Multidisciplinary Studies
(Early Childhood through Grade Four Teacher Certification)

Program description

Students wishing to teach preschool through grade four complete the Multidisciplinary Studies Major with one of the following specializations: ESL (English as a Second Language), Special Education, Reading or any other major available at HBU. The specialization involves twelve semester hours beyond Smith College and the Multidisciplinary Studies Major coursework. The ESL and Generic Special Education specialization result in supplemental certifications in these areas. The field-based EC-4 program provides practical preparation for teaching.

Requirements

A cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher on 54 or more hours, successful completion of the math and writing sections of the TASP, and a 260 or higher on the reading section of the TASP are required to begin the program.

The program includes:

(1) Courses in the various subject areas in which elementary school teachers are asked to provide instruction: reading, language arts, social studies, math, and science.

(2) Courses in human growth and development, curriculum, instructional techniques, classroom management, working with special populations (special education, gifted, ESL, etc.) and evaluation.

(3) Courses focused on early childhood education

(4) Extensive opportunities to work with children in elementary schools culminating in action research and student teaching which involve 13-18 weeks in EC-4 settings, at least 10 weeks of which is full-time.

Specific requirements are listed in the current issue of the Houston Baptist University Bulletin (Course Catalog).

Advantages and opportunities

Course work in the EC-4 program--and the teacher-training programs in general--is field-based. Throughout the program, students develop knowledge and skills through working with students and their teachers in early childhood and elementary school settings.

Houston Baptist University teacher training programs have close ties with area schools and school districts--including ten professional development schools. These provide many practical experiences for students and create employment opportunities after graduation.

State-of-the-art technology resources are available, and students learn to use these to enhance their professional effectiveness--both on campus and in the professional development and technology schools.

After graduation

There is a high demand for elementary school teachers throughout the state. Most graduates of the interdisciplinary studies program are employed in Houston area schools.

For more information, contact

Linda Brupbacher, Ed.D.
EC-4 Programs
Phone: (281) 649-3000, ext. 2469
E-mail: lbrupbacher@hbu.edu

Undergraduate Programs