Undergraduate Programs: Teacher Preparation

For those who are interested in a career in teaching, the School of Teaching and Curriculum Leadership offers a Bachelor of Science degree in several areas: elementary education (1-8); secondary education (6-12 in English, mathematics, social studies and science); and foreign language (P-12 in French, German, Spanish). Students who complete one of these program pass the Professional Education Portfolio, and pass the state certification examinations in their respective field meet the requirements for an Oklahoma initial teaching license. Students can also complete the secondary certification program while receiving a degree from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Undergraduate Programs of Interest to Future Teachers

Career Opportunities

There is an increasing demand for teachers both within Oklahoma and across the nation. Students who complete the degree requirements and pass the Professional Education Portfolio, and pass the state certivication examinations are recommended for Oklahoma teaching certificates in their disciplines. Those in Oklahoma receive an initial teaching license which is converted to a standard teaching certificate upon successful completion of the Oklahoma Residency Year Program. In addition, the bachelor's degree is accepted as preparation for graduate study. The College of Education at OSU offers a number of related master's and doctoral programs for those who wish to continue their studies.

Getting Experience

Every student in every program at the OSU College of Education (COE) gets a significant amount of hands-on experience before graduating. The Elementary Education program includes four field experiences providing opportuniies to work with and observe practicing classroom teachers. Students in the Secondary program spend considerable time in schools working with students during their two-year professional sequence beginning during the junior year. Successful completion of the twelve-week student teaching (internship) experience is required for graduation. Numerous opportunities to work with students in settings that vary from coaching sports to academic tutoring are available and encouraged.

Technology

Students learn how to integrate telecommunications and technology in their professional activities. They learn about making computer-assisted presentations, setting up web sites, preparing distance learning courses for the internet, and other activities that will stimulate their students. In addition to required technology courses, COE students experience computer-oriented units integrated in any classes. This brings technology into everyday use for future teachers.

Accreditation

In addition to state accreditation, the Professional Education Unit at Oklahoma State University is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), 2010 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20036, phone: (202) 466-7496. This accreditation includes the initial teacher preparation and advanced levels of professional education programs offered at he institution.

Student Organizations

Elementary Educators of Tomorrow provides activities and support. Student Education Association (SEA) provides an opportunity to interact with preservice teachers at all levels and to become affiliated with the National Education Association.

Getting the Job

The College is very successful in assisting students in finding jobs upon graduation. The OSU Career Services, the COE career consultant, the academic advisement staff, and faculty communicate regularly with school districts and companies seeking to hire OSU College of Education graduates. Oklahoma has reciprocal cerification agreements with 22 states, including Texas, Kansas, and Arkansas, allowing graduates to transition easily into teaching positions in neighboring states.

Scholarships

Last year more than $250,000 in scholarships were awarded students in the College of Education. In addition to endowed scholarships from state or national professional organizations. Fee waivers, college workstudy, federal grants and loans, and employment opportunities on campus are also available.

More Information

Watson Family Student Academic Success Center
106 Willard
Stillwater, OK 74078-4035
Phone: 405/744-6350

Last Updated Monday, November 20, 2006 4:37 PM