Learn different cultures and history to teach the next generation of young minds. The social studies education degree equips you to teach children in grades 5–12 at a public or private school. This degree also prepares you for further graduate study.
This might be the right degree for you if
- you enjoy history, geography, and politics
- are eager to serve your community
- are passionate about teaching
Why do social studies education at Northwestern?
Our education programs integrate classroom preparation and practical experience into coursework. Northwestern’s Pre K–12 school partnerships provide experience and mentorship with current teachers.
The School of Education students have the opportunity to travel to Haiti for one week to learn about global education. This will equip you to teach in diverse communities. You can also study over spring break in China or go on a Civil Rights Pilgrimage with other education students. You can gain even more experience by participating in our international student teaching program.
Northwestern’s School of Education provides you with four levels of classroom experience.
- The first allows you to find your personal “fit” within the teaching profession.
- The second level focuses on developing theory and skills related to diversity.
- The third level teaches you to apply methodologies by creating, teaching, and evaluating lessons in a school classroom.
- The final level is full time student teaching in a chosen licensure field.
The School of Education programs are approved by the MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. We meet Minnesota’s standards adopted for licensure programs as defined in state rule 8710.2000 through 8710.8080. All licensure programs align with INTASC (Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium) standards and the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice.
The School of Education has hosted Christian Educators Association International (CEAI) events, and is a member of CEAI.
The School of Education attends the Compass Educator Breakfast each fall (through Grace Church in Eden Prairie, MN).
With campus so close to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, students can take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving education system.
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Careers in social studies education
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in social studies education.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Teaching in your area of specialty
- Private tutoring
- Creating/directing educational programs
- Curriculum development
- Instructional design (technology training may be required)
- Textbook editing
- Online education
- Student life/student affairs
- Corporate or business training and development
What will I learn?
You will learn to analyze, think critically and be able to teach social studies education to children in grades 5-12.
CFD 3207
Adolescent Development and the Middle Level Learner
Attention is given to physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual development. Topics covered include current issues faced by adolescents: social networks, peer relations, sexuality, identity formation, and cultural contexts. The course examines the varying models of middle level education and developmentally appropriate practice for fostering the growth and development of adolescents.
HIS 1005
Historical Perspectives on Culture, Belief, and Civilization
Students will examine how world cultures and belief systems have interacted with each other since ancient times. They will explore a variety of ideas, traditions, and movements, discuss key literary and cultural texts, and develop a thoughtful view on the roots and influence of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Reflecting upon this complex historical heritage will inform discussion of today’s global issues.
ANT 1045
Introduction to Anthropology
A survey of the four branches of anthropology: physical—human origins and the creation/evolution debate; historical—archaeology, the study of past civilizations; linguistic—communication systems; cultural—man’s key to survival.
GEO 1005
Introduction to Geography
An introduction to the study of the interrelation of human and physical geography. Attention is directed to geographical concepts, maps, physical geography, population geography, cultural geography, political geography, agriculture and economic geography.
POS 2005
U.S. National Government
The study of the structure and processes of American national government and its political processes and institutions. Particular attention is paid to constitutionalism, federalism, the presidency, the Congress, the Judiciary, bureaucracy, interest groups and policy formation.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the School of Education
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
