Why Choose a Career in Education?
All students bring to school their own personal gifts and talents, and it is our responsibility as educators to help uncover, nurture and develop them. Our goal as teachers is to convey our subjects with passion, set high standards and help students believe in themselves. Excellence in that endeavor takes time and practice. We constantly strive to improve our approach: To be creative, never boring or routine.
Teachers, too, play an important role in a democratic society whose vitality depends upon a well-educated and discerning citizenry. Thus, we seek interactive, collaborative partnerships between students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the business and social community.
Career Opportunities
Population growth has led to enrollment increases in our nation’s schools. That, coupled with reductions in class size and the large number of teachers reaching retirement age, indicates that job openings for elementary teachers should increase substantially.
Though the projections for employment in education are promising, increased teacher involvement in school policy making, a greater public interest in education, and higher teacher salaries are making careers in education even more attractive. Enrollment in teacher education programs is escalating, and it is important that those students interested in teaching graduate from a respected and accredited teacher education program.
Teacher Education at PLU
PLU is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges and the Washington State Board of Education. Traditionally, teacher placement rates of PLU graduates have been among the highest in the state. The School of Education’s emphasis on early and on-going field experiences, coupled with an enduring heritage of excellence in professional and liberal arts education, has given PLU one of the most respected programs in the region.
To prepare students as teachers, PLU fosters a climate of intellectual challenge distinguished by enthusiastic learning and committed faculty. Students and staff alike seek to apply and advance knowledge and discern relationships between all branches of learning. Rigorous scholarship is enriched by active mentorship and collaboration. Professors in the School of Education model the pursuit of excellence, engage in ongoing study of teaching methods, and take a personal interest in the success of their students.
Course Requirements
For a list of course offerings check-out the catalog »
Special Education
The Special Education Major (32 semester hours) may be combined with the Elementary Education Program by those who want an endorsement to teach in a special education classroom. With careful planning, the double major may be completed in four years and one or two summers.
Admission Requirements
Students are encouraged to complete the majority of their General University Requirements and education prerequisites prior to their application to the School of Education.
Students should apply to the School of Education in the semester before they attain junior status.
Students must file a completed application portfolio in the School of Education by the first Friday in March for the Fall Semester.
Requirements include:
- Passing scores on all sections of the Washington Educator Skills Test - Basic (WEST-B)
- A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or above.
- Psychology 101: grade of C or higher.
- Writing 101: grade of C or higher.
Requirements for portfolio completion may vary from semester to semester. Check with the School of Education for current procedures.
Baccalaureate Degree and/or Certification
Requirements include:
Students become candidates for certification when they have successfully completed the following:
- All course work with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or above.
- Professional Education Sequence for elementary teaching.
- Approved support area(s) or concentration(s).
- A valid first aid card before student teaching.
- All courses in education and all other courses within major and minor fields with grade of C or higher.
- A student teaching experience. Students must complete all application procedures by the first Friday in March for fall or the first Friday in October for spring student teaching.
- A valid first aid card.
- Fingerprint clearance.
Students who do not already attend Pacific Lutheran University should request a general application from the Office of Admissions (253-535-7151 or 1-800-274-6758). A separate application to the School of Education is required for admission to the Elementary Program.
Visit www.plu.edu/~educ/prospects/undergrad-courses.html to learn more about the Elementary Education Program Course of Study and other special programs within the PLU School of Education.
