Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This programme blends content knowledge, subject‑specific pedagogy and professional development coursework to prepare candidates for teaching at designated grade ranges and subject areas. You will study foundational topics such as educational psychology, methods of teaching for your chosen level or subject, classroom management, assessment and differentiation, and inclusive practices for diverse learners.

• Core education courses: learning theory, curriculum design, classroom management, assessment and formative feedback.
• Methods and content courses: subject‑specific pedagogy (for example elementary methods, secondary content methods in English, maths, science or social studies) and instruction tailored to the age range you plan to teach.
• Special populations and inclusion: instruction in special education fundamentals, differentiated instruction, English language learner strategies and culturally responsive teaching.
• Professional development and leadership: courses on reflective practice, teacher professional growth, collaboration with colleagues and action research methods.
• Practicum and student teaching: progressive field placements in partner schools culminating in a supervised full‑time student teaching assignment and portfolio development.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the bachelor’s programme typically need a secondary‑school completion certificate or equivalent and an academic transcript. Admission to the teacher education sequence may require a minimum cumulative record, a personal statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and an interview or screening with the education faculty.

Because the programme leads to licence‑eligible preparation, candidates must meet professional requirements such as background checks, health clearances (for example TB screening) and any state testing or certification prerequisites that apply to your chosen subject or grade level. Applicants with previous college credit or transfer coursework should provide official transcripts for evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to pursue state teacher licensure and teach in public, private or parochial schools at the levels and in the subjects covered by their programme of study. Typical first roles include classroom teacher in elementary or secondary settings, special education co‑teacher or intervention specialist, and English language development instructor.

• With additional experience or postgraduate study, alumni move into roles such as instructional coach, curriculum specialist, education consultant, or school administrator.
• Some graduates apply their professional development expertise in non‑classroom settings such as educational nonprofits, professional learning organisations, teacher mentoring programmes and curriculum publishing.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a teacher education programme grounded in a liberal arts and professional formation tradition, with small class sizes and close mentoring from faculty who have classroom experience. The university maintains partnerships with local and regional schools, providing diverse field placement opportunities in urban, suburban and rural settings to build practical skills.

The programme emphasises reflective practice, ethical leadership and ongoing professional development so graduates are prepared not only to enter the classroom but to grow as educators throughout their careers. Campus resources such as the education clinic, library collections and career services support practicum learning, licensure guidance and job placement.