BS in Early Childhood (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

An increasing emphasis on early childhood education programs, and a general movement toward universal preschool education, will increase the importance of and demand for teachers with expertise in this critical area of teaching and development. This relevant and robust degree program is designed for individuals seeking knowledge and skills in the field of early childhood development and teaching. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood. The degree program has embedded practicum experiences throughout the coursework, requires a student teaching component, and, upon approval, will lead to a teaching credential in Arizona. Teacher candidates are required to complete their internship experiences in a K-3 classroom. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the tools, techniques, and knowledge needed to successfully motivate, develop and educate children from birth to Grade 3.

BS in Elementary Education - Early Childhood (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Early Childhood (Eligible for Institutional Recommendation) program is designed for students interested in the education of children in grades K-8, and for those who are seeking teacher certification. The format and courses of this regionally accredited and Arizona-approved program are designed to maximize the content knowledge that the teacher candidate will possess upon graduation. Courses are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, philosophy, methodology, and curriculum development. All courses are directly aligned with the Arizona Professional Teacher Standards and the Interstate New Teacher Support and Assessment Consortium Standards.

Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within many of the courses guide students through over 100 hours of observational and practice based experiences, and the final semester of the program includes a full-time, 16-week student teaching component. These educational settings must be state certified environments and mentor teachers must be fully certified. Teacher candidates are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. Furthermore, teacher candidates should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog, the Academic Policy Handbook, and an academic counselor to obtain information regarding current policies and procedures inherent in a teacher credentialing program. Graduates of the Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education program are prepared to become informed educators in public and private schools and other settings requiring a teaching credential.

BS in Elementary Education - English (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in English is a program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades K-8, inclusive of elementary and middle school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the English emphasis, the program covers the comprehensive English education for elementary students, including analysis of world and American literature, grammar, linguistics, as well as literary criticism and analysis.

BS in Elementary Education - Math (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Math is a program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades K-8, inclusive of elementary and middle school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the Math emphasis, the program covers the comprehensive Mathematics education for elementary students as well as college algebra, trigonometry and geometry. The curriculum also puts an added emphasis on student understanding, critical thinking and problem solving.

BS in Elementary Education - Science (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Science is a program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades K-8, inclusive of elementary and middle school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the Science emphasis, the program covers the comprehensive Science education for elementary students, including Earth and space science, physical science and life sciences. The curriculum also puts an added emphasis on student understanding, the scientific method, critical thinking, problem solving and the impact of science.

BS in Elementary Education / Special Education (Dual Major) (Online)

This robust and specialized degree program is designed for any individual who seeks an elementary or cross-categorical teaching certificate to teach children with special needs in the K-12 setting. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities, and other physical and cognitive impairments. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences. Teacher candidates must have access to a K-12 special education classroom to complete the program assignments. Teacher candidates must be prepared to complete a full-time, 16-week student teaching component at the end of the program. Eight weeks of student teaching is completed in a regular education setting and 8 weeks is completed in a resource room, self-contained class, or in a special school for students with disabilities. These special education settings must include at least 3 or more of the following disability categories: mental retardation, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, physical/health impairments; and they must be completed with a certified special education teacher. Graduates of this program are prepared to become effective educators in both regular education and special education settings, and to implement individualized educational plans to accommodate the students' various learning, behavioral, and social needs.

BS in Secondary Education - Business Education (Online)

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Business Education is a degree program offered by the College of Education in conjunction with the Ken Blanchard College of Business for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades 7-12, inclusive of middle and high school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the Business Education emphasis, the program surveys a comprehensive range of business subject matter, including economics, accounting, marketing, management, ethics and finance.

BS in Secondary Education - English (Online)

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with an emphasis in English is a degree program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades 7-12, inclusive of middle and high school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the English emphasis, the program examines methods of teaching English in secondary schools, and surveys a comprehensive range of English subject matter, including English literature from the Old English Period through Enlightenment, including Shakespeare; American literature from Colonial Age to Romanticism; 19th and 20th century British and American novels; and English language, grammar and linguistics.

BS in Secondary Education - Math (Online)

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Math is a degree program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades 7-12, inclusive of middle and high school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the Math emphasis, the program examines methods of teaching Mathematics in secondary schools and covers the fundamental concepts of algebra, trigonometry, calculus, analytic geometry, probability and statistics.

BS in Secondary Education - Social Studies (Online)

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Social Studies is a degree program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades 7-12, inclusive of middle and high school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the Social Studies emphasis, the program examines methods of teaching Social Studies in secondary schools, and covers such subjects as United States history, world civilization, comparative government and introductory economics, and geography.

EdD in Organizational Leadership - Instructional Leadership (Online)

This doctoral-level degree program is designed for individuals interested in the Pre-K-12 arena. The program focuses on the real-world challenges and opportunities facing school leaders in the 21st century and is designed to develop the skills required to translate theory into effective, innovative leadership practices and to sustain continuous school improvement measures. The program is aligned with the standards of the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC). Participants who choose this specialization include those pursuing leadership positions such as principal, director, or superintendent at the district level. This highly relevant and robust curriculum focuses on the major bodies of leadership literature and theory and identifies the most appropriate and effective applications to educational, business and organizational environments. Participants will develop academic and organizational research expertise through the study of statistics and research methodology. The program of study is consistent with Grand Canyon University's mission to develop students who are global citizens, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible leaders. With the Emphasis in Instructional Leadership, course work covers such topics as finance, human resources, operations, change management, decision-making, curriculum and instruction improvement processes, cultural competency, and advocacy. Graduates are equipped with the skills and expertise needed to effectively lead a Pre-K-12 institution in today's complex and rapidly changing educational environment, and plan for its ongoing success.

MA in Teaching - Professional Learning Communities (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

The Master of Arts in Teaching - Professional Learning Communities is a unique program that focuses on the ability of teachers to connect with one another around a topic of interest, using a collaborative structure. Designed for certified elementary and secondary teachers interested in advanced studies in education, the coursework may assist in a teacher’s quest for National Board Certification, but does not guarantee that certification.  Applicants must have a current teaching certificate or evidence of a minimum of one year of teaching experience.

MA in Teaching - Teacher Leadership (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

he Master of Arts in Teaching - Teacher Leadership program is designed for certified elementary and secondary teachers who want to become leaders by improving a school’s structural capacity through staff development. For example, those with the goal of becoming the head of a Mathematics department within a school would be well-suited for this program. Program coursework may assist in a teacher’s quest for National Board Certification, but does not guarantee that certification. Applicants must have a current teaching certificate or evidence of a minimum of one year of teaching experience.

MEd in Curriculum and Instruction - Reading - Elementary Education (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

Improving a student's reading skills is one of the most rewarding roles a teacher can pursue. This cutting-edge degree program is designed for educators who wish to apply theory and educational best practices to the delivery of curriculum, instruction, and assessment in order to improve the reading abilities of their students. The format and courses of this regionally accredited program are tailored to meet the needs of the adult learner and to maximize strengths that students already possess. Courses are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of curriculum and instruction, cognition, emergent literature, linguistics, phonics, and developmental and corrective reading processes. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide participants through observational and practice-based experiences. Students must have access to a K-8 classroom to complete the practicum course and program assignments. Graduates of this program are prepared to become informed educators who can develop and improve the reading skills of today's diverse student populations. Participants in this program must hold a current teaching certificate or have K-8 teaching experience.

MEd in Curriculum and Instruction - Reading - Secondary Education (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

Nothing is more critical to a child's academic, career and social success than their ability to read. This cutting-edge degree program is designed for educators who wish to apply theory and educational best practices to the delivery of curriculum, instructions, and assessment in order to improve the reading abilities of their students. The format and courses of this regionally accredited program are tailored to meet the needs of the adult learner and to maximize strengths that the student already possesses. Courses are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of curriculum and instruction, cognition, emergent literature, linguistics, phonics, and developmental and corrective reading processes. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must have access to a 7-12 classroom to complete the practicum course and program assignments. Graduates of this program are prepared to become informed educators who can develop and improve the reading skills of today's diverse student populations. Participants in this program must hold a current teaching certificate or have 7-12 grade teaching experience.

MEd in Curriculum and Instruction - Technology (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

Technology continues to revolutionize educational effectiveness and accelerate learning. This leading-edge graduate degree program is designed for educators who wish apply technology to improve the success of their students. Courses in this regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of curriculum and instruction, educational applications of technology, interactive design for the classroom and distance learning. With the Technology focus, this program explores learning in the digital age and covers the foundations of technology in education, assessment of technology, strategies for its integration, and proven techniques for its application in learning. Among the subjects explored are productivity software, digital media, multimedia, and distance learning. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guides students through observational and practice based experiences. Participants must hold a current Teaching Certificate or have K-12 experience. In addition, participants must have access to a K-12 classroom to complete the practicum and program assignments. Graduates of this program are prepared to apply educational technology to improve student learning and school performance.

MEd in Early Childhood (IR) (Online)

Leads to Institutional Recommendation Credential

An increasing emphasis on early childhood education programs, and a general movement toward universal preschool education, will increase the importance of and demand for teachers with expertise in this critical area of teaching and development. This next-level degree program is designed for teaching professionals seeking advanced expertise and skills in the field of early childhood development and teaching. Courses cover the foundations, theories and current practices in early childhood education. The curriculum also focuses the instructional methodologies for teaching young children, with specific emphasis on language, math, science, social studies and the arts. In addition, the impact of influences, such as health, safety, nutrition, fitness, family and culture, are all explored. The degree program has embedded practicum experiences throughout the coursework, requires a student teaching component, and, upon approval, will lead to a teaching credential in Arizona. Graduates of this program will have the expertise and skills needed to facilitate and improve the development and education of young children from birth to Grade 3.

MEd in Early Childhood Education (No IR) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation

The Master of Education in Early Childhood Education is a program for students seeking knowledge and expertise in the field of early childhood development and teaching. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards form the foundation of this program. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood.

MEd in Education Administration (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

A sharp increase in responsibilities of educational administrators has simultaneously made the job more important and more challenging. This rigorous and relevant degree program is designed for any individual interested in Educational Administration in the K-12 setting who is seeking an administrative certificate. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of school leadership, administrative foundations, organizational theory, K-12 legal issues, public school finance, curriculum development, and instructional leadership. The curriculum examines the best practice methods for educational administration, leadership, principalship and school improvement. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must complete a part-time, 8-week administrative internship component at the end of the program. Enrollment in this program requires documentation of 3 years of certified teaching experience. Graduates of the program are prepared to become informed and effective educational administrators in public and private schools and other settings requiring an administrative credential.

MEd in Education Administration - Organizational Leadership (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

This next-level educational degree program is designed for any individual interested in the administration of educational and social services for children in the Grade K-12 setting, but who must postpone a school site-based administrative internship, or who does not choose to seek a K-12 administrative certificate. The format and courses of the regionally accredited program are tailored to meet the needs of the adult learner and to maximize the content knowledge that the student already possesses. Courses are taught by expert practitioners in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational leadership, administrative foundations, organizational theory, legal issues, public school finance, curriculum development, and instructional leadership.

Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must have access to a school or children's social services setting to complete the program assignments. Participants must have a current K-12 teaching certificate. Graduates of the program are prepared to become educational leaders in the home, church, private schools, and other settings not requiring an administrative credential. Graduates are also prepared to move into an administrative internship/credentialing component with Grand Canyon University at a later date.

MEd in Elementary Education (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

This current and comprehensive degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children in the Grades K-8 setting, but who must postpone student teaching, or who does not choose to seek a teaching certificate. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, reading strategies, teaching methods, and curriculum development. The program covers a range of relevant subjects, including classroom engagement and management, learners with diverse needs, and curriculum planning and assessment for the fundamental K-8 areas of learning. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must have access to a K-8 classroom to complete the program assignments. Graduates of this program are prepared to become informed and effective educators in the home, church, private schools, and other settings not requiring a teaching credential. Participants are also prepared to move into a student teaching/credentialing component with Grand Canyon University should they wish to change to the Eligible version of the program prior to the posting of their degree.

MEd in Elementary Education (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

This current and comprehensive degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children in Grades K-8, and who is seeking teacher certification. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and an academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, reading strategies, teaching methods, and curriculum development. The program covers a range of relevant subjects, including classroom engagement and management, learners with diverse needs, and curriculum planning and assessment for the fundamental K-8 areas of learning. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within many of the courses guide students through over 130 hours of observational experiences, and the final semester of the program includes a full-time, 16-week student teaching component. All courses are directly aligned with the Arizona Professional Teacher Standards and the Interstate New Teacher Support and Assessment Consortium Standards. Graduates of this program are prepared to become informed and effective K-8 educators in public and private schools and other settings requiring a teaching credential.

MEd in Secondary Education (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

This current and applicable degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children in the Grade 7-12 setting, but who must postpone student teaching or who does not choose to seek a teaching certificate. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, reading strategies, teaching methods and curriculum development. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice based experiences. Participants must have access to a Grade 7-12 classroom to complete the program assignments. Participants must have a minimum of 24 units in a content area commonly taught in public Grade 7-12 schools to be admitted to the program. Graduates of the program are prepared to become informed and effective educators in the home, church, private schools and other settings not requiring a teaching credential. Graduates are also prepared to move into a student teaching/credentialing component with Grand Canyon University at a later date.

MEd in Secondary Education (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

his current and applicable degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children in the Grade 7-12 setting who is seeking a teaching certificate. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, reading strategies, teaching methods, and curriculum development. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program.

Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice based experiences. Participants must have access to a Grade 7-12 classroom to complete the program and practicum assignments. Assignments within many of the courses guide students through over 140 hours of observational experiences, and the final semester of the program includes a full-time, 16-week student teaching component. Participants must have a minimum of 24 units in a content area commonly taught in public Grade 7-12 schools to be admitted to the program. Graduates of the program are prepared to become informed and effective educators in public and private schools and other settings requiring a teaching credential.

MEd in Special Education (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

Educational reforms and legislation regarding individuals with learning disabilities will contribute to an increased demand for Special Education Teachers. This cross-categorical degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children with special needs in the K-12 setting, but who must postpone student teaching, or who does not seek a teaching certificate. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities, and other physical and cognitive impairments. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide teacher candidates through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must have access to a K-12 special education classroom to complete the program assignments. Graduates of the program are prepared to work with special needs populations and implement individualized educational plans to accommodate the students' various learning needs. Participants are also prepared to move into a student teaching/credentialing component with Grand Canyon University should they wish to change to the Eligible version of the program prior to the posting of their degree.

MEd in Special Education (With IR and Cert.) (Online)

Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Credential

Educational reforms and legislation regarding individuals with learning disabilities will contribute to an increased demand for Special Education Teachers. This cross-categorical degree program is designed for any individual interested in the education of children with special needs in the K-12 setting, and who seek a teaching certificate. Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs. Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities, and other physical and cognitive impairments. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide teacher candidates through observational and practice-based experiences. Participants must have access to a K-12 special education classroom to complete the program assignments. The classroom setting must have at least 3 of the 5 following disability categories represented: emotional disability, learning disability, mental retardation, physical impairment, and/or health impairment. Participants must complete a full-time, 16-week student teaching component at the end of the program with a certified special education teacher. Graduates of the program are prepared to be effective special needs teachers who can implement individualized educational plans to accommodate various learning needs.

MEd in Special Education - Certified Special Educators (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

Educational reforms and legislation regarding individuals with learning disabilities will contribute to an increased demand for Special Education Teachers with greater expertise and skills. This next-level degree program is designed for any individual interested in advanced studies in special education who is currently certified to teach special education. Courses in this regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of learning disabilities, mental retardation, emotional and physical disabilities, and other physical and cognitive impairments. The curriculum provides current best practice strategies for teaching special needs students, along with a broad range of relevant topics, including special education program development, inclusion and collaborative practices, and assistive technology. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice based experiences. Participants must have access to a K-12 special education classroom to complete the program assignments. Graduates of the program will be prepared to effectively work with special needs populations and implement individualized educational plans to accommodate various learning requirements of students with special needs.

MEd in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (No IR, No Cert.) (Online)

Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation/Non-Credential

An increasing number of residents and immigrants who need to learn or improve their English skills will fuel an enormous need for more and more qualified teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). This high-demand degree program is designed for certified teachers or administrators with an interest in teaching ESL students in the classroom or serving as a district ESL coordinator.

Courses in this regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of linguistics, second language acquisition, and curriculum development. The curriculum covers the foundations of instruction for English language learners and the best-practice methods of teaching English and grammar to speakers of other languages. Courses include an in-depth examination of English linguistics, teaching in a pluralistic society, language and reading acquisition, and curriculum development and assessment. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program, but particularly in a TESOL practicum that guides students through observational and practice-based experiences. Graduates of the program are prepared to become leaders in the ESL/TESOL initiatives districts must undertake in an ever-increasing climate of student diversity.