La Roche University

What you'll study

This bachelor’s programme covers foundations of education, child and adolescent development, curriculum design, instructional strategies, assessment and classroom management. Coursework balances theory and practice to prepare candidates for effective teaching in diverse classrooms.

• Foundations of Education: history, philosophy and ethics of schooling; education law and policy.
• Educational Psychology: learning theories, development across childhood and adolescence, motivation and behaviour management.
• Curriculum and Instruction: planning lessons, designing standards‑aligned units, differentiated instruction and inclusive practice.
• Literacy and Numeracy Methods: approaches to teaching reading, writing and mathematics across age ranges.
• Special and Inclusive Education: identification and support strategies for learners with diverse needs; individualised planning and collaboration with specialists.
• Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment, using assessment data to inform teaching and intervention.
• Educational Technology: integrating digital tools and resources to enhance learning and engagement.
• Subject‑Specific Methods: pedagogical approaches for content areas relevant to the route (elementary or secondary specialism).
• Field Experience and Student Teaching: progressive placements in partner schools culminating in an extended practicum or student‑teaching placement under mentor supervision.

Students also engage in seminars on classroom diversity, family and community engagement, and professional ethics. The programme typically includes a capstone or practicum requirement to demonstrate readiness for employment or further certification.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent and present a strong academic record. Admissions normally consider the overall transcript, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining motivations for teaching.

• Completed secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent).
• Academic transcript demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study; some programmes expect satisfactory grades in core subjects such as English and mathematics.
• One or more references from teachers, employers or community supervisors.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose describing interest in education and experience working with children or young people.
• Successful completion of any required background checks, health clearance or immunisations necessary for school placements.

Candidates transferring from other institutions should provide college transcripts and may need to meet course prerequisites for methods and practicum courses. Prospective students preparing for state teacher certification should check specific licensure prerequisites for the state where they intend to work.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work in a range of education roles. Many complete the programme and move into classroom teaching positions at elementary or secondary levels, subject to meeting local certification requirements. Other common pathways include:

• Primary/elementary classroom teacher
• Secondary subject teacher (after completing required content and certification)
• Special educational needs support and inclusion roles
• Teaching assistant or paraprofessional positions
• Instructional coordinator, curriculum developer or educational technologist (often after additional experience or postgraduate study)
• Out‑of‑school learning roles such as youth programme leader, tutor or community education officer
• Progression to postgraduate study in education, educational leadership, school counselling or specialist areas

The programme’s classroom placements and school partnerships help students build professional networks and practical experience that support job search and career progression.

Why study at La Roche University

La Roche University offers a small university environment with a focus on personalised mentoring, close faculty contact and a values‑based approach to professional formation. Education students benefit from strong ties with local schools in the Pittsburgh region, enabling meaningful placements and partnerships for practicum experiences.

• Small class sizes: greater access to faculty and tailored feedback on professional practice.
• Experience‑based learning: progressive field experiences and a culminating student‑teaching placement.
• Support services: academic advising, career services and placement assistance geared to teacher preparation.
• Values and community engagement: opportunities for service learning and working with diverse communities aligned with the university’s mission.

Students who value a practicum‑centred curriculum in a close‑knit campus community will find La Roche’s undergraduate education programme well suited to developing the knowledge, skills and professional dispositions needed for a career in teaching and related education fields.