Whether you’re passionate about history, science, art or math, one of the best ways to share your enthusiasm for the subject and your love of learning is by becoming a teacher. In Western’s accelerated degree program, you can gain the credentials and knowledge you’ll need to launch a successful career in education.
Program Overview
Expedite your education and your career, so you can start making a difference.
The 3+2 Secondary or K-12 Licensure program allows you to earn a bachelor’s degree in your major with an emphasis in Secondary or K-12 Licensure and a Master of Arts in Education in five years. This program provides a combination of foundational knowledge and hands-on experience to ensure that you are well-prepared to thrive professionally in any academic setting.
You can choose an undergraduate program in one of 11 majors (Art, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, Exercise Sport Science [Physical Education], Geology, History, Mathematics, Politics & Government, or Spanish) and pair it with a Masters of Arts in Education emphasizing in Teacher Leadership.
The Teacher Leadership degree program will help you become an excellent educator who is recognized for your leadership skills and capacity. You’ll gain the skills to facilitate, advocate and advance school reform and the overall improvement of student learning.
In addition to a teaching license and M.A. in Education with an emphasis area, you may also choose one of several added endorsements to supplement your degree. These endorsements will enhance your teaching skills and prepare you to take on a variety of classroom environments both during your residency and after graduation.
Enhance your own education and earn professional credit at Western’s Summer Teacher Institute.
A well-rounded education
This program provides a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice to develop educators who are well-prepared to take on a variety of academic environments after their time at Western.
Program Requirements
At Western, course rotations are crafted to encompass a variety of subject fields for a comprehensive education and versatile degree. For required courses and degree plans, visit the official University Catalog. Below is a general overview of courses at Western Colorado University related to this area of study.
Program Requirements
Students seeking licensure in the 3+2 Secondary and K-12 Licensure Program must complete the requirements of their major, all other University requirements, and the Secondary/K-12 Licensure requirements set forth by the Colorado Department of Education. For specific major requirements and degree plans, please see the appropriate discipline's page.
Available majors that can lead to teacher licensure:
Art, English, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, Exercise and Sports Science, Geology, History, Mathematics, Music, Politics and Government, Spanish
The Secondary and K-12 Licensure Program requires 30 credits of Education coursework:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 000 | Education Gateway Course | 0 |
| EDUC 340 | Application of Pedagogy and Practice | 3 |
| Total Credits | 3 | |
Secondary and K-12 Licensure Coursework to be taken year 4 of 3+ 2 Secondary and K-12 Education MAED Program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 403 | Instruction and Assessment in Content Area | 3 |
| EDUC 405 | Data-driven Instructional Practices | 3 |
| EDUC 604 | Learning Environments | 3 |
| EDUC 606 | Reading and Writing in the Content Area | 3 |
| EDUC 607 | Rethinking Learning in the 21st Century | 3 |
| EDUC 624 | Managing to Differentiate | 3 |
| EDUC 629 | Inclusion and English Learners | 3 |
| Six credits of the following: | 6 | |
| One class taken twice: | ||
EDUC 609 | Secondary Student Teaching | |
or EDUC 610 | K-12 Student Teaching | |
| Total Credits | 27 | |
The residency for Secondary or K-12 Licensure must be completed in a classroom that corresponds with the grade level and endorsement area sought. Students are expected to work cooperatively 24 hours per week with qualified mentor teachers. During this year-long clinical residency, students are applying and extending the pedagogical knowledge they are learning in their education courses. The Secondary and K-12 licensure coursework and the post-licensure coursework are taught online
5th year Post-Licensure Coursework:
Once accepted to the 3+2 Secondary or K-12 Licensure MAED Program, students must declare their MA emphasis and the School of Graduate Studies will designate the student as a "MAED degree-seeking student." Students in the Elementary, Secondary, or K-12 Licensure 3+2 Program may choose an MA emphasis in K-12 Online Leadership, Teacher Leadership, Reading Leadership or endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education.
All Secondary and K-12 Licensure 3+2 students will be required to take 3-6 credits of 600 level education electives. The only exception is Master of Arts in Education with Endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education which has a pre-determined 22 credit course series.
Education Coursework to be taken year 5 of 3 + 2 Secondary K-12 MAED Program:
Master of Arts in Education with emphasis in K-12 Online Teacher Leadership
K-12 Online Teacher Leadership is defined as the work of an individual (an online-teacher leader) teaching online in a virtual school and/or in a blended K-12 learning environment (a) who knows federal and state policies related to online and blended teaching and learning; has advanced knowledge of the development, implementation, and evaluation of quality online teaching and instructional design and (b) who can work effectively with other online or blended instructional staff to meet the targeted learning needs of all students. The K-12 online teacher leader provides professional guidance and expertise to virtual or brick and mortar schools on effective curriculum, instruction, and assessment programs in relation to online and blended learning.
To earn the MA in Education with emphasis in K-12 Online Teacher Leadership, the candidate must successfully complete 43 graduate credits of education course work in conjunction with in-classroom/school practical experience. Successful completion of the K-12 Online Teacher Leadership emphasis will result in earning the MA degree.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 621 | Creating Effective Online & Blended Learning Environments | 3 |
| EDUC 622 | Using Data to Plan for Online & Blended Learning and Targeted Interventions | 3 |
| EDUC 623 | Designing and Delivering Effective Online & Blended Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| Total Credits | 16 | |
In addition to the courses listed above, all Secondary or K-12 Licensure 3+2 students with emphasis in K-12 Online Teacher Leadership will be required to take 6 credits of 600 level Education electives, for a total of 22 credits.
Master of Arts in Education with emphasis in Reading Leadership
Reading Leadership is defined as the work of an individual (a reading leader) situated in a classroom or a school or district-level position who has advanced knowledge of federal and state policies related to literacy; has deep understanding of the development, implementation, and evaluation of scientifically-based reading programs; and can work effectively with other instructional staff to meet the literacy needs of all students. The reading leader provides professional guidance and expertise to classroom teachers, school and/or district literacy curriculum, instruction, and assessment program leaders; and develops and conducts in-service programs related to literacy.
To earn the MA in Education with emphasis in Reading Leadership, the candidate must successfully complete 43 graduate credits of education course work in conjunction with in-classroom/school practical experience. Successful completion of the Reading Leadership emphasis will result in earning the MA degree. To be recommended for a Colorado Department of Education Reading Teacher or Reading Specialist endorsement, the candidate must also take one of the following: Reading Teacher Internship or Reading Specialist Internship
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 684 | Materials and Motivation for Reading | 2 |
| EDUC 685 | Assessing, Evaluating, and Instructing At-risk and Struggling Readers | 3 |
| EDUC 686 | Literacy Coaching and Mentoring | 2 |
| EDUC 687 | School-Wide Comprehensive Literacy Program Development | 2 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| Total Credits | 16 | |
Optional Coursework for Reading Teaching or Reading Specialist Endorsement:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 688 | Reading Teacher Internship | 3 |
| EDUC 689 | Reading Specialist Internship | 3 |
For candidates not pursuing the Reading Teacher or Reading Specialist endorsement, 6 credits of 600 level education electives must be completed, for a total of 22 credits.
Master of Arts in Education with emphasis in Teacher Leadership
Teacher Leadership is defined as the work of an individual (a teacher-leader) within a school who is regarded as an excellent educator; is well respected by peers; is recognized for his or her leadership capacity; holds a lifelong learning orientation; and has been identified to facilitate, advocate, and advance school reform and improvement of student learning. The work of a Teacher Leader is typically carried out through informal and formal venues and processes; for example, with teachers in their classrooms, district-level task forces, committee, and/or membership in district-level professional development projects. To earn the MA in Education with emphasis in Teacher Leadership, the candidate must successfully complete 43 graduate credits of education course work in conjunction with in-classroom/school practical experience. Successful completion of the Teacher Leadership emphasis will result in earning the MA degree.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 632 | Overview of Special Services | 3 |
| EDUC 669 | Formal and Informal Methods of Assessment | 3 |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 681 | Instructional Program Evaluation | 3 |
| EDUC 682 | Shaping School Culture | 3 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| Total Credits | 19 | |
In addition to the courses listed above, all Secondary or K-12 Licensure 3+2 students with emphasis in Teacher Leadership will be required to take 3 credits of 600 level Education electives, for a total of 22 credits.
*EDUC 697 may only be taken upon instructor approval. Students interested in EDUC 697 must consult with the graduate advisor prior to enrolling in this course.
Master of Arts in Education with Endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) teaching is defined as the work of an individual (a CLD Interventionist or CLD Teacher Leader) who serves as a liaison between various constituents accountable for meeting the needs of CLD learners in the school and community settings. This individual is aware of state, national and local cultural norms, legalities, and policies that impact student learning and the acquisition of English language proficiency. The CLD teacher has the ability to guide and support stakeholders associated with serving CLD learners to sustained high levels of productivity, collaboration, and achievement. To earn the 3+2 MA in Education with an endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, the candidate must successfully complete 43 graduate credits of education course work in conjunction with in-classroom/school practical experience. The candidate must be a licensed teacher and will be eligible to add a CLD endorsement at the conclusion of the following sequence of MA course work.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 614 | Inclusivity with Collaboration | 3 |
| EDUC 616 | Language Acquisition for Linguistically Diverse Students | 3 |
| EDUC 617 | Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency in the Content Area | 3 |
| EDUC 618 | Linguistically Diverse Student Teaching | 3 |
| EDUC 632 | Overview of Special Services | 3 |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| Total Credits | 22 | |
Careers
Take the first steps toward your dream career.
Career preparation is the primary focus of every academic program at Western. Our professors and Office of Career Services will help you identify your strengths, hone your skills, define your goals, and prepare for a fulfilling role in hundreds of professional fields after graduation.
The data is automatically collected by Lightcast, a firm that sources job market data. The statistics illustrate general trends in U.S. careers, but do not precisely represent every job and salary.
Scholarships
Western’s Scholarship Application portal allows you to search for, apply to and manage your scholarship opportunities. This platform houses over 300+ departmental and privately funded scholarship opportunities available to both new and returning students. Through the scholarship portal, students may identify scholarship opportunities based on academic program, campus involvement, academic standing, specific keywords and more. Students may click below to begin learning about what scholarship opportunities are available to them.
Please check individual scholarship opportunity start dates and deadlines as there are exceptions.
Find your scholarships!In 2019, the state of Colorado passed a bill that authorizes the Department of Higher Education to make payments on educational loans of teachers who are employed in a rural or hard-to-fill positions. The program will accept up to 100 applicants per years, and recipients will receive up to $5,000 per year for up to five years to help relieve their student loan debt. To learn more about this program, visit the Colorado Department of Higher Education website.
The Exceptional Resident Award is given to one undergraduate or graduate Education student, per year, who exhibit the following criteria:
- Shows respect for differences and a commitment to serving all students regardless of their race, ethnicity, culture, religion, language, cognitive ability, gender, or sexuality.
- Demonstrates a growth mindset in the face of challenges and responds constructively to feedback. Shows willingness to reflect upon practice.
- Goes above and beyond to builds strong relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and the local community. Is supportive and positive when interacting with others.
- Exhibits curiosity and is innovative in lesson design and delivery.
- Shows a willingness to try new things and to thoughtfully assess their effectiveness.
- Demonstrates leadership by taking initiative to be part of the school team. For example, shares strategies and ideas learned in Western courses with mentor and other colleagues in a constructive manner.
Award:
• Recognition at graduation with a cord and reimbursement of up to $500 for travel expenses to attend graduation at Western
• Certificate presented at the placement school by the resident’s regional coordinator and/or clinical coach
• Recognition on Western’s Education Department website
• Scholarship of up to three graduate credits to be used towards completion of a master’s degree at Western
Western’s Scholarship Application portal allows you to search for, apply to and manage your scholarship opportunities. This platform houses over 300+ departmental and privately funded scholarship opportunities available to both new and returning students. Through the scholarship portal, students may identify scholarship opportunities based on academic program, campus involvement, academic standing, specific keywords and more. Students may click below to begin learning about what scholarship opportunities are available to them.
Please check individual scholarship opportunity start dates and deadlines as there are exceptions.
Find your scholarships!Alumni Association Future Alumni Scholarship
The Alumni Association Scholarship is a one-time scholarship of $1,000 and is applicable for the student’s junior or senior year at Western.
Any child or grandchild of an alumni is eligible to receive the Future Alumni Scholarship.
- This is a one-time non-renewable scholarship of $1,000.
- Only one Future Alumni Scholarship will be awarded per academic year.
- GPA must be 3.2 or above (college).
Due date has been extended to April 30 for 2024. An Alumni selection committee, appointed by the Alumni Advisory Council, will review applicants and select awardee by June 1.
Alumni Legacy Scholarship
The Alumni Legacy Scholarship is a one-time non-renewable scholarship and is only applicable for the student’s first year at Western (incoming freshman or new transfer students are eligible).
Do you have a son or daughter looking at college? Have they considered attending Western? As an alumni, your son, daughter and/or grandchildren are eligible for certain benefits distributed through this scholarship, as follows:
- This is a one-time scholarship of $1,000.
- Nominee must be an incoming first-year student or new transfer.
- The cost of orientation is reduced by half (a $45 value).
- The admission application fee is waived (a $30 value).
- GPA must be 2.5 or above (high school or college of transfer).
The applicant must fill out the application form found below. Application forms are accepted year-round. If the applicant meets the GPA guidelines, the scholarship will be awarded.
Mountaineer Alumni Recommendation Scholarship
The Mountaineer Alumni Recommendation Scholarship is a one-time non-renewable scholarship and is only applicable for the student’s first year at Western. This scholarship is not available to midyear transfers or students beginning in the spring semester.
Are you an alumni or employee of Western and know a prospective (or incoming) student who would be a great fit at Western? A recommendation from alumni and employees can support any new student and provide them a $500 scholarship their first year. (Western employees may not recommend a spouse or dependent receiving tuition benefits).
- Any Western alumni/employee may nominate only one student per academic year to receive the $500 scholarship (distributed $250 per semester).
- The scholarship is good for the first year only and is non-renewable.
- The recommended student must be a full-time undergraduate student, attending Western for the first time.
The applicant must fill out the application form found here. The nominating alumni/employee must fill out the application form and submit the required documents by June 1. The recommended student must meet university admissions acceptance standards and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The Presidential Promise is guaranteed to students who have received a scholarship through the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) and/or GearUp—and are eligible for a Pell Grant.
For students who meet these criteria, Western will cover the cost of tuition and fees through the combination of federal, state and institutional aid. For more information on the Presidential Promise, visit our scholarships page.
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) or Central Plains (CP) tuition represents a substantial savings relative to normal, out-of-state tuition. Students eligible for the WUE or CP program will be charged 150% of Western’s total in-state tuition. For 2018-19, total in-state tuition was $8,934. WUE/CP tuition was $13,401. The WUE/CP discount is valued at $4,695.
For more information about the WUE and CP geography-based programs, visit Western’s Tuition Discount Programs Page.
Immediately upon acceptance at Western, every student is considered for a merit scholarship worth between $2,500-$4,500 per year for in-state students and $8,000-$10,000 for out-of-state students. The amount is based on the student’s GPA and ACT/SAT scores. Visit our Net Price Calculator at western.edu/cost to determine whether you qualify for a merit scholarship.
For more information about merit scholarships at Western, visit our scholarships page.
Get Involved
Expand your network and apply your knowledge.
There are so many ways that you can maximize your educational experience at Western. Take advantage of these opportunities to grow personally and professionally.
- Community Partnerships: Many classes involve working with children and teachers in the various schools around the Gunnison Valley.
- Future Educators of America: Students in this club engage in volunteer work and professional development opportunities along with other like-minded students.
- Residency Year: Students may choose to student teach in an elementary (K-6) classroom anywhere in the world.
Classroom experience
MA in Education students gain firsthand teaching experience in classroom environments—both locally and around the world.
News & Research
Additional Resources
Department Information
Education Department
Campus Location
Western Colorado University
Crawford Hall 101
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231
