The Middle Grades Education program combines challenging educational and academic
coursework with guided experiences in public schools. Students study child development;
teaching methods, research and strategies; and differentiating instruction for different
types of learners. Students take additional courses in their concentration. Language
arts students study teaching literature and English. Mathematics students take courses
from problem solving to calculus. Science students study astronomy, biology, chemistry,
geology and physics. Social studies students complete courses in U.S. and world history.
All students complete internships and student teaching with mentorship from dedicated,
experienced teachers and guidance from Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµfaculty. Students can enjoy service and
social activities in a WHEE Teach organization and reside in a WHEE Teach living and
learning community.
Where You'll Go
Graduates are recommended to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction for
initial licensure to teach sixth- through ninth-grades in public schools in the state.
Teachers may find positions in which they specialize in specific age ranges or skills,
or disciplines ranging from English and art to Spanish and science. The U.S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics projects employment of middle school teachers to grow 12 percent
from 2012 to 2022.
The Middle Grades Education program prepares students to serve as teachers of sixth-,
seventh-, eighth- and ninth-graders with specialties in language arts, mathematics,
science or social studies. WCU’s teacher education program has won multiple awards
from national education associations and is accredited by the National Council for
Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Degree Options
School
College of Education & Allied Professions, School of Teaching & Learning
Location
Cullowhee Campus
Length
Full-Time
Time to Complete:
4 Year Average
Credits:
120 total credit hours (varies slightly depending on selected concentration)
App Deadline:
Admission to WCU; separate admission to the Teacher Education Program required
More About Our Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education
The Middle Grades Education (B.S.Ed.) program at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ prepares future teachers to thrive in grades 6–9, focusing on the unique academic, social, and developmental needs of early adolescents.
Students receive comprehensive training in instructional methods, adolescent development,
and effective classroom practices.
Middle Grades Education majors choose from four academic concentrations—Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, or Social Studies—allowing them to build deep content knowledge alongside professional education coursework.
Throughout the program, students participate in field experiences, internships, and
a full semester of student teaching in public schools.
Graduates of the program are recommended for North Carolina initial teaching licensure (grades 6–9) and are well-prepared to begin rewarding careers in middle-level education.
The Middle Grades Education program combines strong academic coursework, specialized
concentration study, and practical teaching training. Upon graduation you are recommended
for an initial North Carolina teaching license for grades 6–9, positioning you to
begin a career as a middle-school teacher.
Middle Grades Education students build a strong foundation in general education and
teaching methodology, then dive deep into a concentration of their choice — whether
that’s Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, or Language Arts.
Throughout the program, you’ll gain real-world teaching experience in middle-grade
classrooms — not just observation, but active teaching, lesson planning, and engagement
with students. This hands-on training ensures you graduate ready to step into a full-time
teaching role.
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