College of Education & Human Services

Middle Level Education, major

Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Level Education

Program of Study

Students combine a foundation of general studies with major courses and clinical experiences with children as they complete the Middle Level Education curriculum. A Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Middle Level Education leads to Illinois teacher licensure in grades 5th through 8th grade (self-contained classrooms). Candidates will choose to prepare for licensure in one of four areas of specialization. Science, Social Studies, Literacy or Math.

In addition to extensive coursework in the major, students begin observing middle school students early in the program and begin working with them as tutors and classroom aides in their junior year. During the comprehensive pre-student teaching field experience in the first semester of their senior year, students teach lessons in their area of specialization. The program culminates in a 12-week student teaching experience.

Faculty

The professors in the School of Education have a strong interest in helping students develop into skilled, competent and creative professionals. The faculty members hold advanced degrees from notable universities across the United States and are all experienced public school teachers. The faculty engage in a wide variety of scholarly activities that enhance their teaching. collaborating with local education agencies, participating in professional organizations, providing continuing education workshops, delivering professional conference presentations, publishing in education journals, authoring books and book chapters, and writing grants. Several have won teaching, technology and/or research awards.

Scholarships

A number of scholarships are available to academically talented students through the School of Education, the Center for Preparation of Education Professionals (CPEP) advising office, and the College of Education and Human Services.

Honors College

Entering students with high ACT or SAT scores and/or top placement in their high school graduating classes may be eligible for the Centennial Honors College. Transferring students with high GPAs may be eligible as well. General honors seminars in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences provide students with the opportunity to explore key academic issues with distinguished faculty members. To find out more, visit the Honors College website.

Transfer Students

Many students enroll in our programs after completing one or two years at a community college. Because our programs are very specific and courses are sequential, it is imperative that students who are considering transferring into our program contact the Center for the Preparation of Educational Professionals (CPEP) advising office early for assistance with selecting appropriate community college classes to ensure a smooth transition to WIU.

Student Activities

Students participate in professional groups such as the WIU Student Education Association, Council for Exceptional Children, Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education, and Society of Educators. Students are also involved in the prek-8 Science Update Conference, Assistive Technology Conference, WIU SEA Spring Conference, and KDP Fall Conference. Information on other organizations can be found at the Office of Student Activities.

Special Opportunities

The faculty in the department are committed to meeting the needs of individual students and communicate with them frequently. Middle Level Education majors complete coursework toward licensure in either Science, Social Studies, Literacy or Mathematics. The use of technology and techniques to accommodate the needs of individual children are emphasized throughout the program. Students apply the knowledge gained in the classroom as they complete a variety of field experiences and student teaching. The department's "Outstanding Pre-service Teaching Award" (OPTA) recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in their academic coursework and teaching experiences.

After College

Nationwide studies indicate teacher shortages in some areas and suggest that job opportunities are increasing. All graduates of the Middle Level Education program are qualified to teach in grades 5th through 8th departmentalized classrooms.

For more information, contact the Office of Teacher Education in Horrabin Hall 40 at (309) 298-2117 or the School of Education in Horrabin Hall 115 at (309) 298-1183 or education@wiu.edu.