Course Overview!

Ball State University's online Transition to Teaching program is designed for career changers who wish to become educators. The program prepares students for teaching roles in early childhood, elementary, or secondary education. It's a nationally recognized program, fully accredited, and taught by the same professors who teach on the main campus. The program is 100% online, except for student teaching and field experiences, which take place in Indiana schools under the supervision of a Teachers College faculty member. A scholarship of up to $10,000 is available to eligible students, requiring a five-year teaching commitment in an Indiana school after graduation. The program emphasizes practical skills and pedagogical approaches needed to succeed in a classroom environment, aligning with current educational standards and best practices. The program is designed to be completed in four consecutive semesters, allowing students to transition to a teaching career quickly.

Course Structure

The Transition to Teaching program curriculum focuses on developing pedagogical skills and knowledge across various educational levels including Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education. The curriculum is designed in a comprehensive manner to effectively prepare students for the Indiana teaching licensure examination and classroom teaching responsibilities. Courses cover a wide range of subjects including child development, curriculum design and lesson planning, classroom management, educational theories, assessment methods, and specialized subject matter expertise aligned with the chosen teaching level (Early Childhood, Elementary or Secondary). Special attention is given to practical application through student teaching and fieldwork, providing hands-on experience in real classroom settings under the guidance of experienced mentors from Ball State Teachers College. The program also includes coursework on technology integration in the classroom and how to effectively utilize technology to enhance the learning experience. This comprehensive approach to teacher preparation ensures successful transition from other careers into the field of education.