(B.A.) in Social Studies Education (5–Adult)
Turn your passion for history and culture into a teaching career with real-world classroom experience for grades 5 through adulthood.
Shape the next generation
of informed citizens
At West Liberty University, the Social Studies Education program prepares you to teach with confidence, purpose, and impact. You’ll build a strong foundation in the social sciences while gaining the hands-on experience needed to lead dynamic classrooms and foster critical thinking in your students.
Degree type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Total credits: Approximately 120 credits (standard undergraduate degree structure)
Outcome: Teacher certification for grades 5–Adult
Format: On-campus
Program
Overview
The Social Studies Education program exists to prepare knowledgeable and effective educators who can teach history, political science, geography, and related disciplines in secondary classrooms. As part of West Liberty’s long-standing teacher education tradition, the program blends liberal arts learning with professional preparation to support future educators in meeting the demands of modern classrooms.
Who This
Program Is For
Aspiring secondary educators
Students who want to teach social studies at the middle or high school level and earn certification for grades 5–Adult.
Passionate history enthusiasts
Individuals driven to explore the past and help students connect historical events to modern issues.
Civic-minded leaders
Students interested in government, politics, and civic engagement who want to inspire informed citizenship.
Career changers or transfer students
Learners seeking a meaningful, people-focused career in education with strong job stability and community impact.
What
You’ll Learn
Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of the social sciences alongside the pedagogical skills needed to effectively teach diverse learners in secondary settings.
Content mastery in social sciences
- Develop strong knowledge in history, geography, political science, and sociology
- Analyze social systems, cultures, and historical trends
- Connect interdisciplinary concepts across the social sciences
Instructional design & teaching strategies
- Create engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards
- Apply evidence-based teaching strategies
- Assess student learning and adapt instruction accordingly
Classroom leadership & professionalism
- Manage classroom environments effectively
- Foster inclusive and supportive learning spaces
- Demonstrate ethical and professional teaching practices
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum integrates foundational liberal arts coursework, specialized social science content, and professional education training, culminating in supervised student teaching experiences.
Program structure
- General Education Coursework
- Social Science Core (history, political science, geography, sociology)
- Professional Education Courses
- Clinical Experiences / Student Teaching
Required prerequisites include:
- Foundational coursework in English, mathematics, and introductory social sciences
- Early education coursework as required by the Teacher Education Program
Admission requirements (professional phase)
Entry into the teacher education phase typically requires:
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
- Approval through the Teacher Education Program review process
Career &
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for careers in secondary education and related fields, with opportunities to lead classrooms, support curriculum development, and contribute to educational communities.
Common career paths:
- Middle school social studies teacher
- High school history or government teacher
- Curriculum developer or instructional coordinator
- Education program specialist
- Community or civic education leader
Professional value
Through a combination of strong academic preparation and immersive classroom experience, graduates are eligible for teaching certification and equipped with the skills needed to succeed as impactful educators.
Admission
Requirements
The Social Studies Education program follows a selective admission process to ensure candidates are academically prepared and ready for professional teaching experiences.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Application to the Teacher Education Program
- Minimum GPA as established by the Teacher Education Department
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
Application deadline:
Please consult the Teacher Education Program and Academic Catalog for current application and admission deadlines.
Applicants are evaluated through a structured review process based on academic performance and readiness for classroom placement.
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid &
Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
Step 1: Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2: Declare your Social Studies Education major
Step 3: Apply to the Teacher Education Program
Step 4: Review the advising guide and academic plan
Step 5: Complete prerequisite coursework and admission benchmarks
Step 6: Prepare for enrollment and course registration
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
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.