Exploring Educational Studies Programs at Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a variety of educational studies programs designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in the field of education. These programs cater to a wide range of aspirations, from those seeking initial teacher licensure to those looking to advance their careers in educational leadership or explore alternative learning environments. GCU's commitment to quality education is reflected in its accreditation and its focus on integrating Christian values and ethical considerations into the curriculum.

Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies (Non-Licensure)

GCU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies (Does Not Lead to Teacher Licensure) program. This undergraduate degree program is designed to provide you with instructional knowledge and skills intended to be applied outside of traditional classroom settings. It provides an understanding of techniques for teaching students within a variety of group sizes, ages and learning abilities, including children with special needs, adolescents, and early learners. Other topics likely to be addressed in this Grand Canyon University program include educational laws, literacy development, classroom technologies, and professional ethics.

This program requires you to complete a total of 120 credit hours. Upon earning this Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies from Grand Canyon University, you could pursue responsibilities developing programs on a variety of topics and instructing students outside of school settings. Opportunities could be found with nonprofit organizations, child care facilities, parks and recreation departments, children's museums, or corporations. The Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies (Does Not Lead to Teacher Licensure) program could be the starting point for more studies at the graduate level. You might opt to continue your training in education or a related field of study.

Core Areas of Study

In this program, educational studies majors are expected to develop a firm grasp on the following core areas to develop a well-rounded perspective on teaching practices in alternative learning environments:

Educational psychology
Early childhood and adolescent literacy
Diversity in the classroom
Instructional technology
Communications
Classroom management
Leadership planning
Legal compliance

At the end of the program, you will complete a practicum/field experience in a nontraditional school setting, during which you have opportunities to gain practical, hands-on knowledge of how to integrate ethical values and servant leadership into the learning environment.

Career Opportunities

This BS in Educational Studies is a multidisciplinary program with the goal of preparing you to pursue a variety of careers across a diverse range of settings. With competencies in educational studies, you may choose to pursue a job in any of these settings:

Nontraditional schools
Nonprofit organizations
Daycares
Early childhood education centers
Social service agencies
Public or private community organizations

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education (Dual Licensure)

Empowering elementary and K-12 special ed learners, the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education at Grand Canyon University is a dual degree program that leads to licensure. The program includes coursework designed to prepare future educators to teach in elementary settings, as well as coursework that is required of teachers working with mild to moderate exceptionalities in the K-12 setting. This program is comprised of both pedagogical knowledge and specialized education content. Examine best practices in working with K-12 students with mild to moderate disabilities, including the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to accommodate students’ various learning, behavioral and social needs.

Key Concepts in the Dual Teaching Program

Both elementary and inclusive education teachers need to be fully equipped with pedagogical knowledge and instructional techniques to support their students. This dual program teaches critical concepts, such as:

Classroom and lesson planning best practices
Specialized instruction for diverse students
Classroom modifications and accommodations for students with exceptionalities
Advocating for students’ individual needs

Elementary students and students with exceptionalities deserve teachers with excellent pedagogical backgrounds to teach and advocate for them. Faculty teach specialized education courses in the areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities and other physical and cognitive impairments.

Elementary and Inclusive Education Coursework

You will complete a full-time, 16-week student teaching component at the end of this degree program. The first eight weeks of student teaching take place in a general education setting. The second eight weeks are completed in an inclusion classroom, resource room or self-contained classroom, serving students with mild to moderate exceptionalities. You will complete your special ed student teaching experience under the supervision of a certified special educator.

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Upon graduation, you may qualify for a teaching certificate. Additional testing, practicum hours or experience may be required to attain elementary or specialized education teaching licensure. As a future educator in this bachelor’s degree program, you will be taught: Many educators find elementary and adaptive education to be a calling that allows them to serve their community and nurture the next generation. Upon graduation, you may decide to pursue work as a pre-K-12 special education teacher or a special education teaching assistant. Each state has different requirements, so be sure to check with the state department of education in the state where you plan to teach to ensure you meet all licensure requirements.

Employment Opportunities

By earning a specialized education bachelor’s degree, you might apply for employment opportunities within the following settings:

Elementary classrooms
Child daycare facilities
Middle or high school classrooms designated for students with exceptionalities
Residential facilities
Hospitals
Homes of students with exceptionalities

Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership

A Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership degree from Grand Canyon University can prepare you for a future in educational administration to lead teachers and students at school sites. Entry to both the in-person and online degree program requires proof of teaching experience to ensure that GCU students in the program are continuing their professional development. This program is specifically tailored for individuals who already hold their teaching license and does not lead to licensure. Rather than serving as a pathway to obtaining a teaching license, this program is designed to provide further specialization and advanced training for licensed educators.

To help you in these areas, the in-person and online educational leadership courses focus on strategic leadership and management. You will be taught how to support teachers at school sites by helping grow their skills and promoting self-efficacy. By focusing on professional development and refinement, this program can offer licensed teachers the opportunity to stay current with educational trends and best practices, with the goal of benefiting your students and the education community as a whole.

Many professionals who pursue their master’s degree may also be juggling a full-time job or even raising a family. GCU understands your time is precious, which is why we offer the master’s in educational leadership program both online and on campus. This allows you the flexibility to attend school without facing major schedule changes.

Read also: Financial Aid at GCU

Leadership and Education Coursework

The core focus of GCU’s master’s in educational leadership degree program is to help you understand and apply the professional and ethical responsibilities of being a school leader. This MEd in leadership education degree offers a unique opportunity for educators who already have their teaching license or principal licensure. It is designed to empower you with a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge vital for effective leadership within educational settings, such as certain public and private schools where licensure may not be a mandatory requirement for school leaders.

By leveraging your expertise and acquired leadership abilities, you may be able to seek careers that contribute to the advancement of education and fostering the growth and development of students. This non-licensure program can open doors to diverse leadership opportunities in schools, allowing dedicated educators to continue making a difference in the lives of learners and the education community as a whole.

Potential Career Paths

Because of the leadership and administrative skills taught in this MEd in Educational Leadership program, graduates may go on to work as:

Preschool and daycare education and childcare administrator
Elementary and secondary education administrator
Postsecondary education administrator
Teaching assistant (secondary)

Accreditation

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Advanced Program for Continuing Professional Education) degree program at GCU is designed to meet high standards of quality and excellence. GCU proudly holds institutional accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a nationally recognized accrediting organization sanctioned by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This accreditation guarantees that GCU adheres to rigorous academic criteria and undergoes continual evaluation to ensure constant enhancement and effectiveness.

Additional Programs and Opportunities

GCU offers a variety of undergraduate and master’s teaching programs that can help you work toward finding the right fit for your needs. Equip yourself for a teaching career by specializing in subjects such as:

Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education

GCU also offers minor degrees for education majors, allowing students to further specialize their knowledge and skills.

GCU's Commitment

GCU has been preparing knowledgeable educators who continue to demonstrate a commitment to quality education since 1968. The College of Education aligns its curriculum with the standards set by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) as well as national accreditors and professional affiliates. These standards help us work toward producing credible, qualified teachers and professionals through our education and teaching degrees both online and on campus.

The College of Education inspires excellence in pedagogy and scholarship; advances reflective, innovative and collaborative teaching practices to maximize student learning and achievement; promotes servant leadership in educational communities; and engages a diverse and global community of learners with purpose and passion.

General Education at GCU

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

GCU has many scholarship opportunities available. These scholarships can help alleviate the financial load of tuition and expenses, allowing aspiring educators to focus on their studies and pursue their passion for teaching. GCU curriculum ensures that spiritual and ethical values are woven into the educational experience, fostering a holistic approach to learning. This initiative aims to nurture not only academic growth but also the development of character and values within students.

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