Created as a state normal college, the primary purpose of Sul Ross State University originally was preparing teachers for the public schools of west Texas. While the university now serves a wider purpose, the Department of Education actively seeks to prepare students for service in the educational world of the 21st century and offers a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies in Alpine.
The continuing mission of the Department of Education is to prepare students to be
- Successful educational leaders;
- Practicing scholars; and
- Lifelong learners.
Students interested in becoming a certified teacher in Texas public schools should contact the Department of Education early in their SRSU career. While most coursework is taken in various departments of the University, it is crucial that the appropriate courses be chosen, sequenced, and completed so students may transition to the Teacher Education Program with minimal disruption. Each teaching area has requirements for certification that must be met.
Students apply for admission to the Teacher Education Program in the middle of the junior year when you have 75 or more semester credit hours of approved college coursework.
Specific information regarding Teacher Education requirements may be found in the current University catalog.
Concentration Requirements
Early Childhood–6
Students on the EC-6 Generalist concentration will take additional classes in content subjects (English, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Sciences, Fine Arts/Health/PE), Reading, and Pedagogy to provide the in-depth knowledge needed to be a successful elementary and early middle school teacher.
English, Language Arts & Reading 4-8
Students on the ELA/R 4-8 concentration are prepared to teach these three subjects at the upper-elementary and middle school grade levels. Students will take additional English composition, literature, and structure courses from the Languages & Literature Department, in conjunction with Reading & Pedagogy courses from the Education Department, to provide the in-depth knowledge needed to be a successful middle school teacher.
Mathematics 4-8
Students on the Math 4-8 concentration are prepared to teach mathematics at the upper-elementary and middle school grade levels. Students will take additional upper level Math courses from the Computer Science and Math Department, in conjunction with Education & Pedagogy courses from the Education Department, to provide the in-depth knowledge needed to be a successful middle school teacher.
Science 4-8
Students on the Science 4-8 concentration are prepared to teach science classes at the upper-elementary and middle school grade levels. Students will take additional Sciences courses in biology, chemistry, and geology from the Biology-Geology & Physical Sciences Department, in conjunction with Education & Pedagogy courses from the Education Department. Together, these courses provide the in-depth knowledge needed to be a successful middle school teacher.
Social Studies 4-8
Students on the Social Studies concentration are prepared to teach social studies classes at the upper-elementary and middle school grade levels. Students will take additional Social Science courses in Geography, History, Political Science, and Sociology the Behavioral & Social Science Department, plus coursework in Education & Pedagogy from the Education Department. Together, the courses in this concentration provide students the in-depth knowledge needed to be a successful middle school teacher.
Contact
Dr. Diana Rodriguez
Teacher Education, Program Coordinator
432.837.8433
drodriguez5@sulross.edu