Education (B.A.)

The Education major offers opportunities to integrate knowledge and research methodologies from several academic disciplines and field sites into a focused examination of the interdisciplinary field of education. The four-year Education major is designed for students who seek a rich understanding of education grounded in science, the arts, and the humanities. The principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to many courses and experiences.

The goal of the program is to graduate civically, globally, and intellectually engaged students who understand the complexities of education, are capable of analyzing and evaluating complex problems influencing education from a variety of disciplinary perspectives, and are committed to becoming leaders and role models in the communities in which they work. Program graduates will be prepared for present and future challenges as well as for a wide range of employment opportunities in educational and professional settings engaged in educational policy, community-based education, and educational advocacy.

The BA in Education does not lead to teacher licensure. Students in the Education major interested in a licensure program (e.g., Elementary School teaching) may apply to the Accelerated Master’s program at UNH and potentially finish both the BA in Education and MEd in five years. 

Degree Requirements

All Major, Option and Elective Requirements as indicated.
*Major GPA requirements as indicated.

Candidates for a degree must satisfy all of the University Discovery Program and Writing Program requirements in addition to satisfying the requirements of each individual major program. Bachelor of Arts candidates must also satisfy the foreign language proficiency requirement. 

Major Requirements

The Education BA requires 52 credits. The required minimum overall GPA in major coursework is 3.0.

Education Language Requirement

The bachelor of arts degree at the University of New Hampshire requires that students satisfy the foreign language proficiency requirement. The requirement may be met by demonstrating language proficiency equal to a one-year college-level course (401 and 402, 403 and 503, 501 [Latin only], or 503 and above in a spoken language). American Sign Language courses meet the foreign language proficiency requirement for Education majors when COMM 401 American Sign Language I and COMM 502 American Sign Language II have been completed. 

Sample Degree Plan

This sample degree plan serves as a general guide; students collaborate with their academic advisor to develop a personalized degree plan to meet their academic goals and program requirements.

Program Learning Outcomes

• GOAL ONE: Our students effectively analyze the social dimensions of education, including issues of culture, gender, equity, health and economics.
• GOAL TWO. Our students demonstrate depth of knowledge in their subjects; recognize how knowledge in their subjects is created, organized and linked to other disciplines; identify the organizing themes and central concepts necessary for understanding a subject; and identify associated content necessary for students to understand these themes and concepts.
• GOAL THREE. Our students understand how students develop and learn; treat students equitably and work diligently to help each student reach their potential; and create and maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning.
• GOAL FOUR. Our students make well-reasoned choices and decisions within the complex and demanding conditions of teaching. They analyze the effects of their actions and make appropriate changes. They consider the moral and philosophical implications of educational decisions. They improve their practice by reflecting on their own experience, observing others, seeking advice and drawing upon educational research and scholarship.
• GOAL FIVE. Our students assess the relative merits of educational reform efforts and determine their appropriateness to the classroom, school and broader societal contexts in which teaching and learning occur. They develop and articulate their own conceptual and philosophical perspective on teaching and learning based on professional experience and current theories and research in education. They understand the nature of educational change, the teacher's role in the change process, and are willing to take risks as advocates for the benefit of students, teachers, and the profession.
• GOAL SIX. Our students are active members of learning and professional communities. They work with colleagues to enhance their own teaching, learning and professional development, and work collaboratively with students, peers, and community members to create and contribute to effective learning environments.