Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundations of education with subject-specific methods and practicum experiences aligned to the grade band or teaching field you select. Core study areas include educational psychology, classroom management, curriculum and instruction, assessment and data-driven decision making, and diversity and inclusive pedagogy. You will take methods courses tailored to your certification area (for example, early childhood, middle grades, secondary content areas or special education), literacy and content-area reading strategies, and instructional technology for teaching and learning.

Practical components are a major part of the degree: you progress from supervised field experiences to longer clinical placements and culminate in a full-time, supervised student teaching semester in partnership with local K–12 schools. Coursework often includes units on family and community engagement, behaviour support, legal/ethical issues in education, and professional development strategies for teachers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or recognised equivalent and submit a completed undergraduate application with official transcripts. Admissions typically consider academic preparation, relevant experience and readiness for professional study. Some special-method tracks may require prerequisite coursework in a content area (for example, mathematics, science or English) or demonstration of subject competence.

Because the programme leads to classroom placements, admitted students must meet additional licensure-related requirements prior to practicum and student teaching, which commonly include a background check, necessary health or immunisation documentation, and any required certifications (such as first aid/CPR) as determined by partner school systems. Candidates should check the College of Education for specific certification pathway requirements and progression policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to pursue initial teacher certification and employment as classroom teachers at the early childhood, elementary, middle or secondary level depending on the chosen method and endorsement. Typical roles include classroom teacher, reading or literacy specialist (with further certification), special education teacher, and subject-specific teacher in areas such as mathematics, science, social studies or English.

With experience or additional graduate study, alumni often move into instructional coaching, curriculum development, professional development coordination, educational leadership and administration, or roles in non‑profit and education support organisations. The programme’s emphasis on practicum and school partnerships helps graduates establish networks with local districts and increases readiness for entry-level teaching positions.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern’s College of Education provides teacher preparation that combines campus coursework with extensive clinical experiences in partner school districts across the region. The programme emphasises practical classroom skills, reflective practice and evidence-based instructional strategies so that graduates are classroom-ready.

Students benefit from access to faculty with PK–12 experience, structured mentorship during clinical placements, and resources for professional development and certification advising. The university’s regional partnerships and network of practicum sites support a range of placement options and help students transition into the teaching workforce.