachelor’s in Education commonly move into roles such as:

• Classroom teacher at primary or middle school levels (licensure required in most jurisdictions).
• Special education teacher or instructional support provider, where specific endorsements are completed.
• Educational paraprofessional, teaching assistant or early childhood educator in preschools and community programmes.
• Instructional coordinator, curriculum specialist or education programme developer (often after additional experience or graduate study).
• Education technology specialist, tutor, or classroom interventionist.
• Pathways into graduate study (Master’s in Education, special education, educational leadership) for roles in administration, school psychology or higher-level curriculum development.

Employment outcomes depend on licensure, subject specialism, level of experience and regional demand for teachers. Many graduates begin in classroom roles and then specialise or move into leadership with further qualifications.

Why study at Walden University

Walden offers a flexible, primarily online delivery model designed for working adults and career changers, with coursework grounded in practitioner-focused research and social change. The university is regionally accredited, and its teacher preparation programmes include supervised field experiences organised with local schools to provide practical classroom exposure.

Students benefit from faculty who combine academic and classroom experience, online student support services, and resources to help with practicum placement and career planning. Prospective students should work with Walden advisors to confirm how programme completion aligns with state licensure requirements in the location where they plan to teach.