Learning is active, engaging and collaborative. Learning is not passive, stagnant or solitary. In the Department of Education, we teach future teachers and leaders. Our undergraduate and graduate degree programs prepare you to teach in elementary, middle and high schools in public and private schools. Teaching and Learning Sciences Educator Training Our goal is to train students to become knowledgeable, competent, ethical professionals in their fields who are able to bring Christian ethics, values, and worldview to their workplaces. To this end, our goal is to provide learning experiences that: include coursework that meets or exceeds the state standards for academic knowledge in each discipline offer opportunities to develop levels of skills necessary for entering the professional arena and performing with excellence emphasize critical thinking, utilization of resources, and the ability to work independently and cooperatively impart the importance of professionalism, integrity, values-centered work, and lifelong learning and development Our department gives you practical, cutting-edge professional learning. It is: Field-based: You will work with children in schools throughout the program (not just at the end, or for one or two semesters). Technology-rich: You will experience a wide range of technology-based learning activities in your courses, and you’ll learn to effectively and creatively use technology as an educator – not just in one technology course, but throughout each program. Personal: You will develop lasting relationships with your professors in our small classes. Professors become professional mentors – not just while you are at HCU, but throughout your educational careers. Focused on Best Practice: Because our faculty practice what they teach (evidence-based practice), students learn to teach well from how they are taught as well as what they are taught. Respected: Our close ties with area schools and our reputation for excellence provides hiring advantages when you graduate and apply for jobs. Our award-winning faculty are talented, compassionate, experienced educators who are: Leaders in the profession, serving as officers and board members of professional organizations Active in local schools, serving on advisory boards, consulting and providing professional learning sessions Presenters at local, state, national and international conferences Authors of curriculum for districts, journal articles, monographs and book chapters Our graduates have become leaders in their schools and school districts. They have made a difference in the lives of children, and they have received recognition as outstanding educators. They have gone on to be principals, curriculum specialists, school counselors, diagnosticians, superintendents and university professors. Educational Leadership and Higher Education Graduate Leadership Programs We four graduate programs with coursework leading to Educational Administration (MEd), Higher Education (MEd), Doctorate of Education in Executive Educational Leadership (EdD), and Doctorate of Education in Special Educational Leadership (EdD). We understand the needs and concerns of graduate students and are able to serve them exclusively. Read more about the degrees offered below. We provide an educational foundation for school administrators who will shepherd children through their formative years, as well as training for careers in higher education, including community colleges and universities. The Doctorate in Executive Educational Leadership prepares students to perform in a variety of executive leadership positions, while the Doctorate in Special Educational Leadership is designed to prepare educational leaders who will have greater knowledge and skill sets needed for the special education field. Amazing Faculty The faculty you will study with here at Houston Christian University are truly remarkable. Our full-time faculty actively participate in clinical work. Our adjunct faculty have terminal degrees and are out there working in the field. All of our faculty care about individual students like you. You are not just a face in a classroom. You are a person who deserves a real relationship with your professors and your fellow students. Our classes are interactive, not passive, and they foster those real relationships that last into your future career. What Next? So why should you choose to study with us? Academic rigor plus great practical training equals hirable graduates! We want you to be the best you can be. Contact us and let’s talk about your goals. Apply now and come help us change the world for the better. Degrees in Education Bachelor's Degrees On campus Art EC-12 with Teacher Certification (BS) Artists with a flair for teaching others may utilize an All-Level Art with Teacher Certification undergraduate degree in order to teach learners in kindergarten through 12th grades. The program covers art methods, and skills associated with two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. On campus Classical Christian Education (BA) The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Christian Education at Houston Christian University prepares educators for careers in classical, Christian, private and charter schools, as well as homeschool cooperatives. This distinctive program weaves together rich coursework from three colleges: the College of Arts and Humanities, the School of Christian Thought and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. On campus Elementary Education with Bilingual Certification (BS) The Elementary Education with Bilingual Certification undergraduate degree trains teachers for effective instructional planning and delivery in the early childhood through sixth-grade setting. A bilingual component qualifies teachers with the special skills and knowledge needed to lead bilingual learners. On campus Elementary Education with ESL (BS) The Elementary Education with ESL undergraduate degree curriculum covers essential reading and math courses, as well as teaching and learning, curriculum, and classroom management. Graduates may teach early childhood through grade 6, and students with exceptionalities at all grade levels. Leads to teacher certification. On campus English, Language Arts & Reading 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in English Language Arts (7-12) with Teacher Certification and ESL qualifies graduates to teach English and language arts-based courses to seventh through 12th-grade students. Learners delve into a thorough scope of the subject, including grammar, writing, literature, reading comprehension and public speaking. On campus Kinesiology with EC-12 Physical Education Teacher Certification (BA) An undergraduate degree in Kinesiology with All-Level Teacher Certification is applicable for teaching students in kindergarten through 12th grades. Learners make ideal coaches, physical education teachers and wellness instructors. The program curriculum includes physiology, coaching principles, and wellness components. On campus Learning, Technology, and Design (BS) HCU’s Bachelor of Science in Learning, Technology, and Design teaches you to master instructional design, effectively integrate education technology, and lead innovation in teaching and learning. On campus Mathematics 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in Mathematical Studies (7-12) with Teacher Certification launches graduates into the important role of teaching mathematical concepts to students in grades seven through 12. Learners cover computative and spatial subjects including algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, statistics and physics. On campus Science 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in Composite Science (7-12) with Teacher Certification develops future science teachers for the seventh through 12th-grade, secondary school environment. Graduates are qualified to teach across a number of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science. On campus Social Studies 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) A Composite Social Studies (7-12) with Teacher Certification undergraduate degree readies graduates to teach social studies classes in the seventh through 12th-grade setting. Program coursework includes teaching-specific training, and studies across history, government, politics and economics. On campus Spanish EC-12 with Teacher Certification (BS) A Spanish with EC-12 Teacher Certification undergraduate degree primes learners to be both knowledgeable and capable teachers for early childhood through 12th-grade students. The program encompasses Spanish reading, writing and speaking proficiency, as well as language acquisition and literary study elements. Master's Degrees On campus Curriculum & Instruction with EC-6 and Bilingual Certification (MEd) Learn curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach in bilingual elementary schools. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL. On campus Curriculum & Instruction with EC-6 and ESL Certification (MEd) Learn curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach elementary education and English as a second language. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL. Online Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) Become an expert at curriculum content development and instructional design methodology. Gain knowledge about school reform, teaching methodology, research and technology integration, and more. Choose from 18 hours of electives in special education, instructional technology or ESL. This online-only program does not lead to certification. On campus Curriculum and Instruction 7-12 Certification with ESL (MEd) Study curriculum and instructional methodology and get certified to teach in secondary schools. Learn about school reform, curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Take electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL. On campus Curriculum and Instruction All-Level Certification in Art, Spanish, Music, or Physical Education (MEd) Gain expertise in curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach all grade levels, with focuses in art, Spanish, music or physical education. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL. Online Educational Administration (MEd) The Master of Education in Educational Administration (MEd) graduate program prepares graduate students for positions as principals or assistant principals in elementary, middle or high schools, and for such district-wide administrative positions as program directorships and supervisor or coordinator positions. The program is designed to enhance students’ abilities in planning, organizing, delegating, supervising, and leading. On campus Educational Diagnostician (MEd) The Master of Education in Educational Diagnostician (MEd) graduate program teaches students statistical design, administration, and interpretation of standardized test batteries, exceptionality eligibility tests, and diagnostic-prescriptive interventions for exceptional learners. Students are prepared for professional certification and gain practical experience doing charitable testing and work for advocacy groups. Online Learning, Technology, and Design (MS) The Learning, Technology, and Design graduate program equips instructional designers and digital specialists with knowledge and skills to bring transformative leadership to academic and professional landscapes. This fully-online program provides students with highly applicable, authentic learning experiences to prepare for employment in educational institutions, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. On campus Online Professional School Counseling (MEd) The Professional School Counseling (MEd) graduate program develops counselors who guide students and parents by facilitating student learning and success in the areas of academic achievement, behavioral, emotional, and social development, and college/career development. This degree prepares students for state certification and employment. Doctoral Degrees On campus Online Executive Educational Leadership (EdD) The Doctor of Education in Executive Educational Leadership graduate program is especially for those in the education field who serve, or will serve, in a supervisory capacity. The program includes an option for Texas superintendent certification. It is ideal for school district, private school, college and university leaders. Online Executive Leadership in Mental Health and Human Services (EdD) This program trains mental health professionals to lead and develop programs for communities. The track provides research and preparation for strategies to prevent and respond to crisis and trauma in communities. It addresses topics such as bullying/cyberbullying, self-injurious behaviors, natural and situational crisis, violence and sexual abuse. On campus Special Education Leadership (EdD) The Doctor of Education in Special Education Leadership graduate program prepares leaders at the highest level for efficacy with special education programs. This degree is applicable in educational and behavioral health settings, and builds ethical leaders who understand the unique needs of individuals with exceptionalities throughout the special education field. Certificates On campus Alternative Teacher Certification Program Begin teaching while earning certification through HCU’s program with its perfect PPR certification exam record. Select from numerous certification areas spanning Early Childhood through Grade 12 while earning income as a full-time teacher. The supervised classroom experience transitions seamlessly to HCU’s Masters program, with credits directly transferable. Online Instructional Design Develop expertise in designing effective digital learning experiences through four courses (12 credits). Gain skills in applying learning theories, creating engaging online content, and integrating emerging technologies. Prepare for careers in educational institutions, corporate training, and other learning environments.
On campus Art EC-12 with Teacher Certification (BS) Artists with a flair for teaching others may utilize an All-Level Art with Teacher Certification undergraduate degree in order to teach learners in kindergarten through 12th grades. The program covers art methods, and skills associated with two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture.
On campus Classical Christian Education (BA) The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Christian Education at Houston Christian University prepares educators for careers in classical, Christian, private and charter schools, as well as homeschool cooperatives. This distinctive program weaves together rich coursework from three colleges: the College of Arts and Humanities, the School of Christian Thought and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences.
On campus Elementary Education with Bilingual Certification (BS) The Elementary Education with Bilingual Certification undergraduate degree trains teachers for effective instructional planning and delivery in the early childhood through sixth-grade setting. A bilingual component qualifies teachers with the special skills and knowledge needed to lead bilingual learners.
On campus Elementary Education with ESL (BS) The Elementary Education with ESL undergraduate degree curriculum covers essential reading and math courses, as well as teaching and learning, curriculum, and classroom management. Graduates may teach early childhood through grade 6, and students with exceptionalities at all grade levels. Leads to teacher certification.
On campus English, Language Arts & Reading 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in English Language Arts (7-12) with Teacher Certification and ESL qualifies graduates to teach English and language arts-based courses to seventh through 12th-grade students. Learners delve into a thorough scope of the subject, including grammar, writing, literature, reading comprehension and public speaking.
On campus Kinesiology with EC-12 Physical Education Teacher Certification (BA) An undergraduate degree in Kinesiology with All-Level Teacher Certification is applicable for teaching students in kindergarten through 12th grades. Learners make ideal coaches, physical education teachers and wellness instructors. The program curriculum includes physiology, coaching principles, and wellness components.
On campus Learning, Technology, and Design (BS) HCU’s Bachelor of Science in Learning, Technology, and Design teaches you to master instructional design, effectively integrate education technology, and lead innovation in teaching and learning.
On campus Mathematics 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in Mathematical Studies (7-12) with Teacher Certification launches graduates into the important role of teaching mathematical concepts to students in grades seven through 12. Learners cover computative and spatial subjects including algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, statistics and physics.
On campus Science 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) An undergraduate degree in Composite Science (7-12) with Teacher Certification develops future science teachers for the seventh through 12th-grade, secondary school environment. Graduates are qualified to teach across a number of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science.
On campus Social Studies 7-12 with Teacher Certification and ESL (BS) A Composite Social Studies (7-12) with Teacher Certification undergraduate degree readies graduates to teach social studies classes in the seventh through 12th-grade setting. Program coursework includes teaching-specific training, and studies across history, government, politics and economics.
On campus Spanish EC-12 with Teacher Certification (BS) A Spanish with EC-12 Teacher Certification undergraduate degree primes learners to be both knowledgeable and capable teachers for early childhood through 12th-grade students. The program encompasses Spanish reading, writing and speaking proficiency, as well as language acquisition and literary study elements.
On campus Curriculum & Instruction with EC-6 and Bilingual Certification (MEd) Learn curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach in bilingual elementary schools. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL.
On campus Curriculum & Instruction with EC-6 and ESL Certification (MEd) Learn curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach elementary education and English as a second language. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL.
Online Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) Become an expert at curriculum content development and instructional design methodology. Gain knowledge about school reform, teaching methodology, research and technology integration, and more. Choose from 18 hours of electives in special education, instructional technology or ESL. This online-only program does not lead to certification.
On campus Curriculum and Instruction 7-12 Certification with ESL (MEd) Study curriculum and instructional methodology and get certified to teach in secondary schools. Learn about school reform, curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Take electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL.
On campus Curriculum and Instruction All-Level Certification in Art, Spanish, Music, or Physical Education (MEd) Gain expertise in curriculum and instructional methodology. Get certified to teach all grade levels, with focuses in art, Spanish, music or physical education. Study curriculum development, teaching methodology, research, and technology integration. Choose electives in educational administration, special education, instructional technology, reading or ESL.
Online Educational Administration (MEd) The Master of Education in Educational Administration (MEd) graduate program prepares graduate students for positions as principals or assistant principals in elementary, middle or high schools, and for such district-wide administrative positions as program directorships and supervisor or coordinator positions. The program is designed to enhance students’ abilities in planning, organizing, delegating, supervising, and leading.
On campus Educational Diagnostician (MEd) The Master of Education in Educational Diagnostician (MEd) graduate program teaches students statistical design, administration, and interpretation of standardized test batteries, exceptionality eligibility tests, and diagnostic-prescriptive interventions for exceptional learners. Students are prepared for professional certification and gain practical experience doing charitable testing and work for advocacy groups.
Online Learning, Technology, and Design (MS) The Learning, Technology, and Design graduate program equips instructional designers and digital specialists with knowledge and skills to bring transformative leadership to academic and professional landscapes. This fully-online program provides students with highly applicable, authentic learning experiences to prepare for employment in educational institutions, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.
On campus Online Professional School Counseling (MEd) The Professional School Counseling (MEd) graduate program develops counselors who guide students and parents by facilitating student learning and success in the areas of academic achievement, behavioral, emotional, and social development, and college/career development. This degree prepares students for state certification and employment.
On campus Online Executive Educational Leadership (EdD) The Doctor of Education in Executive Educational Leadership graduate program is especially for those in the education field who serve, or will serve, in a supervisory capacity. The program includes an option for Texas superintendent certification. It is ideal for school district, private school, college and university leaders.
Online Executive Leadership in Mental Health and Human Services (EdD) This program trains mental health professionals to lead and develop programs for communities. The track provides research and preparation for strategies to prevent and respond to crisis and trauma in communities. It addresses topics such as bullying/cyberbullying, self-injurious behaviors, natural and situational crisis, violence and sexual abuse.
On campus Special Education Leadership (EdD) The Doctor of Education in Special Education Leadership graduate program prepares leaders at the highest level for efficacy with special education programs. This degree is applicable in educational and behavioral health settings, and builds ethical leaders who understand the unique needs of individuals with exceptionalities throughout the special education field.
On campus Alternative Teacher Certification Program Begin teaching while earning certification through HCU’s program with its perfect PPR certification exam record. Select from numerous certification areas spanning Early Childhood through Grade 12 while earning income as a full-time teacher. The supervised classroom experience transitions seamlessly to HCU’s Masters program, with credits directly transferable.
Online Instructional Design Develop expertise in designing effective digital learning experiences through four courses (12 credits). Gain skills in applying learning theories, creating engaging online content, and integrating emerging technologies. Prepare for careers in educational institutions, corporate training, and other learning environments.
