Emphasis

The emphasis in this area is on providing the student with the professional education coursework needed for state licensure in Secondary Education. This program presents teaching as reflective practice. By developing a reflective, problem-solving orientation toward education, graduates of these programs should be empowered to critically examine their own actions and the context of these actions for the purpose of a more deliberative mode of professional activity. The outcome should be self-directed teachers who use professional knowledge to actively, persistently and carefully improve their practice.

The Secondary Education sequence prepares middle school and high school teachers. It is a 42-hour sequence including student teaching. Students in secondary education must also fulfill specific state requirements concerning a subject area of specialization.

Special Skills

The teacher certification program provides students with information about the teaching processes, including learning theory and teaching methodology; interpersonal skills required in the teaching/learning process; knowledge of curriculum theory and design based on individual assessments; competency in the development and use of instructional materials; and opportunities to apply theory through directed practicum experience.

Individuals interested in Secondary Education should contact Dr. Joan Thompson, the Coordinator for the Secondary Education graduate program, in order to discuss their needs and to determine whether the department's offerings can accommodate those needs. These programs are NCATE accredited and approved by the District of Columbia, which has a reciprocity agreement with 48 states.

The Catholic University of America is committed to a strong and vibrant teacher education program, not a teacher training program concerned solely with developing basic teaching skills. While we recognize the need for students to demonstrate a basic level of teaching competence, we view that achievement as only the beginning of their professional preparation. We are more concerned with the development of critical, reflective minds and in morally grounded, self-motivated action. The sections below describe the program designed to foster these qualities. 

• Philosophy & Conceptual Framework
• Admissions Requirements For Students
• Exit Requirements For Students
• Certification Information

• Secondary Education
• Comprehensive Exams
• Practicum
• Student Teaching