Follow Us!
Our Leading Teacher Program in Middle Grades Education (4-8) is designed to prepare you to be a leading teacher in upper elementary and middle-grade classrooms in Pennsylvania and in many states. This certification will prepare you to teach all subject areas in Grades 4-6 and to select one of three options for concentration: (1) English/Language Arts in Grades 7-8; (2) Mathematics in Grades 7-8; or (3) a dual concentration with certification in Mathematics (Grades 7-8) and English/Language Arts in Grades 7-8; (4) Science in Grades 7-8.
Learn from experienced faculty, in a highly accredited program
Our Middle Level Education program is guided by Pennsylvania's state standards and by standards of national professional organizations and is taught by highly experienced faculty. It's recognized by the national Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The Middle Grades Education Program was re-affirmed in a major review by the Pennsylvania Department of Education in 2017.
Special Education Dual Certification
Our Leading Teacher Dual Certification Program allows undergraduate students to become certified in both the general and special education in the state of Pennsylvania. We will prepare you in your desired certification area (preK-4, middle level or secondary) to meet the diverse educational needs of students in multiple school settings including students with disabilities, challenging behavior, and social and emotional needs. Learn more about the Dual Certification in General and Special Education program.
Expand Your Horizons
Gain diverse classroom and field experience
Our Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education programs range from 128-137 credits that consist of courses and experiences organized into three major areas of study: University Core/General Education, Foundations of Education and Professional Preparation. During the first two years of the study, you will focus on completing the General Education and Foundation courses and gain experience in the classroom.
Student teaching — here or abroad
Toward the end of your studies, you will get the opportunity to student teach in an urban, suburban or rural school. You will also have the option to experience a part of your student teaching abroad. As a partner university, Duquesne University students have the opportunity to be placed by IU Global Gateway in an overseas student teaching experience in one of 18 countries. Participating countries include, but are not limited to, Australia, Costa Rica, England, Greece, India, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Spain and Tanzania.
Get a jump start on your graduate studies
Along with gaining experience in the classroom, starting junior year, qualified students may begin graduate coursework through our 5-Year Early Start Graduate Programs.