The Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies degree (BAES) program pairs an interdisciplinary foundation of general education courses with an educational studies core that explores learning theory, educational psychology, child development, educating special populations, inclusive learning, curriculum design, designing online learning environments, and best practices in education.
The BAES degree program is designed for those who seek to work with children and young adults in formal and informal learning and educational settings that do not require state licensure/certification. It is a 120-hour program that prepares graduates to teach in private schools, after-school programs; to serve as paraprofessionals in K-12 schools; and to work in other fields such as child advocacy programs, policy marking, government, health care business, and non-profit organizations. The program is delivered in a blended format with most courses offered online.
Educational Studies, B.A. Course Requirements
Students in the BAES degree program will complete a culminating internship in an appropriate venue such as a school setting, state or government agency, health care facility, business, or non-profit organization. The experience, coupled with an internship seminar (TEP 491) offers students structured opportunities to integrate knowledge, practice and reflection in the context of an engaged citizenship experience and meet the university's requirement for engaged learning experience. The Internship will be developed and managed in coordination with the UIS office of Internships and Prior Learning.
All undergraduate students are required to take a minimum of 10 hours of Engaged Citizenship Common Experience (ECCE) course work in the areas of U.S. Communities, Global Awareness, Engagement Experience, and ECCE Speaker Series. Students seeking the BAES degree are required to take IPL 300 as a part of this requirement.
The internship and senior seminar must be taken together during the final semester of course work.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate mastery of content, technological advances, and pedagogical expertise in the content and grade levels in which they teach
- Establish a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for a diverse population of students
- Plan and deliver effective instruction, supported by appropriate technological applications, and create an environment that facilitates learning for all students
- Demonstrate high standards for professional conduct
- Partner, collaborate, and engage with families and/or communities to develop relationships and build networks of support for student success
- Actively advocate for students, families, and schools to support equity and social justice
- Apply research to improve practice and student learning