Secondary Teacher Education Program (6-12)

Inspire Community One Classroom at a Time

We guide and support mission-driven secondary educators interested in inspiring students beyond the classroom.

Leaning on an educator can facilitate engaging and thoughtful coordination between student and mentor during the most transformative years of learning. If you have a desire to teach grades 6-12, the Teacher Education Program at Bridgewater College is here to provide a hands-on approach to education. With cross-disciplinary mastery, clinical experiences, and innovation, we transform classrooms into thriving communities.

No workday will ever be the same in a secondary classroom. Earn your stripes as a mentor, advocate, and role model by becoming a secondary educator through the Bridgewater Teacher Education program. We make it simple with our state-approved program for secondary education so that you can be licensed to teach in Virginia, and many other states, through reciprocal certification contracts upon completion of the program.

Program Acceptance and Transfer Students

Once you are accepted to the program, you major in your chosen content field, complete the general education requirements, and complete the required Teacher Education Program courses.

Candidates may also seek add-on endorsements to their teaching license by taking a Praxis subject area exam.

If you are a transfer candidate, you should meet with a member of the education department as soon as you arrive at Bridgewater to plan your education course sequence.

Required Courses

In addition to completing the core courses of your chosen major, students must also complete the required education courses to obtain licensure certification:

• EDUC 140 – Intro to Teaching (3 Credits)
• EDUC 200 – Educational Psychology (3 Credits)
• EDUC 215 – Diversity in the Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 334 – Literacy in the Context Area (3 Credits)
• EDUC 372E – Classroom Management, Secondary (4 Credits)
• EDUC 380X – Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques (3 Credits)
• EDUC 412 – Curriculum and Instruction Second Class Secondary Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 452 – Seminar in Educational Practices, Secondary (1 Credit)
• EDUC 470 – Professional Student Teaching (13 Credits)

Faculty Spotlight

Dr. Jenny Martin is a devoted educator who provides students support and insight as an Associate Professor of Education and the Coordinator of Secondary Education at Bridgewater College.

As a licensed English teacher for grades 9-12, and the Teacher Education Program’s Admissions and Testing Support Coordinator, Dr. Martin finds joy in getting to know each of her students as she prepares them for testing on their journey to becoming a teacher. She strongly believes that assessments alone should not keep teachers from leading in schools. Rather, it is because, she states, that often the best teachers find that learning and assessment have not come easy for them.

Dr. Martin’s research interests include digital internships in teacher education, voice in teaching writing, and new literacies.

When she’s not teaching, Dr. Martin enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, swimming, hiking and cycling, reading, and working in her flower beds.

“Teachers have to take good care of themselves so that they can take good care of their students.”

– Dr. Martin

Dr. Martin’s advice to students interested in becoming a teacher is to understand that teaching means meeting students where they are and educating them to become a better version of themselves.

Clinical Experiences

Students interested in the Teacher Education Program must complete a set of clinical experiences in their licensure and endorsement area.

• EDUC 215: Diversity in the Classroom; 10 hours
• EDUC 334: Content Area Literacy; 20 hours
• EDUC 372: Classroom Management Secondary; 20 hours
• EDUC 412: Curriculum and Instruction; 20 hours
• EDUC 380X: Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques; over 100 hours
• EDUC 470: Student Teaching; 150 hours

All students will have completed more than 150 hours of clinical experience in 6-12 classrooms prior to their semester of student teaching.

Licensure for Secondary Education

• Tests Required: Praxis Secondary Content Knowledge
• There are many kinds of Praxis Exams which assess the qualifications of educators depending on the subject and grade level they teach.

For more information regarding required assessments for VA licensure in Secondary Education, access our Assessments Required page. Our comprehensive list of the exams you will need specifies passing scores, costs, preparation, and all the information you need to learn about becoming a certified educator.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Practicum?
  • The practicum is a three-week, full-day, placement taken immediately before student teaching. You will be expected to teach in a grade-level range different from your student teaching placement, but within your range of licensure. You will teach a minimum of two lessons, partnering with the coordinating teacher and engaging in reflective seminars. The course number for the education practicum is EDUC 380X.
• What is a Clinical Experience?
  • A clinical experience is a guided, hands-on, practical activity designed to allow for practicing and demonstrating the application of professional knowledge and theory in field-based settings. These include, but are not limited to, culminating clinical practices such as student-teaching or internships.
• What is Student Teaching?
  • Student teaching placement is a semester-long final clinical experience involving instructional planning, observation and teaching. You will be supervised by the coordinating teacher and a college supervisor. During the placement, you are expected to assume complete responsibility for the classroom and to engage in all activities related to teaching in the school community.
• What is Teacher License Reciprocity?
  • Reciprocal certification contracts allow an educator to obtain a teaching license in the state of Virginia that is transferable among 46 other states. Learn more about how teaching license reciprocity varies by state.

The program emphasizes hands-on experiences, cross-disciplinary mastery, and innovative teaching methods to transform classrooms into thriving communities.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach in middle and high school classrooms.
• Foster a passion for teaching and a commitment to inspiring students to reach their full potential.
• Prepare graduates to become licensed educators in Virginia and many other states through reciprocal certification agreements.

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Program Description:

• Program Length: Approximately four years (depending on transfer credits)
• Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, with a major in the chosen content area and a minor in education

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Outline:

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Content Courses: Students must complete a major in their chosen content area, such as English, history, math, science, or social studies.

These courses provide deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

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Education Courses: Students complete a series of education courses that focus on pedagogical skills, classroom management, assessment, curriculum development, and instructional strategies.

These courses include:

• EDUC 140 - Intro to Teaching (3 Credits)
• EDUC 200 - Educational Psychology (3 Credits)
• EDUC 215 - Diversity in the Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 334 - Literacy in the Content Area (3 Credits)
• EDUC 372E - Classroom Management, Secondary (4 Credits)
• EDUC 380X - Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques (3 Credits)
• EDUC 412 - Curriculum and Instruction Second Class Secondary Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 452 - Seminar in Educational Practices, Secondary (1 Credit)
• EDUC 470 - Professional Student Teaching (13 Credits)

Clinical Experiences:

• Students engage in a series of clinical experiences throughout the program, starting with observations and progressing to full-time student teaching.
These experiences provide opportunities to apply their pedagogical knowledge and skills in real-world classroom settings.
• Required clinical experiences include:
• EDUC 215: Diversity in the Classroom: 10 hours
• EDUC 334: Content Area Literacy: 20 hours
• EDUC 372: Classroom Management Secondary: 20 hours
• EDUC 412: Curriculum and Instruction: 20 hours
• EDUC 380X: Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques: over 100 hours
• EDUC 470: Student Teaching: 150 hours

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Assessment:

• Coursework: Regular assessments including assignments, tests, and projects are used to measure understanding of course material.
• Clinical Experiences: Performance during clinical experiences is evaluated by supervising teachers and college supervisors using observation and feedback.
• Professional Dispositions: Professional dispositions such as collaboration, communication, and critical reflection are continuously assessed throughout the program.
Active learning strategies, technology integration, and differentiated instruction are emphasized.
• Faculty: Experienced and highly qualified faculty members with expertise in various content areas and pedagogical approaches provide instruction and mentorship.
• Unique Approaches:
• Students gain experience in using technology effectively in the classroom.
• The program focuses on developing students' skills in fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments.
• Emphasis is placed on preparing students to teach diverse learners and to address the individual needs of all students.

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Careers:

• Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of career opportunities in secondary education, including teaching positions in public and private schools, as well as roles in curriculum development, educational leadership, and educational technology.
• Program Outcomes: The program boasts a high job placement rate for graduates, with many securing teaching positions in schools across the United States.
• Additional Resources: The program provides career services and support to help graduates with their job search and career development.

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Other:

• Licensure Reciprocity: Graduates are eligible for licensure in Virginia and many other states through reciprocal agreements.
• Student Teaching: Student teaching placements are available in a variety of schools and settings within a 75-mile radius of Bridgewater College.
• Financial Aid: Students are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

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Conclusion:

The Bridgewater College Secondary Teacher Education Program provides a comprehensive and hands-on preparation for future educators.

Bridgewater College: A Summarization

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Overview:

Bridgewater College is a private, liberal arts college located in Virginia. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a close-knit community and personalized learning experience. The college prides itself on its affordable tuition, making a college degree accessible to a wider range of students.

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Services Offered:

Academics:

Bridgewater College offers a diverse selection of 60 majors and minors across various disciplines.

Admissions & Aid:

The college provides comprehensive support for prospective students, including application assistance, financial aid options, and a net price calculator to estimate individual costs.

Life at Bridgewater:

The college fosters a strong sense of community, with opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, athletics, and social events.

Visit:

Prospective students can schedule campus tours, meet with current students and faculty, and experience the college environment firsthand.

Other:

Bridgewater College offers additional services such as career counseling, alumni networking, and a campus store.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Bridgewater College emphasizes a close-knit community where students are encouraged to participate in various activities and events. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and socially.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Tuition:

Bridgewater College offers a competitive tuition rate, making a private college education more accessible.

Personalized Learning:

The college prioritizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a personalized learning experience.

Strong Community:

Bridgewater College cultivates a strong sense of community, encouraging student involvement and fostering lasting connections.

Focus on Experiential Learning:

The college offers opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs, enhancing their practical skills and knowledge.

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Academic Programs:

Bridgewater College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate:

60 majors and minors across various disciplines, including the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Graduate:

Four graduate programs, focusing on areas such as education, athletic training, and business.

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Other:

Connections Campaign:

The college is currently running a $35 million campaign to raise funds for scholarships, teaching and learning initiatives, and capital projects.

Summer Research Awards:

Bridgewater College provides funding for students to conduct research projects under the guidance of faculty members during the summer.

International Opportunities:

The college offers study abroad programs and opportunities for students to engage in global learning experiences.