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WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Middle school students have unique intellectual, physical, social, and emotional needs; therefore, the teachers who teach them must be specially prepared to meet those needs. The NKU middle grades education program is built on an understanding of adolescent development and developmentally responsive educational practice. In an atmosphere of collaboration and teamwork, middle grades education majors develop the knowledge and skills to provide a relevant, meaningful, and challenging academic experience for middle school students while being responsive to their unique physical, social, and emotional needs.

What You Can Teach

A middle grades education degree prepares students to effectively teach young adolescents in a variety of middle school contexts. After completing all requirements, middle grades majors are eligible for certification to teach in Kentucky (grades 5-9), or other states, in two of the following teaching fields:

  • English and Communication
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Special Education (requires a 2nd major in special education)

Program Contact Information

Dr. Shawn Faulkner

859-572-1910

faulkners1@nku.edu

 

Accreditation

Our NKU Teacher Education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

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Beyond the Classroom

Middle grades majors gain valuable professional experience working with teachers in middle school classrooms across Northern Kentucky and greater Cincinnati beginning with the first course of the program and concluding with a full-time, semester-long experience. Students may also apply to participate in an overseas teaching experience.

Students are encouraged to enhance their professional networks through membership in the Collegiate Middle Level Association (CMLA) student organization and participation in service learning and community service activities.