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.
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.
Pride points
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100% of teaching, learning and education studies graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
2021-22 Career Outcomes Report
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91% of teaching, learning and education studies graduates working full time are satisfied with their job
2021-22 Career Outcomes Report
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99% of College of Education and Human Development undergraduates had one or more resume-worthy learning experiences
2021-22 Career Outcomes Report
Teaching degree programs with a mission
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Video of Education and Human Development at WMU
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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.
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
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Undergraduate degrees
Our department offers two Bachelor of Science degrees to our undergraduate students: elementary education (early childhood) and elementary education (K–8).
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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.
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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.
Resources that build your skills and confidence
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.
