Education with Teaching Certification in Grades 4-8 (B.S.) Social Studies Concentration

Program Overview

The Education with Grade 4-8 Teaching Certification program prepares students to teach all subjects in grades four through six and to specialize in one or two subject areas for grades seven and eight. Through the academic program, faculty advising, and extensive field experiences, students are broadly prepared for effective teaching in upper elementary and middle school grades. Thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities are developed in critical areas such as instructional planning and delivery, assessment, and classroom management. Particular attention also is given to subject matter preparation. Students in this program take the same core of courses. Additionally, they select one of nine subject tracks in which to concentrate. These tracks are:

Option I (12 credits in three subject areas and 30 credits in one of the following):

Option II: (12 credits in two subject areas and 21 in two of the following, one of which must be mathematics or science):

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Education program can:

1. Use a theoretical framework to articulate their philosophy of Education
2. Explain and/or apply core information, concepts and principles in their academic content area(s).
3. Identify, assess, and synthesize research in the field of Education, including evidence-based practices
4. Demonstrate proficiency in pedagogical and assessment skills in working with a diverse group of learners.
5. Identify personal options for employment, voluntary service, and/or graduate education in the field of education based on knowledge of the field and one’s own strengths and interests.
6. Articulate how faith connects to one’s specialized area of study and to potential career options in that area of study.

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

3-4 credits from the following:

Social Studies concentration (18)

A second, additional course in U.S. History:

Three credits from the following:

QuEST Requirements