RockhuRst univeRsity 2012–2014 catalog

In accordance with the Rockhurst University commitment to learning, leadership,and service in the Jesuit tradition, the Department of Education Conceptual Frameworkemphasizes three interrelated themes of Jesuit education: a tripartite focus on moral reflection,teaching for social justice, and the liberal treatment of subject matter. These themesof Jesuit education and their significance for our programs are aligned with the 11 MissouriStandards for Teacher Education Programs (MoSTEP) and the three crosscuttingthemes of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC) quality principles: graduatesknow their subject matter, graduates have pedagogical knowledge, and graduateshave caring teaching skills. In addition, the Department of Education maintains a twelfthstandard based on our Conceptual Framework, focusing on student learning and masteryof the ethical and moral dimensions of teaching. We are committed to the RockhurstUniversity tradition of preparing men and women for service to others. In accord withthe teachings of St. Ignatius, this service enables one to become more fully human and,hence, more fully divine.Governing AuthorityThe bachelor level teacher education programs offered by the Rockhurst UniversityDepartment of Education are approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary andSecondary Education (DESE). The bachelor level teacher education programs are accreditednationally by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC). The bacheloreducation programs operate according to the general administrative policies governingundergraduate studies at Rockhurst University. Education program requirements listedin this catalog are subject to revision at any time based on changes in state certificationrequirements.The Rockhurst University education program provides the necessary professionaleducation coursework to meet initial teacher certification requirements in elementary,middle school, or secondary education in Missouri. The program focuses on curriculum,instruction, and assessment.Areas of CertificationUpon successful completion of one of the education programs, teacher candidates meetthe Missouri and Rockhurst requirements for the profession of education. Teacher candidatespursuing the elementary education degree receive the generalist background providedby a major in elementary education, with an emphasis on literacy. Teacher candidatespursuing middle school or secondary education complete a major in middle schoolor secondary education, as well as a major in their chosen certification area. Because ofthe significant number of Missouri state certification requirements, it is important thatteacher candidates seek advisement from the Department of Education early in theiracademic careers.NOTE: Requirements listed in this catalog are open to revision based onchanges in state certification requirements. A current listing of requirementsmay be found in the Compendium of Missouri Certification Requirementsat http://www.dese.mo.gov/schoollaw/rulesregs/EducCertManual/Index/htmSchool of Graduate & Professional StudiesUndergraduate Programs185