Program Overview
West Chester University’s Bachelor of Science (B.S.Ed.) in Education in Middle Grades Preparation is highly regarded for preparing qualified candidates for professional education certification in grades four through eight. We provide more than 100 candidates with rigorous and engaging coursework, a diverse set of learning opportunities, and on campus education-related activities and organizations. Students who are interested in teaching the seventh or eighth grade must choose a content area of concentration. At WCU, students have several choices including: English Language Arts, Math, Science, and/or Social Studies. At WCU, education field placements begin in your first semester and continue in various settings throughout all four years of studies, including both upper elementary classrooms and middle schools in public schools throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. Get Involved: Alpha Upsilon Alpha (the Literacy Honor Society) Student PSEA (nationally recognized chapter; more than 240 members on campus) (linkhttps://spseaofwcupa.wixsite.com/mysite) Kappa Delta Pi (International Education Honor Society)
Program Highlights
The Middle Grades Preparation program participates in a Professional Development School (PDS) relationship with the West Chester Area School District and a “Year-Long Option” with partner districts including West Chester Area School District, The School District of Philadelphia, Downingtown Area School District, Great Valley School District, Phoenixville Area School District, Marple-Newtown School District, and Haverford School District Both the PDS and the Year-Long Option provide candidates with the opportunity to spend more time in the same grade 4-8 classroom than the traditional fifteen weeks of student teaching. Candidates involved in either option co-plan and co-teach with their mentor teacher, and are fully involved in the school community working with students, school professionals, and members of the community. West Chester University also offers many study abroad options, including some programs specifically focused on education.
What can I do with this degree?
The Middle Grades Preparation program prepares teacher candidates to become classroom teachers in grades 4-8. Upon successful completion of our program, and successful completion of Pennsylvania’s Department of Education requirements, candidates apply for Pennsylvania certification for grades 4-8, the required credential to teach in grade 4-8 classrooms in Pennsylvania. This credential can be used to apply for teaching credentials in other states, pending any additional or special requirements.