We believe that teachers need to be knowledgeable about their subjects, human learning and development and the contexts, cultures and purposes of education. We also believe that teachers need to be advocates for student and community development who are both skilled in the use of a variety of materials and methods and leaders who can effect positive change. Working toward these goals we offer courses that include research, practice and participation in Franklin, Grundy and Marion County schools. Our facilitation of the South Cumberland Rural Teacher Network in these counties focuses on teacher-led professional development and school improvement and provides students with research and leadership experiences.
The Minor in Education
The minor in Education is a program for students who are interested in pursuing careers as pre-K through 12 teachers, school and guidance counselors and administrators. The minor does not lead to a teaching license, rather is excellent preparation for post-baccalaureate and graduate programs. It is also an organized course of study for students interested in art, museum, community and environmental education, training in business and higher education.
Sewanee and Peabody College of Education at Vanderbilt University have formalized an agreement, which allows students who carefully plan their coursework at Sewanee to complete M.Ed. degrees and teaching licensure requirements in secondary, elementary, special education and additional fields in as little as three semesters. Peabody representatives come to campus each fall to discuss opportunities for graduate studies in education and to help students plan for them.
The minor in education entails five full courses (20 hours). Course Requirements: Two courses are required: Education 161: Introduction to Educational Psychology (four hours) and one methods course: EITHER Education 341: Methods and Materials of Teaching (four hours), OR Education 343: Materials and Methods for Teaching Art (four hours), OR Education 355: Methods and Materials of Teaching Theatre (four hours). Three elective courses (twelve hours) are also required.
With advance approval by the Chair of Education, one course may be taken at another college or university.
Admission to the Minor
Students may apply for admission to the minor from the third through the middle of the eighth semester at Sewanee. The minor declaration form is available in the education and registrar’s offices. We encourage students to contact the education program chair early in their academic careers so we may tailor the program best suited to each student’s goals. University policy stipulates that students must complete all courses in the minor with a “C” or higher.
