Department of Teacher Education
Prepare to inspire, lead, and make a lasting impact in today’s classrooms. Rooted in a proud legacy dating back to 1837, West Liberty University’s Teacher Education programs combine hands-on experience, innovative teaching methods, and personalized support to prepare confident, future-ready educators.
Shape the future
through teaching
At West Liberty University, teacher education is more than a degree—it’s a commitment to preparing passionate educators who are ready to lead diverse classrooms. Through immersive clinical experiences, including an innovative year-long residency, students gain the confidence and real-world skills to succeed from day one.
Undergraduate Degrees Offered
- Bachelor of Arts in Inclusive Early Childhood Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Middle Childhood Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Comprehensive Education
- Health & Physical Education (Teacher Preparation Track)
- Health & Physical Education (Athletic Coaching)
Graduate Degrees Offered
- Master of Arts Education
- Doctor of Education
Degree Pathways
in Teacher Education
Explore a range of specialized pathways designed to match your passion and career goals, from early childhood classrooms to secondary subject areas and comprehensive arts and wellness education.
Prepare to teach and support young learners in inclusive classroom environments, focusing on both early childhood education and special needs development. This program equips educators to work across pre-K and kindergarten settings.
Ideal if you want to:
- Teach in preschool or kindergarten settings
- Support children with diverse learning needs
- Work in early intervention or childcare programs
Gain the skills to teach multiple subjects to students in grades K–6 while fostering a supportive and engaging classroom environment. Graduates are prepared for broad certification and strong classroom leadership.
Ideal if you want to:
- Teach in elementary schools (K–6)
- Build foundational reading, math, and science skills
- Create positive early educational experiences
Focus on teaching students in grades 5–9 with dual subject-area expertise. This program blends content specialization with adolescent development strategies.
Ideal if you want to:
- Teach middle school students
- Specialize in two content areas
- Support transitional learners during key developmental years
Develop the knowledge and leadership skills needed to teach health, fitness, and wellness while preparing for roles in coaching and recreation.
Ideal if you want to:
- Teach physical education or health
- Coach or lead recreational programs
- Promote healthy lifestyles in schools and communities
Clinical Training
Facilities
Hands-on learning environments that prepare you for the classroom
Facilities & Technology Include:
- Technology-enhanced classrooms
- Clinical and field placement partnerships with local schools
- Year-long teacher residency program
- Access to real-world teaching environments
Students benefit from immersive, real-world practice—building confidence through direct classroom experience before graduation.
Careers in
Teacher Education
Career Paths
Graduates of Teacher Education at West Liberty University are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Elementary School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- High School Teacher
- Special Education Teacher
- Early Childhood Educator
- Health or Physical Education Teacher
- Arts or Music Educator
- Instructional Coach or Educational Leader
West Liberty graduates make a meaningful difference—shaping future generations, strengthening communities, and inspiring lifelong learning.
Mission, Vision
& Values
With a legacy rooted in preparing educators since 1837, the Teacher Education Department is dedicated to developing skilled, compassionate educators who lead with purpose, innovation, and integrity.
Core Values:
Student-centered learning · Inclusivity and respect for diverse learners · Experiential, hands-on education · Collaboration and community engagement · Professional excellence and integrity
The curriculum emphasizes real-world application, reflective practice, and the development of effective facilitators of 21st-century learning.
Graduate
Competencies
Graduates demonstrate competence in:
- Instructional planning and delivery
- Classroom management and student engagement
- Assessment and data-driven instruction
- Inclusive and equitable teaching practices
- Effective communication and collaboration
- Professional ethics and leadership
Student Resources
& Engagement
Students and alumni benefit from a wide range of departmental resources and engagement opportunities, including:
- Year-long student teaching residency
- Clinical and field experiences starting early in the program
- Faculty mentorship and small class sizes
- Professional development workshops and conferences
- Partnerships with local schools and districts
- Test preparation support for licensure exams
- Opportunities for community engagement and service learning
Contact the
Department
Have questions about programs, admissions, or career pathways? Our faculty and advisors are here to help you take the next step.
Dr. Richard Whitehead
Chair o Undergraduate & Graduate Education, Associate Professor
West Liberty University
Phone: 304-336-8486
Email: Richard.Whitehead@westliberty.edu
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.