Our Commitment to Education
Equipping the students of today to tackle the challenges of tomorrow
For over 140 years, William Woods University has been training teachers and supplying highly-prepared education leaders to the Missouri school system and beyond.
Learning is a lifelong process. And as you prepare to lead those in your classrooms, schools, and districts in becoming life-long learners themselves, we encourage you to never cease in your quest for professional growth.
As an undergraduate — whether you are pursuing a career in elementary, middle-level, secondary or special education — you will craft your teaching technique through student-centered coursework, application of learning, group-based activity and the ability to reflect on and improve your practice.
You may choose to train as an educational leader through one of our graduate degrees, practicing research and theory in organizational and leadership development, communicating ideas through writing and speaking, and collaborate with other professionals in the field.
Immerse yourself in a learning environment focused on knowledge, experience and reflection as you join the company of Missouri’s leading education professionals committed to boosting student achievement in our state and our nation.
Leading education at every level
Our range of degree choices is comprehensive and designed to equip you for any professional path in education.
Pursue a bachelor’s in elementary education with an early childhood concentration. Study middle-level or secondary education and specialize in subject areas such as Social Science, English, Science, Math, Biology, History, Physical Education, Speech and Theatre or Art. Or pursue a degree in special education or educational studies.
Through the connections formed in our graduate education programs — whether it be in Educational Leadership, Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, Athletics and Administration or something else — you will join our many graduates as they consistently rise to higher level leadership positions within school districts and at the collegiate level.
You will find our alumni serving in school districts throughout Missouri and the U.S.
William Woods is the largest certifier of school leaders in Missouri
The William Woods difference
Ranked among the nation’s top online learning programs, William Woods offers flexible, 8-week courses for education students. That, in combination with evening classes offered through cohorts around the state, allows William Woods students to pursue advanced education degrees at their convenience.
Undergraduate Education Programs
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Middle-Level Education
- Secondary Education Degrees
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Education with Special Education Certification
- Minor in Education
Online Education Programs
- Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership (EdD)
- Online Education Specialist (EdS) in Curriculum Leadership
- Online Education Specialist (Eds) in Educational Leadership
- Online Master of Education (MEd) in Athletics/Activities Administration
- Online Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction
- Online Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership
- Online Master of Education (MEd) in Equestrian Education
- Online Master of Education (MEd) in Reading Instruction
Special Opportunities
Take advantage of unique opportunities to get involved on campus. Craft your teaching techniques, expand your professional network, and collaborate and learn from peers, mentors and professors whose passions match yours.
- Complete several service-learning activities during education courses, such as math fairs, tutoring, health fairs, practical learning labs and more.
- Conduct cutting-edge research alongside active, experienced education leaders.
- Develop solutions to current, complex challenges faced in education.
- Gain experiences in local schools, shadowing and interviewing teachers, as well as student teaching.
- Broaden your understanding of leadership within schools and districts through extensive field experience and fill your professional portfolio.
- Learn from a curriculum that explores content knowledge and pedagogical skills, learning not only what to teach but the nuances of how to teach it effectively.
- Become a Google Certified Educator.
- Learn through curriculum that focuses on leadership, pedagogy, current research and educational trends as you prepare for your certification.
- Join the international honor society in education, Kappa Delta Pi, where teachers and future teachers come together.
Related Education Resources:
- Frameworks, Philosophy, and Standards
- Student Teaching
- Teacher Education Program (TEP)
- Google Certification Option
- Missouri Educator Gateway Assessments (MEGA)
- Missouri Teaching Standards
Perspectives
The Specialist and EdD programs at William Woods University have given me valuable insights into educational writing. The university has honed my ability to plan, develop, and articulate a clear vision, both in writing and leadership. William Woods has not only inspired me to pursue goals for myself and my district that once seemed beyond reach, but has also instilled in me the importance of perseverance and resilience.
—Adam Easterwood, Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, '16 and Current Ed.D. Candidate. Superintendent of Leeton R-X School District
Learning doesn't stop after you leave the doors of the education department. Professors still keep in contact with me about my teaching styles and new techniques to use in my classroom.
—Shannon Barnard, B.S. in Elementary Education and M.Ed. in Education Administration, ’12. Elementary teacher at Jefferson City Public School, Jefferson City, MO.
I could not imagine going anywhere else and getting an education and life lessons that are so meaningful towards my future.
—Taylor Oestreich, B.S. in Education with Special Education Certification, ’14.