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, or K-12 Online 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.
The K-12 Online Leadership degree path prepares you to provide professional guidance to virtual or brick and mortar schools on effective curriculum, instruction, and assessment programs in relation to online and blended 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 Elementary Licensure in the 3+2 Elementary Education Program (grades K-6) must complete the interdisciplinary requirements of the Elementary Education Major, all other University requirements, and the Elementary Licensure requirements set forth by the Colorado Department of Education.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education Core Content: | ||
| MATH 140 | College Algebra (GT-MA1) | 3 |
| MATH 221 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching I | 3 |
| MATH 222 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching II | 3 |
| MATH 323 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching III | 3 |
| SCI 110 | Habitable Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| SCI 111 | Nature of Science | 1 |
| SCI 120 | Living Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| SCI 210 | Dynamic Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| Two of the following: | 6 | |
ENG 150 | Introduction to Literature (GT-AH2) | |
ENG 161 | Introduction to Creative Writing | |
ENG 220 | Grammar and the English Language | |
ENG 250 | Critical Approaches to Literature | |
ENG 331 | Literature and Ethnicity: Studies in: | |
ENG 334 | Poetry: Studies in: | |
ENG 337 | Women Writers | |
ENG 352 | Children's Literature | |
| Four of the following (courses must include at least 3 disciplines): | 12 | |
ECON 201 | Macroeconomics (GT-SS1) | |
ECON 202 | Microeconomics | |
ECON 215 | Environmental Economics | |
GEOG 120 | Introduction to Human Geography (GT-SS2) | |
GEOG 250 | Geography of North America (GT-SS2) | |
GEOG 351 | Geography of Latin America and the Caribbean | |
HIST 101 | World History to 1500 (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 102 | World History Since 1500 (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 126 | U.S. History to 1865 (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 127 | U.S. History Since 1865 (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 200 | Historical Inquiry | |
HIST 260 | Latin American History (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 327 | Colorado History | |
HIST 349 | History of the Hispanic Southwest | |
POLS 117 | Introduction to Political Ideas (GT-SS1) | |
POLS 180 | Introduction to American Politics (GT-SS1) | |
POLS 250 | Politics of the Environment | |
| Total Credits | 43 | |
Specialization:
The Elementary Education Major requires students to take at least 18 credits in a specialized area of interest. The student may choose one of the following options:
Option 1 is to minor in any minor offered at Western Colorado University
Option 2 is to complete at least 18 credits in one of the Areas of Emphasis below:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Emphasis in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity | ||
| Select six of the following: | 18 | |
ART 325 | Women Artists | |
ART 422 | Native American Art of North America | |
ENG 151 | Borderlands: Representing Race, Class, Gender, and Sexuality | |
ENG 152 | Women and Literature | |
ENG 331 | Literature and Ethnicity: Studies in: | |
ENG 337 | Women Writers | |
GEOG 351 | Geography of Latin America and the Caribbean | |
HIST 254 | History of Africa (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 258 | History of Southeast Asia | |
HIST 260 | Latin American History (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 349 | History of the Hispanic Southwest | |
HIST 350 | Environmental History of the Borderlands | |
POLS 340 | Politics of Social Movements | |
POLS 350 | Human Rights | |
POLS 376 | American Political Thought | |
SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | |
SOC 168 | Social Problems | |
SOC 340 | Social Movements | |
SOC 380 | Social Inequalities | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Emphasis in Global Citizenship | ||
| Select six of the following: | 18 | |
ANTH 107 | Introduction to General Anthropology (GT-SS3) | |
ANTH 230 | Cultural Anthropology (with laboratory) | |
COM 216 | Dramatic Literature and Script Analysis | |
COM 274 | Public Relations Communication | |
COM 352 | Advanced Cinema Studies | |
ECON 303 | International Economics and Globalization | |
ENG 358 | Global Literatures: Studies In: Topic Variable | |
ENVS 100 | Introduction to Environment and Sustainability (GT-SS2) | |
ENVS 350 | U.S. and Western Environmental Politics | |
ENVS 430 | Watersheds of the World | |
GEOG 110 | World Regional Geography (GT-SS2) | |
GEOG 120 | Introduction to Human Geography (GT-SS2) | |
GEOG 351 | Geography of Latin America and the Caribbean | |
HIST 254 | History of Africa (GT-HI1) | |
HIST 258 | History of Southeast Asia | |
HIST 355 | African History: Topics | |
HIST 360 | Mexico | |
HIST 366 | Modern Latin America | |
POLS 260 | Introduction to World Politics (GT-SS1) | |
POLS 340 | Politics of Social Movements | |
POLS 355 | The Global South | |
POLS 360 | American Foreign Policy | |
SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | |
SOC 168 | Social Problems | |
SOC 340 | Social Movements | |
SOC 380 | Social Inequalities | |
SPAN 101 | Elementary Spanish I | |
SPAN 102 | Elementary Spanish II | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Emphasis in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) | ||
| Select six of the following: | 18 | |
ART 119 | Foundation Drawing I | |
ART 171 | Foundation Design: Two-Dimensional | |
ART 172 | Foundation Design: Three-Dimensional | |
BIOL 130 | Environmental Biology (GT-SC2) | |
COM 119 | Introduction to Film | |
COM 121 | Introduction to Theatre (GT-AH1) | |
COM 235 | Introduction to Acting | |
COM 264 | Introduction to Media Production I | |
COM 346 | Multimedia Communication | |
COM 390 | Media Production: Documentary | |
CS 190 | Computer Science I | |
EDUC 492 | INDEPENDENT STUDY | |
ENGR 131 | Introduction to Engineering Design | |
MATH 260 | Applied Linear Algebra | |
A 300-level MATH course | ||
PHYS 110 | Introductory Astronomy (GT-SC2) | |
PHYS 120 | Meteorology (GT-SC2) | |
PHYS 125 | Energy and the Environment (GT-SC2) | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
Elementary Licensure
The Elementary Licensure Program requires 40 credits of Education coursework and the Gateway course (including 6 credits of EDUC 619):
Pre-Residency Coursework:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 000 | Education Gateway Course | 0 |
| EDUC 102 | Learning & Teaching | 3 |
| EDUC 202 | Education and Schooling in the U.S. | 3 |
| EDUC 210 | Science Teaching Methods | 3 |
| EDUC 326 | Equity, Diversity and Social Justice in Education | 3 |
| EDUC 340 | Application of Pedagogy and Practice | 3 |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
4th year Residency Coursework:
Elementary Licensure Coursework to be taken year 4 of 3+2 Elementary Education MAED Program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 405 | Data-driven Instructional Practices | 3 |
| EDUC 408 | Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind | 3 |
| EDUC 600 | Foundations of Literacy Development | 3 |
| EDUC 601 | Methods and Strategies of Effective Reading Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 604 | Learning Environments | 3 |
| EDUC 613 | Methods and Strategies of Effective Mathematics Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 628 | Pedagogies for English Learners | 3 |
| Six credits of the following: | 6 | |
EDUC 619 | Elementary Student Teaching | |
| Total Credits | 27 | |
The residency for Elementary Licensure must be completed in a K-6 classroom, where 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 that they are learning in their Education courses. The Elementary Licensure coursework and the post-licensure coursework are taught online.
5th year Post-Licensure Coursework
Once accepted to the 3+2 Elementary Education MAED Program, students must declare their MA emphasis and the School of Graduate Studies will designate the student as an "MAED degree seeking student." Students in the Elementary Education 3+2 Program may choose an MA emphasis in K-12 Online Leadership, Teacher Leadership, or Reading Leadership.
All Elementary Education 3+2 students will be required to take 6 credits of 600 level education electives.
Elective Education Coursework to be taken year 5 of 3 + 2 Secondary and K-12 Education MAED Program:
Education with emphasis in K-12 Online Teacher Leadership, Master of Arts
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. Already licensed teachers have the option of adding an endorsement in one of the licensure areas above during their first year of study. 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 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, 3+2 candidates must take 6 credits of 600 level education electives.
Education with emphasis in Reading Leadership, Master of Arts
Reading Leadership is defined as the work of an individual (a reading-leader) situated in the classroom or in 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 programs; 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 Teacher 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.
Education with emphasis in Teacher Leadership, Master of Arts
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. Already licensed teachers have the option of adding an endorsement in the licensure areas listed above during their first year of study. Successful completion of the Teacher Leadership emphasis will result in earning the MA degree.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 681 | Instructional Program Development and Evaluation | 3 |
| EDUC 682 | Shaping School Culture | 3 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| Select three credits from the following: | 3 | |
EDUC 694 | School Law for Teachers | |
EDUC 695 | Resource Management in Education | |
EDUC 696 | Engaging External Stakeholders | |
| Total Credits | 16 | |
In addition to the courses listed above, 3+2 candidates must take 6 credits of 600 level education electives.
| Year One | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| EDUC 000 | Education Gateway Course | 0 |
| HWTR 100 | First Year Seminar | 1 |
| MATH 140 | College Algebra (GT-MA1) | 3 |
| SCI 110 | Habitable Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| ENG 102 | Academic Writing (GT-CO1) | 3 |
| EDUC 102 | Learning & Teaching | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Social Sciences | 3 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| SCI 120 | Living Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| COM 202 | Academic Writing and Inquiry (GT-CO2) | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Arts & Humanities | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Social Sciences | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Social Sciences | 3 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Year Two | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 221 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching I | 3 |
| EDUC 202 | Education and Schooling in the U.S. | 3 |
| SCI 111 | Nature of Science | 1 |
| Elective | ENG Elective | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Social Sciences | 3 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| MATH 222 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching II | 3 |
| SCI 210 | Dynamic Planet (with laboratory) | 4 |
| EDUC 210 | Science Teaching Methods | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Social Sciences | 3 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Year Three | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 323 | Foundations of Mathematics for Teaching III | 3 |
| EDUC 326 | Equity, Diversity and Social Justice in Education | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Arts & Humanities | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDUC 340 | Application of Pedagogy and Practice | 3 |
| Gen Ed | Arts & Humanities | 3 |
| Elective | ENG Elective | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective | 3 |
| Elective | Specialization Elective (upper divisionl) | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Year Four | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDUC 405 | Data-driven Instructional Practices | 3 |
| EDUC 428 | Teaching English Learners | 3 |
| EDUC 600 | Foundations of Literacy Development | 3 |
| EDUC 604 | Learning Environments | 3 |
| EDUC 619 | Elementary Student Teaching | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDUC 601 | Methods and Strategies of Effective Reading Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 613 | Methods and Strategies of Effective Mathematics Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 617 | Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency in the Content Area | 3 |
| EDUC 619 | Elementary Student Teaching | 3 |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 122 | |
Year 5
K-12 Online Teacher Leadership
| Year Five | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| EDUC 621 | Creating Effective Online Learning Environments | 3 |
| EDUC 622 | Using Data to Plan for Online & Blended Learning and Targeted Interventions | 3 |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| Credits | 10 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDUC 618 | Linguistically Diverse Student Teaching | 3 |
| EDUC 623 | Designing and Delivering Effective Online & Blended Instruction | 3 |
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| EDUC | 6XX Elective | 3 |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 22 | |
Reading Leadership
| Year Five | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 685 | Assessing, Evaluating, and Instructing At-risk and Struggling Readers | 3 |
| EDUC 687 | School-Wide Comprehensive Literacy Program Development | 2 |
| EDUC | 6XX Elective | 3 |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| EDUC 618 | Linguistically Diverse Student Teaching | 3 |
| EDUC 684 | Materials and Motivation for Reading | 2 |
| EDUC 686 | Literacy Coaching and Mentoring | 2 |
| Credits | 10 | |
| Total Credits | 22 | |
Teacher Leadership
| Year Five | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| EDUC 680 | Research and Critical Inquiry for Leaders | 4 |
| EDUC 681 | Instructional Program Development and Evaluation | 3 |
| EDUC 682 | Shaping School Culture | 3 |
| Credits | 10 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDUC 693 | Capstone | 3 |
| EDUC 618 | Linguistically Diverse Student Teaching | 3 |
| EDUC 696 | Engaging External Stakeholders | 3 |
| EDUC | 6XX Elective | 3 |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 22 | |
Careers
Career preparation starts your first year at Western and is the primary focus of every degree.
Visit Career Services in Library 120 or online to discover your interests, define your goals, and land the career of your dreams.
The data below is automatically collected by Burning Glass Technologies, a firm that sources job market data and provides analytics. The statistics illustrate general trends in U.S. careers, but do not precisely represent every job and salary.
Scholarships
Eligibility
- Must be Colorado resident
- Western student enrolled in at least 12 credits
- Exhibit and document a solid history of exemplary citizenship gauged by involvement in the community through civic engagement, service learning projects, etc.
- Prove commitment to teaching and academic excellence while continuing to hold the aforementioned values throughout the term of the scholarship
- Must certify financial need
Description
This scholarship is provided by Mrs. Roberta Barr established this scholarship to help potential teachers gain the education they need to be successful. Mrs. Barr was an educator, over several decades, and understood the importance of well-trained, dedicated teachers. As an alumnus of Western, she was committed to providing scholarships to students who have demonstrated capability, promise, community involvement, and financial need.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by: The Education Department
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Full-time students with a declared or a plan to declare an Education major
- Minimum 2.75 GPA & maintain it in order to maintain eligibility
- Recipients will be expected to volunteer their time with the Western Foundation, to help with special projects, fundraising events, etc. as a learning experience to advance their practical education
Description
This scholarship is provided by Peter Birkholz in loving memory of John and Rosalie Birkholz.
Depending on funds available.
Selected By : Peter Birkholz in consultation with the Education faculty and the Director of Financial Aid.
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2157 | Crawford Hall 103
Eligibility
- Students with junior standing or above at the end of the term in which he/she applies
- Must plan to teach at either elementary or secondary level
- Must be fully admitted to the Education program
- Must have a 3.0 GPA in education and overall
- Must have demonstrated personal characteristics which would predict success as a teacher
- Financial need will be considered
Description
This scholarship is provided by the family and friends of Magdalene Elkins, who was a 1920 graduate and lifelong friend of Western.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by: The Education Department.
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
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.
Applications are due Feb. 21, 2020
Eligibility:
- Full-time student
- Must be studying in Western’s Education Program with plans to become a teacher
- Must demonstrate appropriate abilities, skills and promise as observed by Western’s Education faculty
- Preference will be given to students with financial need
Description:
This scholarship is provided through donations in memory of Dr. Jerrold Hanson, Western faculty 1967-1988.
Award depends on funds available.
The recipient will be selected by the Education Department faculty.
How to apply:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
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
Eligibility
- Female education students majoring in K-12 Teacher Education
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Demonstrate past and present involvement in community service
- Applicants must have graduated from Colorado Western Slope high school
- Must be a first-generation student of a college, university, or post-secondary education
Description
Delia Fay Haefeli, a Colorado native who graduated from West Grand High School, in Kremmling, Colo. She graduated from Western in 1985 with a B.A. in Elementary Education. She received her Master’s degree from UNC. She was the first person in her family to attend and graduate from college. Delia has taught elementary and middle school for 33 years and is an ardent Boston Red Sox fan.
Award depends on funds available
Selected by: The Education Department
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Full-time student
- 3.0 GPA or greater
- Preference will be given to nontraditional students
- Must be studying in Western’s Education Program with plans to become a teacher
- Must demonstrate appropriate abilities, skills and promise as observed by Western’s Education faculty
- Preference will be given to students with financial need
Description
This scholarship is provided by Mary Alice Hansen and her family to celebrate the memory of her late husband Kenneth
Depending on funds available
Selected by: Education faculty
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Western students who have established financial need and a positive attitude
- Must demonstrate interest and potential in becoming a teacher
- Preference will be given to freshmen, but is open to students in all classes and to high school graduates who may not be eligible for other scholarships awarded to top 5 percent of graduating class
Description
This scholarship is provided by her son, V. Robert Kerr, to perpetuate the memory of Sophie Simpson Knight, an outstanding example of academic achievement, citizenship and an exemplar of courage and dedication in the pursuit of education and knowledge. Mrs. Knight’s association with Western began in 1944 and continued for more than 20 years, graduating with an A.B. and a Life Certificate in 1957 at the age of 64.
Award depends on funds available
Selected by: The Education Department.
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility:
- Must be a full time student enrolled in the education program;
- Preference for financial need.
- Must be a promising future teacher (merit-based) who is passionate, committed to and focused on their teaching career.
- Must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Preference will be given to qualified female applicants
Description:
The Casebier Scholarship has been established by the estate and family of Lorena Casebier to provide scholarship assistance to Western Colorado University students who plan to become teachers. This scholarship serves to celebrate the memory of Lorena A. Casebier, an associate professor of education at Western, who was instrumental in starting the Reading Skills Center at Western.
Award depends on funds available.
Recipient selected by the Education Department faculty
How to apply:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Graduates of Nucla High School attending Western full time who intend to pursue a career in teaching
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher
- If no candidate from Nucla High applies, any education major is eligible
Description
This scholarship is provided by Jennie and Fritz’s daughter, Betty Nylund Gibbs and her husband, Verner.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by: Western Colorado University Scholarship Committee (Director of Financial Aid).
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA at Western;
- Must be part of the education program and planning to become a teacher in the sciences or mathematics
- Financial need, academic promise and passion for teaching shall be the principal criteria
Description
The Owen Kuhn McWilliams Memorial Scholarship has been established by Raylene Owen to provide scholarship assistance to Western Colorado University students who plan to become science or mathematics teachers. This scholarship serves to honor the memory of William Henry Owen, Jr., an extraordinary science teacher, as well as Raylene McWilliams Owen’s family, a proud legacy of educators.
Award depends on funds available
Selected by: The Education Department.
Application
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Seniors at Western who are active members of intercollegiate sports teams who also plan to teach
- Must demonstrate superior academic performance
- Must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA
- Must exhibit outstanding character and leadership abilities (both in the classroom and in the intercollegiate setting)
Description
Established to honor the memory of Western Professor, Ed “Doc” Randall. Dr. Randall placed great value in both academics and Intercollegiate Athletics. This award was conceived to reward a student-Intercollegiate Athletics who has made admirable progress in teaching or coaching fields.
$500 per academic year.
Selected by: Western Scholarship Committee
Application:
Nominations submitted by Western head coaches. Contact the Intercollegiate Athletics Department for additional information.
970.943.2079 | Paul Wright Gym 210
Eligibility
- Full-time junior or senior at Western
- Must be fully admitted to the Teacher Education Program
- Must be an active participant in a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference sport
- 3.0 GPA in the major area of study for a licensure as a teacher
Description
This scholarship is provided by Paul and Dorothy Reid.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by:The Education and Athletics Departments
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Colorado residents
- Must be a full-time student in good academic standing
- Must be planning a career in elementary education
- Demonstrate academic performance and financial need
- Preference is given to students returning to college to continue their education
Description
This scholarship is provided by her children to honor their mother. Roberta Rouse met her husband, Fred, while they were attending Western. Following WWII, they returned to Western where Roberta supported her husband as he completed his education and began his career as an educator. After the birth of their last of nine children, Roberta returned to complete her B.A. and M.A. degrees in Elementary Education. Seven of their children also attended Western and five became school teachers.
Award depends on available funds (approximately $500).
Selected by: The Education Department.
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Colorado residents with preference given to Westen Slope
- Must be a full-time senior obtaining an Education Licensure
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA
- Must be a motivated individual and high achiever
Description
This scholarship is provided by the family of Dan Tredway.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by: The Education Department in cooperation with the Director of Financial Aid.
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
Eligibility
- Full-time Western Undergraduate and/or graduate juniors or seniors with an Education emphasis
- Must have at lease a 3.0 GPA
- Preference will be given to seniors and to those of underrepresented populations
- Selections are based on financial need
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2157 | Crawford Hall 103.
Eligibility
- Men and women students pursuing certification in elementary education
- Must be full-time sophomore or junior at time of selection, or junior or senior at time award is given
- Must have a 3.5 GPA or higher
- Must exhibit high standards of scholarship, leadership, and citizenship and above average communicative skills
Description
This scholarship is provided by Ann Zugelder, one of Gunnison’s most distinguished citizens. She was an elementary school teacher for more than 30 years, maintaining her interest and support of elementary education after her retirement in 1967.
Award depends on funds available.
Selected by: The Education Department
Application:
Contact the Education Department for application and deadline information.
970.943.2030 | Crawford Hall 101
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 1 for 2022. 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 freshman 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.
Description
The Western Presidential Honors Scholarships, established by the Jack and Marilyn MacAllister Foundation shall be an elite class of scholarships awarded to Western’s highest achieving and most deserving students, celebrating the ideals of academic excellence and service to the campus and community. Recipients of the Scholarships will be members of the Western Colorado University Honors Program.
There are eight Presidential Honors Scholarships of $2500 each. Each year two new Presidential Honors Scholarships will be awarded to two incoming freshmen.
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
Department Chairperson
George Kamberelis, Ph.D.Professor, Chairperson
Undergraduate Assistant
Barbara Woerner, B.Ed.Placement Coordinator, Undergraduate Program Advisor
Graduate Assistant
Marilyn KrillDepartment Support Coordinator
Campus Location
Western Colorado University
Crawford Hall 101
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231