B.S. in Middle Level Education

Inspire the Next Generation of Learners

The Middle Level Education program at Saint Xavier University prepares candidates to teach select content areas to young adolescents from fifth- through eighth-grade in the core content areas of language arts, mathematics, social science or general science. Through student teaching experience, fieldwork observation, and other opportunities to apply theory to practice, candidates will engage in an interactive and dynamic learning experience that will enable them to deliver a high-impact instructional experience to their future students. The Middle Level Education program integrates courses and field experiences that will prepare students to teach in a variety of educational settings, including public and private schools.

Why Earn Your B.S. in Middle Level Education?

The education profession is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling careers. Teachers serve as the cornerstone of a child's educational journey through their development as they become critical thinkers and problem solvers.

Student writing in class

About the Program

The Middle Level Education program consists of general education and professional education courses that address requirements for graduation and State of Illinois requirements for licensure. Middle Level Education candidates will be concurrently enrolled in professional education coursework and field/practicum experiences designed to reinforce concepts and skills learned in the classroom. The field/practicum experience blocks are designed to provide opportunities for candidates to apply course concepts in authentic environments. Required activities and assignments provide candidates with the opportunity to connect theory and practice and prepare candidates for daily classroom responsibilities. Middle Level Education teacher candidates will observe and participate in a wide range of in-classroom teaching experiences to develop the skills and confidence necessary to be effective teachers. The Middle Level Education practicum and student teaching/clinical practice experiences have been designed as a serious apprenticeship that requires teacher candidates to spend one academic year inside schools working alongside veteran middle level teachers. All candidates for licensure are required to successfully pass state-mandated examinations before licensure is granted. Students must attempt the content area exam before their student teaching semester (www.il.nesinc.com) and must earn a minimum grade of C in all coursework.

Through collaborative projects, peer engagement, and reflective seminars, students develop critical thinking and teaching competencies to ensure that our future educators are well-equipped to succeed in diverse and dynamic classroom settings.

SXU is dedicated to shaping educators who excel in today's dynamic classrooms. The Middle Level Education program is designed to equip students with a deep knowledge base, essential skills, and a mindset of continuous inquiry. We foster the development of professional dispositions that embrace diversity and inclusion, ensuring our graduates are prepared to meet the needs of all learners.

At the undergraduate level, Saint Xavier University is one of the seven largest providers of teachers in Illinois. Saint Xavier University's Education Division has a long and successful history of preparing students for careers in teaching with a curriculum that guides teacher candidates to become scholars, lifelong learners, leaders, and reflective practitioners. Rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy, our mission emphasizes compassion, service, and social justice. As a student in our Education Division, you'll be inspired to integrate these values into your teaching practice, making a meaningful impact on your students and community. You'll learn to educate with empathy, advocate for equity, and lead with a heart committed to service.

SXU offers a variety of education endorsements designed to expand the expertise of teacher candidates and practicing educators. Among these are endorsements in Special Education and English as a Second Language (ESL), which require 18 credit hours to complete.

At Saint Xavier University, our Middle Level Education program is designed to prepare you to inspire and educate the next generation of young learners. Specializing in core content areas such as language arts, mathematics, social sciences, and general science, you'll be fully equipped to teach students in grades 5-8. Through hands-on learning, expert faculty, and real-world teaching experiences, you'll gain the skills and confidence to make a lasting impact in the classroom.