Masters of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a...
B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching
Richmond, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Secondary Education and Teaching program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is designed to prepare students for careers as secondary school teachers. This program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on teaching experiences to equip students with the pedagogical knowledge, instructional strategies, and content expertise needed to effectively teach students in grades 6-12. Through a combination of coursework, field experiences, and student teaching placements, students develop the skills to engage diverse learners, create dynamic learning environments, and foster academic growth and critical thinking skills in their students.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching program at VCU is comprehensive and aligned with state and national standards for teacher education. Core courses cover topics such as educational psychology, adolescent development, curriculum design, instructional methods, assessment and evaluation, classroom management, and subject-specific content areas. Students choose a content area concentration in subjects such as mathematics, English/language arts, science, social studies, or foreign languages, and complete coursework in their chosen discipline. They also participate in practicum experiences in secondary school settings, where they observe experienced teachers, work with individual students and small groups, and gradually assume teaching responsibilities under the supervision of mentor teachers. The program culminates in a student teaching internship, during which students gain hands-on teaching experience in a real secondary school classroom.
Research Focus: Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to advancing research in education and improving teaching practices. Faculty members in the B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching program engage in research across various areas of education, including curriculum development, instructional technology, educational equity and diversity, adolescent literacy, STEM education, and teacher professional development. Students may have the opportunity to participate in faculty-led research projects, collaborate with local schools and community organizations, or conduct action research in their own classrooms. Through research experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, reflective practice, and evidence-based decision-making abilities that enhance their effectiveness as educators.
Industry Engagement: The B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching program at VCU maintains strong connections with local school districts, educational agencies, and professional organizations to provide students with opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. The program collaborates with partner schools to offer field experiences, clinical placements, and student teaching opportunities that allow students to apply their learning in authentic educational settings. Students also have access to workshops, seminars, conferences, and networking events organized by professional organizations, such as the National Council of Teachers of English, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and the National Science Teachers Association, to stay current on educational trends and best practices.
Global Perspective: In today's interconnected world, educators must be prepared to teach diverse student populations and address global issues in the classroom. The B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching program at VCU emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in education. Students learn about cultural diversity, global citizenship, and multicultural education, and explore strategies for creating inclusive learning environments that respect and celebrate students' backgrounds and experiences. Through coursework, field experiences, and multicultural education initiatives, students develop intercultural competence, cross-cultural communication skills, and a deeper understanding of global issues that impact teaching and learning.
Location
Richmond, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 37588
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 80
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 70 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.
International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.
VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.
VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.
VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.
VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.
Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.
External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.
It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Secondary Education and Teaching program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers in the field of education. This program prepares students to become effective secondary school teachers, equipped with the pedagogical knowledge, content expertise, and practical skills needed to engage and inspire students in grades 6-12.
High School Teacher: Graduates of the B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching program are qualified to work as high school teachers in public and private schools. They teach specific subjects, such as mathematics, English/language arts, science, social studies, foreign languages, or the arts, to students in grades 9-12. High school teachers develop engaging lesson plans, deliver instruction, assess student learning, and provide support and guidance to help students succeed academically and prepare for college and careers.
Middle School Teacher: Some graduates may choose to work as middle school teachers, teaching students in grades 6-8 in subject-specific classrooms. Middle school teachers play a critical role in supporting students' academic and social-emotional development during the transitional years of early adolescence. They create interdisciplinary lesson plans, differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs, and cultivate a positive classroom culture that promotes collaboration, inquiry, and critical thinking skills.
Special Education Teacher: Graduates with additional coursework or certification in special education may pursue careers as special education teachers in secondary schools. Special education teachers work with students who have disabilities or special learning needs, providing individualized instruction, accommodations, and support services to help students access the curriculum and achieve their academic goals. They collaborate with general education teachers, support staff, and families to develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and ensure that all students receive a high-quality education in the least restrictive environment.
ESOL/ELL Teacher: Some graduates may choose to specialize in teaching English to speakers of other languages (ESOL) or English language learners (ELL) in secondary school settings. ESOL/ELL teachers provide language instruction and support to students who are learning English as an additional language, helping them develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. They design culturally responsive lessons, scaffold instruction, and use instructional technology to facilitate language acquisition and academic success for English language learners.
Curriculum Developer/Instructional Coach: Graduates may pursue careers as curriculum developers, instructional coaches, or educational consultants, working with school districts, educational agencies, or nonprofit organizations to support teacher professional development, improve instructional practices, and enhance student learning outcomes. Curriculum developers design and evaluate curriculum materials, instructional resources, and assessment tools aligned with state and national standards. Instructional coaches provide training, coaching, and mentoring to teachers, helping them implement evidence-based instructional strategies and integrate technology into their teaching practices.
Educational Administrator: Some graduates may choose to pursue leadership roles in education, such as school administrators or educational leaders. With additional coursework or advanced degrees, they may become principals, assistant principals, curriculum coordinators, or district-level administrators, responsible for overseeing school operations, instructional programs, and staff development initiatives. Educational administrators work collaboratively with teachers, parents, students, and community stakeholders to create safe, inclusive learning environments and promote educational excellence for all students.
