B.A. Middle Level Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Middle Level Education at The University of Akron prepares students to become effective educators specializing in teaching early adolescents (grades 4-9). The program focuses on subject-area expertise, instructional strategies, and adolescent development.

Curriculum: The curriculum includes coursework in subject-specific content areas (such as mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies), pedagogical methods, classroom management, and educational psychology. Students learn to design engaging lessons that meet the academic and developmental needs of middle school students.

Research Focus: Students engage in research that explores effective teaching methods, curriculum development, and educational interventions tailored for early adolescents. Research projects may focus on adolescent learning styles, multicultural education, technology integration, and innovative teaching practices.

Industry Engagement: The program collaborates with local middle schools, educators, and educational organizations to provide students with practical teaching experiences through field placements, internships, and student teaching. Students gain hands-on experience in diverse classroom settings under the guidance of experienced educators.

Global Perspective: Courses incorporate global perspectives on education, examining educational systems, cultural diversity in classrooms, and international approaches to middle level education. Students explore global issues in education, comparative educational practices, and strategies for teaching diverse student populations.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 71 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 95.
• SAT: Not required for undergraduate admissions.

The University of Akron (UA) offers a variety of scholarships to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to help alleviate the cost of tuition and support academic excellence. 

Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships at UA are automatically considered for all incoming first-year students. These awards are based on a comprehensive review of the applicant’s academic transcripts, curriculum, and cumulative GPA. 

Williams Honors College Scholarships: First-year, transfer, and continuing students who meet specific academic qualifications can apply for the Williams Honors College Scholarships. These scholarships range from $1,500 to $2,000 and require an application to the Williams Honors College, including an interview. 

Provost’s Scholarships for Transfer Students: These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, are available to students transferring from another regionally accredited college or university. Transfer students are automatically considered for these awards upon applying for admission​.

International Student Scholarship Opportunities: International students can also benefit from various specific scholarships offered by different departments and programs within the university. For instance, the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences offers numerous scholarships for students pursuing majors within their disciplines. These range from awards for academic merit to those supporting specific fields of study​​.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Middle Level Education program at The University of Akron are prepared for fulfilling careers in teaching and educational leadership focused on early adolescents (grades 4-9). 

Middle School Teacher: Many graduates become middle school teachers in public or private schools, specializing in subjects such as mathematics, science, language arts, or social studies. They design and deliver instructional lessons that cater to the academic and developmental needs of early adolescent students.

Curriculum Specialist: Some graduates pursue roles as curriculum specialists or instructional coordinators, where they develop and implement curriculum frameworks, instructional strategies, and educational programs tailored for middle level education.

Educational Administrator: There are opportunities in educational administration, where graduates may work as middle school principals, assistant principals, or department heads. They oversee school operations, curriculum development, teacher evaluation, and student discipline to ensure a positive learning environment.

Special Education Teacher: Graduates with additional certifications or coursework in special education may work as special education teachers in middle schools, providing support and accommodations for students with disabilities or special learning needs.

Instructional Coach or Mentor: Some graduates become instructional coaches or mentors, supporting fellow educators in implementing effective teaching practices, classroom management strategies, and professional development initiatives.

Education Consultant: Graduates can work as education consultants, providing guidance to schools, districts, or educational organizations on curriculum alignment, instructional improvement, and best practices in middle level education.