The University of Northwestern is approved by the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) to offer programs leading to teacher licensure in the state of Minnesota. Students may major in one of ten teacher education programs:
- Early Childhood Education (Birth - Grade 3)
- Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
- Communication Arts/Literature Education (Grades 5-12)
- Mathematics Education (Grades 5-12)
- Social Studies Education (Grades 5-12)
- English as a Second Language (Grades K-12)
- Music Education (Grades K-12) with specialization in Instrumental and Classroom
Vocal and Classroom
- Physical Education (Grades K-12) with specialization in Physical Education (Grades K-12)
Physical Education (Grades K-12) and Health (Grades 5-12)
- Spanish Education (Grades K-12)
- Visual Arts Education (Grades K-12)
Licensure endorsements are available in the following fields:
- Middle Level Communication Arts/Literature (Grades 5-8)
- Middle Level Mathematics (Grades 5-8)
- Middle Level Social Studies (Grades 5-8)
- Preprimary (Ages 3-5)
In addition, non-licensure minors are available in the following fields:
- Child Development
- Coaching (Available through Department of Physical Education, Health & Kinesiology)
- Health Education
- Physical Education
- Special Education
For persons holding a bachelor's degree, post-baccalaureate licensure programs are offered. However, all courses are offered at the undergraduate level.
Students who successfully complete a teacher licensure program at Northwestern are eligible to apply for Minnesota teacher licensure allowing them to seek employment in either public or private schools. All teacher education programs seek to develop graduates who demonstrate the qualities identified in Northwestern’s Mission Statement and Conceptual Framework.