Middle Level Education
Learn how to engage and capture the attention of students during their impressionable middle-school years.
Students in grades four through eight can be as different as night and day. They’re at various stages of physical, mental and emotional developmental, and yes, they are easily distracted. They are also full of wonder and excitement. With a B.S.Ed. degree from PennWest, you will be prepared to excel as you teach these students.
This program is backed by PennWest’s legacy in teacher education. Our philosophy of excellence and commitment to developing future teachers will help you understand the professional, social and ethical responsibilities associated with being an educator.
Asa student, you'll have the opportunity to learn from faculty who are passionate about teaching, research and scholarship. Most have terminal degrees in their field as well as experience in middle-school classrooms. They will become your mentors as you learn how to create dynamic lessons and develop strong classroom management skills.
This four-year undergraduate degree program is rooted in the standards of the Association of Middle Level Education (AMLE) and is specifically designed to prepare you for a top career teaching middle school students. You will receive plenty of field experiences in local classrooms and have opportunities for job placement support from faculty, alumni and PennWest’s Career and Professional Development Center.
Choose from an english, math, science or social science concentration.
This program is for you if...
- You aspire to shape young minds by teaching children in grades 4 through 8 and seek to gain comprehensive skills and knowledge in this field.
- You're interested in a career that goes beyond traditional teaching roles, including positions as public or private school teachers, para-educators, remediation teachers, or even roles in children and youth services.
- You value hands-on experience and real-world preparation.
- You're looking for a program with top accreditation and a history of success.
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120-121 Credits for BSEd
What You'll Study
In the Bachelor of Science in Education, Middle Level Education program at PennWest, you'll study a rich and diverse curriculum designed to prepare you for effective teaching in grades 4 through 8. Your studies will encompass a blend of general education courses, professional education classes, and concentration-specific content, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.
General education courses aim to build a strong foundation in areas such as English composition, public speaking, mathematics, science, and social studies, fostering a well-rounded academic background. The program emphasizes the importance of building community, supporting English language learners, and incorporating technology in teaching. Specialized courses in your chosen concentration, whether English, Math, Science, or Social Studies, delve deep into teaching methods and assessments tailored for middle school education.
| Concentrations | Campuses | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| English | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Math | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Science | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Social Science | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
Concentrations are offered either as In-Person or Blended for this program. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations. A blended degree combines traditional in-person courses with flexible, online educational experiences.
What You'll Become
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Education, Middle Level Education program at PennWest will become versatile, skilled educators ready to embark on rewarding careers within the middle school educational system. You will become a professional capable of fostering young adolescents' intellectual, emotional, and social growth in grades 4 through 8. As a graduate, you'll have the credentials to become a public or private school teacher, a para-educator, a remediation teacher, or even engage in children and youth services. The comprehensive training and real-world teaching experience obtained through this program will prepare you for various roles beyond the traditional classroom, including becoming substitute teachers, recreation services instructors, and curriculum authors. This program equips you with not just teaching skills but also the ability to inspire scientific inquiry, develop critical thinking, and encourage a lifelong love of learning among middle school students. Your journey through PennWest’s Middle Level Education program will transform you into an educator who can adapt to diverse classroom environments, meet the challenges of the evolving educational landscape, and positively impact the lives of young learners
Career Paths
- Middle School Teacher
- Para-educator
- Remediation Teacher
- Children and Youth Services Director
- Substitute Teacher
- Curriculum Authors
Teacher Shortage
PennWest initiates recruitment, training programs to address U.S. teacher shortage.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
$65,490
The average middle school teacher salary in Pennsylvania according to salary.com.
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.