Education Program Overview

“King University is a great place to be challenged academically, but it also fosters community and inspirational learning that prepares you to be the best at what you dream of becoming” – Daniel Day (Master of Education)

Teaching is a profession that has a profound impression on future generations with daily challenges and joys. If you have an interest in teaching as a career or have always wanted to be a teacher, you can reach that goal in 4 years at King University.

Program Highlights

  • Over the last three years, more than 85 percent of our graduates have been hired by local school districts
  • Students have the opportunity to get more than 100 practical observation hours in a variety of settings, prior to student teaching
  • All of our instructors have practical experience in a public school setting.

Program Format

  • All School of Education programs are offered online.
  • Elementary Education (K-5) is offered both in the traditional face-to-face on-campus experience and online.
  • Secondary Education (6-12) is offered in the traditional face-to-face on campus experience and online.  Not all endorsements are available online.

Teacher Licensure Programs

The School of Education offers initial teaching licensure programs in the following areas:

  • Elementary education (K-5)
  • Secondary education (6-12)
  • English as a Second Language (Post- baccalaureate)
  • Special Education Interventionist K-8 (Post- baccalaureate)
  • Curriculum & Instruction (M.Ed.)

The School of Education offers graduate degrees for those who already possess a teaching license:

  • Instructional Leadership (M.E.d)
  • Instructional Leadership (Ed.S.)

Program Specifics

  • Communicate with an academic advisor every step of the way
  • Obtain licensure in one of 13 Tennessee-approved licensure programs
  • Complete a 15-week student teaching placement in the final semester for initial licensure programs

Our Mission is to Prepare You For a Career With:

  • A commitment to community and service
  • Academic and technical competence
  • An appreciation for diverse abilities and cultures

Student Teaching in the Final Semester

After fulfilling all King University and Tennessee Department of Education requirements, including course work and successful Praxis scores, students seeking initial licensure will spend the final semester prior to graduation in the field, student teaching and making connections that will lead to positive relationships and possible employment.

Endorsements

  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • English*
  • History*
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Spanish

*Offered online and as a part of Grow Your Own

  • Music – Instrumental
  • Music – Vocal
  • Physical Education

Licensed teachers can obtain an additional endorsement in English as a Second Language by completing 12 semester hours. The online classes are taught in five-week increments and may be completed in two academic semesters or during the summer. The endorsement may be added to a Tennessee teaching license and to other state licenses according to their reciprocity agreements. Endorsement meets the Virginia Standards.

Licensed teachers can obtain this additional endorsement fully online.

Available in two pathways:

  • Degree-Seeking: Students pursuing B.S. Degree in Elementary Education Grades K-5 with a K-8 Special Education Interventionist minor will take the special education courses along with other coursework.
  • Post-baccalaureate: A Special Education Interventionist K-8 endorsement may serve as an additional endorsement for a licensed K-5, K-6, or K-8 teacher through the post-baccalaureate program.

For further information regarding the Special Education Program, contact Dr. Angie Baker, Special Education Program Coordinator, at [email protected].

Students with a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership or an Educational Specialist in Instructional Leadership can choose to sit for the SLLA This endorsement may be added to a Tennessee teaching license and to other state licenses according to their reciprocity agreements. Endorsement meets the Virginia Standards. 

Education Coursework

After gaining admission into the Teacher Education program in your sophomore year, students will be able to follow a plan that leads to a career in elementary, or high school teaching, as well as music and physical education.

Are you interested in impacting lives and making a lasting difference? If you believe teaching is your calling, please contact School of Education faculty. If you are in the area stop by campus – King’s Education offices are in Kline Hall. We can answer your major-related questions and you’ll be able to meet your professors.

Education Faculty
An older woman with short dark hair smiles at the camera. She wears gold earrings and a black, lacy, crocheted top. The background is plain and dark.
Donna Watson
Dean, School of Education
A smiling bald man with a gray goatee wearing a blue shirt and a plaid blazer stands outdoors in front of blurred greenery and a building.
Dwain Arnold
Director of Teacher Education and Assistant Professor
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Angie Baker
Assistant Professor