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University

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Bachelor of Science, Major in Teacher Education – Middle School: Grades 5-9

Middle School Education

Become an impactful educator of adolescents through our Middle School Education Degree.

Degree: Bachelor of Arts 

Delivery: Face-to-Face

Time Required: 4 years

Middle School Education Program:

Our Middle School education program will prepare you to teach in grades 5-9 in both public and private schools. Our experienced professors ensure our graduates are knowledgeable in both content and the art of teaching. Teacher Candidates begin clinical experience and onsite training their first semester on campus. The valuable time spent in local classrooms allow them to apply the knowledge and training they receive in our highly effective education courses. Graduates are employed immediately and continue to receive support from our faculty and staff after graduation. 

Admission to the Teacher Education Program

  1. Be admitted to Kentucky Christian University (Apply Here)
  2. Meet the following Teacher Education Program Requirements
    • Cumulative GPA 2.75
    • Meet minimum required scores on KSE Key Assessments
    • 200 Clinical Hours
    • Meet Dispositional Interview Requirements
    • Receive required scores on the Core Academic Skills or Educators of ACT Requirements
      • ACT Composite: 22 or ACT: Math 19  and Reading20  and English 18
      • Case Scores: Reading 150, Writing 158 and Math 144 w/ a GPA 3.0
    • Praxis Content and Pedagogical Exams

Required Course Listing

Total Program Hours:

College 101 or Intro to KCU
Composition I or ENG 100
(Minimum grade “C”)
Composition II
English 102 builds on skills learned in English 101 by further leading students to analyze and write critically about any variety of texts, including literature, and to apply research skills toward the production of a research paper. (Prerequisite: a grade of C or higher in ENG 101.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Fundamentals of Speech
This course, accompanied by a lab, equips students with the fundamentals of skillful oral delivery. Students learn to prepare and present short informative and persuasive speeches. The selection and organization of material, methods of securing interest and attention, and elements of delivery are emphasized. Offered every semester. (Minimum grade “C”)
History Elective
Humanities Elective: ENG 213, 223, 233 or 302*
ENG 213, 223, 233 or 302*
Introduction to New Testament
An introduction to the New Testament, including a survey of key tools and techniques for further study of the NT. (Prerequisite: BOT 110.) Required during the second semester of enrollment at KCU.
Introduction to Old Testament
An introduction to the Old Testament, including a survey of key tools and techniques for further study of the OT.
Math Elective
Science: Human Biology or Science and Society
Social Science: ECO 311/312, HCP 101, or HSO 201
ECO 311/312, HCP 101, or HSO 201
Acts
A study of the Book of Acts in the context of its historical and cultural framework. (Prerequisites: BOT 110 and BNT 110.)
BNT, BOT, BTH, CML, CMM, CMP, CMY, or IST Elective
BNT, BOT, BTH, CML, CMM, CMP, CMY, or IST Elective
Christ and Culture
This is a capstone course that will pull together learning from previous courses in Bible, theology, philosophy, and literature. It will explore the relationship of worldview and culture formation, noting how other worldviews stand in comparison/contrast/tension with the Christian worldview. (Prerequisites: BOT 110 and BNT 110.)
Christian Heritage
An introduction to the basics of the Christian faith, its history, and its doctrine. (Prerequisites: BOT 110 and BNT 110.)
Introduction to New Testament
An introduction to the New Testament, including a survey of key tools and techniques for further study of the NT. (Prerequisite: BOT 110.) Required during the second semester of enrollment at KCU.
Introduction to Old Testament
An introduction to the Old Testament, including a survey of key tools and techniques for further study of the OT.
Behavior Management
Techniques of behavioral management of exceptional students in special education settings. Applied behavior analysis and interventions are discussed with research based implementary guides (Offered Spring Even Semesters)
Classroom Management
This course is designed to introduce the student to strategies for effectively planning classroom activities, managing various types of classroom behaviors, and developing instructional techniques for guiding students’ learning. Activities and readings will emphasize the relationship between classroom environment and student behavior. Special speakers will give students real classroom techniques. Offered every spring. (Prerequisite: EDF 214.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Developmental Psychology
The study of life span human development, with special concern for the genetic and environmental factors which influence the mental, emotional, and moral development of a person. Each of the following stages of lifespan development are included in this study: prenatal development and birth, infancy, early childhood, middle and late childhood, adolescence, early adulthood, middle adulthood, late adulthood, and death and dying. (Minimum grade “C”)
Diversity in the Classroom
This course deals with different areas of diversity in the classroom that may hinder the student’s social and educational development. These areas of diversity include ESL/ELL, socio-economic, and cognitive ability. The goal of this course is to provide future teachers with a thorough understanding of the concept of culture and cultural diversity, and how this influences the educational setting. Students will be able to create a positive classroom environment for a diverse class that applies student-centered approaches, supports high student achievement, develops motivation, and encourages critical thinking. (Minimum grade “C”)
Educational Technology
This course introduces students to technology and media available for use in educational settings. The course provides opportunities for analysis, understanding suitable material usage, and development of productions skills for a variety of media formats. Students will develop an understanding of how media and technology serve purposes in the education of students. Offered every fall. (Minimum grade “C”)
Exceptional Children
This course surveys the characteristics and the social, emotional, and educational adjustment of individuals with special needs. The course reviews legislation and current trends, with an emphasis on integration and full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in educational settings and in the community. It introduces principles of instruction and the development of strategies for the generation of Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) AND Gifted Students Service Plans (GSSPs). It includes a limited practicum experience in a special education setting. Offered every spring. (Corequisite: EDF 224.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Introduction to Education
This course introduces students to the broad field of education as well as Kentucky Christian University’s Teacher Education model, The Teacher: Empowered to Empower, and dispositions needed for success as a teacher. Transfer from another college or university will be with permission from the Keeran School of Education. Offered every semester. (Minimum grade “C”)
Junior Practicum
This course provides pre-service teachers with practical experience in instructional and classroom management strategies in the secondary school setting. The practicum and the workshop/seminars held on campus are designed to extend individual knowledge and skills beyond the earlier role as observer and aid in preparation for student teaching. Junior Practicum students are assigned placements in local secondary schools by the Coordinator of Clinical and Field Experiences. Hours of classroom participation are required for Junior Practicum I. Participation hours in required diversity field trips can count toward hours required for this practicum. Offered every fall. (Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and successful completion of EDF 223 and EDF 224. Corequisite: EDF 320.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Learning Theories & Assessment
This course examines classical and current educational theories that impact instruction from a research-based approach. Authentic assessments in the P-12 curriculum are studied and developed along with Keeran School of Education lesson plans. Students will develop an understanding of how to create assessments that both inform instruction and evaluate student knowledge. Offered every spring. (Corequisite EDF 210) (Minimum grade “C”)
Literacy Across the Content
The first part of a two-semester course sequence examines all aspects of teaching and learning in the American high school. The course examines curriculum, instructional design and assessment, the teaching-learning process and literacy (reading, writing, speaking and listening) as they pertain to the secondary student and school. It also addresses the importance of reflection and refinement in the teaching-learning process, professional development, and leadership in the role of the secondary teacher. Students implement the strategies they learn in the class through field experiences in the high school setting. Offered every fall. (Prerequisites: Admission to the teacher education program and successful completion of EDF 223 and EDF 224. Corequisite: EDF 323.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Sophomore Practicum
All teacher education majors will complete hours of observation in school classrooms during the fall semester of their sophomore year. These observations will be completed in a local field placement assigned by the Coordinator of Clinical and Field Experience or during a required diversity field trip conducted by the Keeran School of Education. Students enrolled in this course are also required to attend on-campus class sessions related to teaching and learning and the development of an application notebook. Offered every fall. (Corequisite: EDF 214.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Student Teaching
Supervised student teaching in a public school for a minimum of fourteen weeks will provide a variety of experiences to prepare pre-service teachers for their role in the school and the community. Included will be involvement with young people in the learning process, experiences with records necessary in the overall management of a classroom, and contact with other teaching professionals. Seminars will be offered on campus addressing the specific needs of beginning teachers. (Prerequisite: Admissions to teacher education program and completions of all requirements for student teaching). (Minimum grade “C”)
Additional Course Notes

Concentrations:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies

Students wishing to major in middle school education have two options with differing requirements:

  1. Recommended Option: Select two subject areas of concentration: The required core courses and only the classes listed outside of the boxed areas of the two subject areas of
    concentration must be completed.
  2. One specialized subject area: The required core courses and ALL courses and electives listed below the single concentration area must be completed.
Required General Education core based on area of concentration.
British Literature
This course introduces masterpieces of literature written in English by writers from the British Isles. Through close reading of selected celebrated texts, students will broaden their reading experience while gaining depth and insight into specific texts which have influenced English-speaking peoples around the globe. (Minimum grade “C”)
Children’s Literature
A survey of children’s literature from its beginning to the present time, including all types of literature except textbooks. Included will be criteria for evaluating, selecting, and presenting materials, which are applicable to the interests, needs, and abilities of children in the elementary grades. Emphasis is on eliciting responses from children based on specific trade books, using literature across the curriculum, and using literature as an additional or alternative reading an approach to increase literacy skills. Offered every fall. (Corequisite: ELE 351 or professor permission.) (Minimum grade “C”)
General Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
Calculus I
Functions, limits and continuity are taught along with differentiation, integration, and their applications. (Prerequisite: MAT 231 or permission of the instructor.)
College Algebra*
Provides a study of the concepts of algebra needed for further work in college mathematics. Includes but is not limited to: operations with polynomials, simplifying rational expressions, working with linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic equations, as well as systems of equations. (Prerequisite: two years of high school algebra.)
General Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
Introduction to Statistics
This course is not part of the math secondary teacher education major. An introduction to quantitative methods in social science research. Topics include probability, descriptive statistics, and parametric and non-parametric inferential statistics. (Prerequisite: MAT 213, 220, 231, or instructor consent. Same as HCP 222, BUS 292. Offered Every Semester)
Math for Teachers I
Designed for early elementary and middle grade teacher education majors to provide a working knowledge of geometric and arithmetic sequences, operations with whole numbers, rational numbers, real numbers, the concept of equations, number theory, and problem solving. Offered every fall. (Prerequisite: 17 or above on the math sub-test of the ACT.) (Minimum grade “C”)
Math for Teachers II
A continuation of EDF 241. Includes an introduction to probability and statistics, geometry, and problem solving. Offered every spring. (Minimum grade “C”)
Math Methods
A study of the various techniques for teaching mathematical concepts to children in the middle grades. An emphasis is placed on practical approaches based on research and learning theory. The development of concepts is built around hands-on activities that allow children to go beyond specific information, to discover relationships and generalities, and to solve problems. Offered every fall. (Prerequisite: admission to teacher education program.)
Pre-Calculus
This course includes operations with polynomials, simplifying rational expressions, solving linear and quadratic equations, solving systems of equations, working with trigonometric functions, using trigonometric identities.
Problem Solving for Teachers
Includes the modeling of “real life” situations and their solutions, using individual and small group work and various branches of mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus). (Prerequisite: MAT 321.)
General Chemistry I and CHE 213 Lab
This course is a study of the basic principles of matter, including stoichiometry, atomic theory, bonding theories, gas laws, and acid/base theory. Laboratory experiments will emphasize lecture concepts and be an integral part of the course. The course requires three hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Offered every fall. (Prerequisite: Recommend 1 year of high school algebra.)
General Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
General Physics and PHY 303 Lab
The introduction of a two-semester survey of classical and modern physics, focusing on the motion of solids and fluids as governed by Newton’s Law, the conservation laws of energy, momentum, and angular momentum. Other topics include mechanics of solids and fluids, heat, wave motion, electricity, magnetism and modern physics. The course requires two hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Offered every fall. (Prerequisite: MAT 221 or higher.)
Human Biology Lab
Laboratory exercises to reinforce basic concepts of human biology through hands-on activities. Designed for students majoring in teacher education and others desiring lab experience. Offered every spring.
Human Biology*
This course applies biological principles to practical human concerns enabling students to understand their bodies and their environment. Emphasis is placed on human anatomy, physiology, genetics, diseases, and the aging process. Meets a life-science requirement in most programs. Offered every spring.
Intro to Earth Science and PHY 103 Lab
Emphasizes concepts and theories necessary for understanding the physical and dynamic processes of Earth. Includes classic physical geology meteorology, oceanography, ground water, soil formation, and biomes.
Intro to Physical Science and PHY 107 Lab
This course is an interdisciplinary study of chemistry, physics, astronomy, and earth science, with an emphasis on concepts, theories, and processes necessary for understanding the physical environment. Content includes basic concepts of matter, heat, light, mechanics, sound, electricity, magnetism, geology, meteorology, and the solar system. Offered every fall.
Priciples of Biology and BIO 110 Lab
A survey of biological science with an emphasis on basic concepts and principles necessary for understanding life and living things. Topics of study include cell biology, genetics, plant and animal diversity, ecology, and natural selection. Offered every fall.
Science Methods
A thorough examination of the scientific methods in teaching children basic science concepts. Included will be teaching strategies for the biological and physical sciences for children in the middle grades 5-9. Offered every spring. (Prerequisite: admission to teacher education program. Corequisite: EMS 313.)
Upper Level Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
American State and Local Government or American Civics
HIS 215 or HIS 220 (Minimum grade “C”)
Economics Elective*
(Minimum grade “C”)
General Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
Historical Methods
This course is the study and practice of the concepts and techniques of historical research; use of bibliographical guides; evaluation and interpretation of evidence; preparation of the research paper. Special emphasis will be placed upon how Christians should approach historical scholarship and methods.
Intro to Historical Geography
An examination of the importance of geography in historical studies. This course will examine the use of maps, demographics, climate, processes, human and environmental factors to interpret the past in World regions and North America. (Same as GEO 220. Prerequisite: His 1__.)
Social Studies Methods
Presents the scope and sequence of the skills and concepts of the social studies program applicable to the middle grades. The broad range of the social studies curriculum will be defined with emphasis on the need for student and teacher to relate to their world: past, present, and future. Offered every spring (Prerequisite: admission to teacher education program. Corequisite: EMS 315.)
U.S. History I
A survey course in United States history from the founding to 1877. Offered every fall.
U.S. History II
A continuation of HIS 111, from 1877 to the present. Offered every spring.
Upper Level Electives
(Minimum grade “C”)
World History I*
A survey of world history from the beginning of civilization to 1650. It includes an introduction to the origins and early development of individual civilizations. Stresses interdependency and interrelations among cultures, and compares social, political, and religious movements. Offered every fall.
World History II
A continuation of HIS 101 that surveys world history from 1650 to the present. Emphasis is placed on various nationalistic movements of the world, including the English, American, and French Revolutions; the rise of the new nations; scientific expansion; changes in religious sects; world conflicts; and status of the world at the present time. Offered every spring.

Required General Education core based on area of concentration.

Well Prepared

“Thank you so much, Dr. Brickey! I was well prepared, both educationally and most importantly, spiritually. I will forever remember this experience. I pray I can continue to make Yancey School of Nursing proud as I practice my career.”

Nephtalie Fleur, Class of 2022