University of Findlay

What you'll study

The programme combines general education courses with professional education coursework and supervised field experiences. Core topics include educational psychology, child and adolescent development, classroom management, assessment and measurement, and curriculum design. Subject‑specific methods cover literacy instruction, mathematics methods, science and social studies pedagogy (for elementary/middle candidates), and content methods for secondary subject areas.

• Foundational modules: Introduction to Education, Educational Psychology, Diversity and Inclusive Practices, Classroom Management.
• Curriculum and instruction: Curriculum Development, Instructional Strategies, Assessment and Data‑Driven Instruction, Differentiated Instruction.
• Subject methods: Literacy and Language Arts Methods, Mathematics Methods, Science Methods, Social Studies Methods, and methods courses tailored to secondary content areas.
• Specialist and support topics: Special Education Strategies, Behaviour Intervention, Technology in the Classroom, Early Childhood Foundations (where applicable).
• Practicum and student teaching: Multiple supervised field experiences in local schools leading to a full‑time culminating student teaching placement under mentor teacher supervision.

The programme emphasises experiential learning, reflective practice and classroom readiness. Students also complete coursework on professional ethics, family and community engagement, and assessment literacy to meet state licensure requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent. Typical entry requirements include a recognised high school diploma or A‑level equivalent and academic transcripts demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study. Admissions often consider GPA, a personal statement describing interest in teaching, and references. Applicants may also be asked to attend an interview or provide evidence of work with children (volunteering, tutoring or similar).

Candidates for teacher education programmes must meet standard clearance and health requirements prior to practicum placements, such as background checks, immunisation records and any regional preplacement health screenings. International applicants are usually required to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests if their prior education was not in English.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher licensure and entry into classroom roles in elementary, middle or secondary schools, depending on their chosen pathway and endorsements. Typical career destinations include:

• Primary/elementary teacher
• Middle or secondary school teacher in a chosen subject area
• Early childhood educator (for those in that stream)
• Special education teacher or specialist support roles
• Instructional coach, curriculum coordinator or learning support assistant (often after additional experience or postgraduate study)
• Education consultant, tutor or community education roles

Many graduates move into leadership, administration or specialist positions after gaining classroom experience and completing postgraduate qualifications or endorsement programmes.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a teacher education programme with close ties to regional schools, enabling sustained, supervised field experiences and strong placements for student teaching. Students benefit from small class sizes, accessible faculty mentors and a practical focus that emphasises classroom‑ready skills. The programme is designed to meet regional licensure requirements and to develop reflective practitioners who can work with diverse learners.

Facilities and support include education labs, technology resources for instruction, partnerships with local school districts, and career services that help with licensure advising and job placement. The combination of academic coursework, hands‑on practicum and faculty mentoring makes the programme suited to students seeking a direct route into classroom teaching and related education careers.