Main navigation

Education Program Overview

Back to events

Education Program Overview

March 19, 2024

“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.

Teacher Licensure Programs & Endorsements

The Teacher Education Department offers baccalaureate degrees for initial teacher licensure in elementary education (K-5), secondary education (6-12), K-12 music education (both vocal and instrumental), and K-12 physical education. Adding an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement and Special Education Interventionist K-8 endorsement to your teaching is possible with additional coursework.

Elementary Education with K-5 Licensure

A specially designed “2+2” Elementary Education major with K-5 licensure is available on both the Bristol and Knoxville campuses. Students who hold an associate degree in teaching or undergraduate college credits should consider this program. King’s program is compatible with both Virginia and Tennessee community college teacher education programs of study.

The Elementary Education major includes concentrations in Math, Science, Social Studies, and English Language Arts. K-5 licensure courses will offer knowledge and practice in lesson planning, literacy, formative and summative assessment, English as a Second Language, teaching methods, and more.

The Elementary Education program is designed with the busy learner in mind. In the program you will:

  • Complete the program in as little as 20 months
  • Attend class one night per week right up to the student teaching practicum
  • Take classes on campus and online to complete a full-time load each semester
  • Communicate with an academic advisor every step of the way
  • Obtain licensure in one of 10 Tennessee-approved licensure programs
  • Complete a 15-week student teaching placement in the final semester
  • For more detailed information on Traditional degree completion plans, click here.
  • To view the school of Education handbook, click here.

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

Elementary Education With K-5 Licensure Program is Designed for Students Who Are:

  • Ready to pursue the vocation of teaching
  • Have a passion for the well-being of children
  • Want the flexibility of attending classes in the evening

The Education Licensure Program Specifics:

  • Designed to help you complete the program in as little as 20 months
  • Full K-5 licensure program

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 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.

School of Education Handbook

View the latest edition of the School of Education handbook.

Endorsements

  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • English
  • History
  • History – Government
  • Math
  • Physics
  • Spanish
  • Exercise Science
  • Music – Vocal
  • Music – Instrumental

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.

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. 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 Post-Baccalaureate Program, contact Dr. Angie Baker, Special Education Program Coordinator, at [email protected].

Education Faculty
Donna Watson
Dean, School of Education
Dwain Arnold
Director of Teacher Education and Assistant Professor
Angie Baker
Assistant Professor

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 visit King’s Education offices in Kline Hall. We can answer your major-related questions and you’ll be able to meet your professors.

  • To view all required courses for K-5 Licensure, CLICK HERE.
  • To view all required courses for 6-12 Licensure, CLICK HERE.
  • To view all required courses for a BA or BS in Education with an Endorsement, CLICK HERE.
  • To view all required courses for a Minor in Education, CLICK HERE.
  • For Education course descriptions, CLICK HERE.