You’ll develop an in-depth knowledge of educational theory and group management and get practice building learning communities. You'll also put theory into practice through lesson and curriculum design. In the process, you'll be developing strong skills in communication, critical thinking, experiential learning, inquiry-based teaching and learning, leadership, and the use of technology.
Major and Minor Offered
Educational Studies (BA major, minor)
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Educational Theory and Practice Concentration
You’ll study the American educational system and see it in action at a wide variety of schools. You’ll also consider the role of teachers, students, parents, community members, and leaders in educational reform, exploring past and present efforts to design an educational system that supports learning for all students. -
Outdoor and Experiential Theory and Practice Concentration
Using Principia’s 2,600-acre campus as a living classroom, you'll have a variety of hands-on learning opportunities that emphasize leadership, outdoor program design, environmental ethics, outdoor education, team building, hard and soft skill development, experiential teaching and learning theories and methods, and program planning and delivery. You’ll also develop an understanding of the subtleties involved in designing experiential and hands-on learning opportunities for multiple venues, including a traditional classroom setting.
Note: Principia’s educational studies major does not lead to teacher licensure, but our graduates can earn teaching certification from the University of Missouri–St. Louis with scholarship funding from Principia through the Teach in Twelve program. Our graduates are also well prepared to pursue a teaching certificate in other programs and/or graduate study in education. They're also qualified to teach in many independent schools and in a variety of outdoor education settings.
Why Study Educational Studies at Principia College?
- Our program is student-centered, innovative, collaborative, and experiential.
- Our 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows invaluable access to faculty. We also mentor our students beyond graduation.
- Our students do a three-week internship at a local school.
- Our Class of 2016 graduates enjoyed 100% job placement.
- Principia faculty lead field trips to a variety of schools in Missouri and Illinois.
- Our students develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, group management, and leadership skills.
- We prepare students to continue their education in some of the top graduate schools in the country, including University of Virginia and Boston College.
- Educators and leaders from around the world hold Skype sessions with our students, sharing insight about educational theory and practice.
Abroads
Principia abroad programs are open to all majors, and students are encouraged to apply for any abroad program that interests them. All abroads involve individual research that students can tailor to their interests. The St. Lucia and Finland Abroads, focusing on educational theory and practice, are especially popular among our majors.
Note: See the College Catalog for more detailed information about our program and departmental learning outcomes.
