Summary
The Industrial Technology Education major within the College of Education and Human Development prepares students to master the intersection of high-tech technical skills and modern instructional strategy. By blending hands-on lab experience with the art of teaching, graduates emerge as the vital link between complex industrial concepts and the next generation of savvy innovators.
Program Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology Education
The Industrial Technology Education major within the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, serves as a vital bridge between high-level technical expertise and modern pedagogical strategy. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that blends hands-on experience in areas like robotics, digital fabrication, and sustainable construction with the psychological and instructional foundations of effective teaching. This dual focus ensures that learners are not only technically proficient but also capable of designing and managing laboratory environments that prioritize safety, innovation, and inclusive learning.
Upon graduation, these individuals are uniquely positioned to address the growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of 21st-century industry. While many graduates find fulfilling careers as licensed educators in middle and secondary schools, others leverage their versatile skill sets to excel in corporate training, industrial management, or instructional design. By cultivating both technical mastery and the ability to inspire others, the program empowers its students to lead the next generation of innovators and shape the future of the global workforce
What you’ll learn
You will develop advanced technical proficiency in areas such as robotics, digital fabrication, and engineering design through immersive, hands-on laboratory experiences. The curriculum also builds a deep foundation in pedagogical theory and instructional strategy, ensuring you can translate complex industrial concepts into effective lessons for diverse learners. Finally, you will master the ability to manage safe, modern laboratory environments while learning to lead career and technical education programs that meet the evolving needs of the global workforce.
Where you’ll be after graduation
Graduates primarily find fulfilling careers as Industrial Technology Education teachers in middle and high schools across the country, where they are in consistent demand due to the national emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE). Beyond the traditional classroom, some graduates may also work as technical trainers for industrial manufacturing or construction firms developing specialized workforce programs, or as consultants specializing in curriculum development for vocational-technical centers and community colleges.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
Student quote
I loved the small cohorts that were available. This allowed me to form a connection with other education students.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
In an Industrial Technology Education program, you will gain hands-on experience through advanced technical labs while exploring pedagogical approaches for teaching engineering and technical concepts through coursework and practical application. A core component of the program involves extensive field experiences, where you will observe and assist in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classrooms across various levels. Throughout your studies, you will also develop vital teaching skills such as curriculum design for industrial subjects, creating engaging lesson plans for lab-based environments, and implementing effective classroom and shop management strategies specific to hands-on, safety-oriented education.
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Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
