Academics

Education Studies, B.A.

The education studies major is designed for students who want to learn effective practices for teaching and working with children but do not seek a career in the classroom or do not need to pursue a state teacher certification. In this major you'll complete field experiences and participate in the cohort model with other students from the Whitworth School of Education. You will be prepared to serve in positions outside the public-school classroom and positioned to pursue graduate studies focused on working with children. Above all, you'll become a competent and compassionate educator prepared to help nurture children in diverse contexts in the U.S. and abroad.

Why major in education studies at Whitworth?

Gain valuable experience through field placements in a traditional classroom setting or alternative placement. Education studies students have teamed with school counselors, social workers, athletic program directors and more.
Build relationships with faculty. Advisors from the School of Education work alongside you to identify the best options for courses and field placements.
Build community. Courses include time at professors' homes and opportunities to attend local professional development conferences and workshops with faculty and classmates.
Become a culturally competent and compassionate educator. Opportunities to work with diverse groups through field placements are supported by courses focused on intercultural education, ELL instruction and teaching students with special needs.
Integrate your passions. The education studies major can easily be combined with another program of study, such as theology, psychology or athletic coaching, to prepare you for new career opportunities.
Become who you're meant to be.

Ask our faculty

Ask Lisa

llaurier@whitworth.edu

Professor Lisa Laurier is chair of the department and teaches elementary education and literacy.

Ask Keith

klambert@whitworth.edu

Associate Professor Keith Lambert teaches the U.S. diversity course as well as courses in secondary education.

Our education grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Students with an education studies major are prepared for opportunities to work with children outside of the traditional classroom. Students can pursue positions with the boys & girls clubs, YMCA programs or teaching in private schools. Combined with a second program of study, students have gone on to serve in youth ministry and coaching or pursue graduate work in psychology or social work.

Our recent education grads further their studies at institutions including:

Whitworth University
University of Washington
Washington State University
University of Oregon

Opportunities outside the classroom

Grow your skills and serve alongside your peers through the student-run Teachers of Tomorrow club.
Gain valuable experience through multiple required field placements.
Join the department's student advisory board and help communicate with fellow students and plan events for majors in the School of Education.

Pack your bags!

Students in this major complete a 3-credit field experience in a culturally diverse setting. Past placements have included rural Hawaii, urban Australia and a boarding school in New Mexico.

Programs

In addition to the education studies major, the Whitworth School of Education offers majors in elementary, secondary and special education, as well as specialty endorsement programs in 18 additional areas.

What related majors can I explore?

Next steps

Academic Information

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