Earn Your Middle Grades Education Degree | Prepare to Teach Grades 5-9
Shape the Next Generation
Become a Certified Middle School Educator.
Western Kentucky University's offers distinct pathways to prepare you for the rewarding career of a middle grades teacher (grades 5-9). We equip you with the pedagogical skills and deep subject matter knowledge to create dynamic and effective learning environments for young adolescents.
- ✔ Gain In-Depth Subject Expertise
- ✔ Master Effective Teaching Strategies
- ✔ Achieve Certification in Your Chosen Field
What You'll Learn & Experience
At WKU, our Middle Grades Education programs equip you with the essential tools and understanding to succeed as an impactful teacher and leader for students in grades 5-9. Through comprehensive coursework focused on adolescent development and subject-specific pedagogy, combined with extensive real-world classroom experiences, you'll gain the confidence to inspire and effectively teach young adolescent learners.
Learn by Doing
Engage in meaningful, hands-on field experiences integrated throughout your program. These practical opportunities in middle school settings will prepare you for the dynamic realities of teaching and allow you to apply your learning directly with students.
Customize Your Path
Choose from specialized degree tracks to become certified in the subject areas you want to teach:
- English/Language Arts and Social Studies: Pursue single or dual certification in these areas through our dedicated Middle Grades Education program in the School of Teacher Education.
- Mathematics or Science: Specialize through our innovative SKyTeach program, combining a major in Science and Mathematics Education (SMED) with a major in Middle Grades Mathematics (MGM) or Middle School Science (MSS).
Career Outcomes
Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Middle Grades Education.
Graduates of WKU’s Middle Grades Education program go on to make a lasting impact in classrooms and communities across the region.
9.4%
Data for Projected Growth sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics and Steppingblocks, a graduate insights software that analyzes the top employers for WKU Education major graduates.
- Jefferson County Public Schools
- Warren County Schools
- Fayette County Public Schools
- Oldham County Schools
- Bowling Green Independent Schools
Data for Top Employers sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics and Steppingblocks, a graduate insights software that analyzes the top employers for WKU Education major graduates.
Course Spotlight: Your Learning Journey
Get a glimpse into the types of engaging and practical courses you'll take in our Middle Grades Education program. Here are a few examples designed to prepare you for teaching students in grades 5-9:
Introduction to Teacher Education
EDU 250 | 3 Credit Hours
Begin your journey into the teaching profession! This course introduces core knowledge, ethics, professionalism, and diverse learning needs in today’s classrooms.
Clinical Practices in Middle School Teaching
MGE 395 | 6 Credit Hours
Immerse yourself in the middle school environment. Develop working knowledge of planning, instruction, assessment, and creating a positive classroom climate.
Knowing and Learning in Mathematics and Science
SMED 310 | 3 Credit Hours
Delve into theories of cognition and learning. Examine research on memory, development, motivation, and intelligence, applying these to lesson design.
Research Methods for Math and Science Teachers
SMED 360 | 3 Credit Hours
Introduces tools and inquiry techniques used by scientists and mathematicians. You'll design, conduct, and present your own investigations.
Explore Our Middle Grades Education Programs
Discover the pathway that fits your career goals in middle grades education (grades 5-9). We offer programs for aspiring undergraduates, those seeking initial certification via a master's degree, and experienced educators pursuing advanced credentials.
Middle Level Education in Social Studies and Language Arts, Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
The Middle Level Education in Social Studies and Language Arts program leads to the
Bachelor of Science degree and certification for grades 5-9 in Social Studies, Language
Arts / Communication, or both.
Learn More: B.S. Program
Science and Mathematics Education, Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Our program for future middle school science or math teachers combines a foundational
science and mathematics education curriculum with a specialized major in the student's
chosen science or mathematics teaching field.
Learn More: B.S. Program
Teacher Education, Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
For individuals with a non-education bachelor's degree seeking initial P-5 teaching
certification.
Learn More: MAT Program
Advanced Teacher Education, Master of Arts in Education (MAE)
For certified teachers seeking advanced knowledge and professional development.
Learn More: MAE Program
Middle Grades Education, Rank I
This non-degree program leads to eligibility for Rank I.
Learn More: Rank I
Learn from Expert Faculty
Personalized Guidance from Experienced Educators.
At WKU, you’ll be supported by dedicated faculty with real-world teaching experience. Our professors are more than instructors, they’re mentors, researchers, and leaders in education.
- Program Coordinator, Professor, Assistant Director
- janet.tassell@wku.edu
- Gary A. Ransdell Hall 1104
- 270-745-5306
- http://people.wku.edu/janet.tassell
Have Questions? Text Us!
Need more information about our programs or have specific questions? Text The School
of Teacher Education
directly! We’re here to help you with everything from admissions to program details.
Text Us At: 270-721-8539
Please note, this number cannot receive phone calls.
Have questions? We're here to help.
The School of Teacher Education
Gary A. Ransdell Hall, Office 1005
1906 College Heights Blvd. #11030,
Bowling Green, KY 42101-1030
Additional Information
Program Info
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