Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies

A teacher reading to her students.

Empowering the next generation

Help shape the future and share your love of learning. Be the person who positively impacts a child's life forever.
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A teaching degree with a long-term advantage

You want to be a teacher so you can support your students and see them meet their highest potential. While you’re a student at Western, we want the same for you. The College of Education and Human Development's Department of Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies develops future dedicated educators like you by offering valuable experience-driven learning and networking experience in your chosen field through internships and student organizations. Our dedicated faculty and student service professionals will ensure you have the support you need to prosper—because teachers need support, too.

Department of Teaching
Learning and Educational Studies
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5276 USA
(269) 387-3465

Teaching degree programs with a mission

We're promoting equity and diversity in the teaching profession at the Department of Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies. We offer two undergraduate degree programs, two graduate degree programs and two graduate certificate programs. Upon graduation you will have the knowledge, experience, skills and a supportive network to be an agent of social change in your classroom, school and district.
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Diverse career outcomes

Students who have graduated from Western's program have gone on to build professional careers as:

  • Educational directors
  • Assistant principals
  • Teachers
  • Consultants
  • Analysts
  • Early intervention coordinators

The organizations they work for include:

  • Children's Trust Fund of Michigan
  • Kalamazoo Public Schools
  • Grand Rapids Public Schools
  • Baltimore County Public Schools
  • Nebraska Wesleyan University
  • Refugee Education Center
Students talking with their teacher in a small group table.

Undergraduate degrees

Our department offers two Bachelor of Science degrees to our undergraduate students: elementary education (early childhood) and elementary education (K–8).
Learn about undergraduate degrees
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Graduate degrees

In addition to graduate certificates, our department offers two master’s degrees to our graduate students: teaching as well as teaching, learning and educational studies.
Learn about graduate programs
student teacher in a classroom.

Urban Teacher Residency Program

Launched in summer 2021, the Urban Teacher Residency Program is a 12-month initiative that develops an affordable pathway for long-term substitute teachers and paraprofessionals to become certified teachers.
Read about the program

Resources that build your skills and confidence

student teacher in a classroom with students reading around the table.

 

At Western, our goal is to give our future teachers access to every resource available. Whether you're looking for a hands-on teaching experience through a carefully crafted, mentor-based internship; aiming to join a student organization for career development and community; or reaching out to one of our esteemed faculty members, we strive to support you so you can excel in your education and thrive in confidence.

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Meet the faculty