Education Graduate Programs — SGCS

Jonathan Bartling, Ph.D., Director

The Graduate Programs in Education are designed to facilitate professional growth for those interested in becoming teachers and those who are currently in the field looking to advance their education. All of the graduate programs blend theoretical doctrine and practical experience with a “Christian Purpose” as the foundation. The programs are infused with current and best practices, including technological resources required for participation in a global society. All of the programs are aligned with state and national standards. To meet the needs of the adult learner, the programs are presented in an accelerated format. This allows for degree completion within a two-year span.

The graduate education programs are directly linked to the School of Education. As part of that unit, all of the graduate education programs focus on “Professionals Influencing Lives” through the development of a solid academic foundation, professionalism, curriculum development, instructional methodology, student, program, and school evaluation; and Christ-centered character.

Beyond the academic preparation provided through the educational programs, pre-service teachers and practicing teachers engage in reflective thinking and writing; assessing their dispositions for teaching and leading; enhance problem solving and decision making skills as individuals and through collaborative relationships; and broaden their scope and skills on how to effectively facilitate learning for the diverse needs of today’s Pre-K-12 student population.

Teaching: Certification

Each public school teacher is required by law to hold a valid certificate issued by the state in which he or she teaches.

To obtain Illinois certification by entitlement, an Olivet graduate must have completed one of Olivet's state-approved Teacher Education programs, all of which meet the minimum Illinois requirements. Illinois standards currently state that "all professional education and content- area coursework that form part of an application for certification, endorsement, or approval must be passed with a grade no lower than 'C' or better."