Lutheran Teacher Education
Bachelor of Arts: Lutheran Teacher Education
Our Lutheran Teacher Education program is specifically intended for those who are called to serve in schools of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. This program will equip you with the education and certification necessary to become a teacher in Lutheran schools at the early childhood, elementary and secondary levels, as well as in special education.
Program Overview
Since 1864, Concordia University Chicago (founded as Addison Teacher’s Seminary) has prepared and equipped educators for Lutheran schools. All of our education programs exceed the requirements of the Illinois State Certification Board and meet rigorous national accreditation standards. Being nationally accredited means you’ll be qualified to serve at one of more than 2,500 Lutheran schools in the United States.
Student teaching is a cornerstone of our program, providing you the opportunity to merge education and theory with classroom practice. Our 16-week student teaching semester is four weeks longer than most programs, providing our graduates with additional experience and confidence.
You also will complete a series of reflection papers and other assignments designed to help you increase your skills for greater teaching effectiveness. As a capstone experience, you will complete and defend a professional portfolio that demonstrates your personal growth and competence as a classroom teacher.
General Course Information
There are four different tracks in the Lutheran teacher education program: early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education. Specific coursework varies based on which degree you choose. Methods classes will teach you how to teach your subject area. Additionally, you will learn how to develop and organize curriculum, and will observe and teach in classrooms throughout the program. Your coursework will teach you how to work with diverse populations, and how to think critically to solve problems that may arise in the classroom.
Opportunities
Concordia’s location provides numerous opportunities for students to observe and teach in both public and private schools, and in special education and multicultural settings throughout Chicago and its suburbs.
We offer extensive graduate-level programs in education, with options for advanced degrees and additional certificates—supporting your professional development needs throughout your teaching career.