The Bachelor of Science program of study offers an academic major in Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent. Successful completion of this major leads to the Bachelor of Science degree and an initial TN teaching license for grades K-6. The major is a comprehensive program of study that includes a general education core, the academic major and a professional education core that prepares an exceptional instructional teacher leader capable of meeting the academic and developmental needs of all K-6 students. The Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent academic major provides candidates sufficient opportunities to develop as exceptional instructional leaders who possess the necessary content and pedagogical knowledge and skills and professional dispositions to be successful beginning elementary teachers.

In addition to college educational experiences, the Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent program of study capitalizes on inquiry to advance candidates’ professional growth and career opportunities and to cultivate their ability to think critically, to communicate effectively and to apply knowledge wisely. Through contemporary modes of delivery, the innovative and research-based curriculum exposes candidates to diverse perspectives and skills essential to independent and continuous learning. Candidates experience sequential field experiences, professional development workshops and a clinical practice in enhanced student teaching. Candidates provide assistance to classroom teachers, participate in student tutoring, provide classroom instruction and assessment, and participate in school improvement planning and action research. During student teaching, candidates experience an in-depth exposure to K-6 teaching and learning and are required to use data to demonstrate the effect their teaching had on student learning. Candidates complete a Program Exit Interview and utilize a Professional Portfolio to demonstrate program goal achievement. The Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent program of study meets state, national and professional standards and supports local, regional, and national employment needs.

Bachelor of Science Teacher Education Licensure Program

South College is approved by the Tennessee State Board of Education to offer an elementary education program that leads to an initial Tennessee elementary education teaching license for grades K-6. New students accepted to South College declare Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent as their academic major and are assigned an education advisor. The advisor and student collaborates and develops an academic plan that allows the student to progress through four program levels while simultaneously completing course work in general education, the academic major and the professional education core. Teacher education students are provided a Teacher Education Handbook that specifically outlines and describes all program requirements in Assessment Levels I – IV. As noted in level descriptions below, candidates are approved for formal admission to the Teacher Education Program during Levels II or III when all requirements are satisfied. Formal admission to the Teacher Education Program allows candidates to advance to Level IV – Enhanced Student Teaching. Upon successful completion of Level IV requirements and all graduation requirements, candidates are eligible to complete the application process for the initial Tennessee teaching license in elementary education for grades K-6. South College School of Education reserves the right to make immediate changes to the Teacher Education Program and the Interdisciplinary Studies in Development and Learning of the Child and Young Adolescent program of study as mandated by the Tennessee Department of Education. Candidates seeking out-of-state licensure should contact the respective State Department of Education for information.