The major for future elementary and middle school teachers has a new home.
San Diego State University’s (SDSU) Liberal Studies major is now part of the College of Education. The transition became official this fall.
The decision to move the major was the result of the recent reorganization of the Division of Undergraduate Studies. SDSU officials felt the major would be a better fit in the College of Education, specifically the School of Teacher Education.
“The major prepares students for a K-8 teaching credential program,” said Sharon Bendall, Liberal Studies Program coordinator. “Being in the School of Teacher Education makes a nice tight tie.”
Now Liberal Studies students are housed within the College of Education making it easier for students to familiarize themselves with all of the programs, faculty and staff in the College.
“It allows us to have a tighter connection between our students and the faculty,” Bendall added.
The Liberal Studies major is designed for future elementary and middle school teachers. It prepares students for a regular multiple-subjects credential or other teaching credentials. These credentials include special education and a multiple-subjects credential in bilingual education.
Liberal Studies courses meet California’s education standards and are excellent preparation for the multiple subjects in the California Subject Examinations for Teachers exam, a requirement for admission to California’s elementary education credential programs. Courses also provide multiple opportunities for students to gain field experience in various settings.
The Liberal Studies major is th 15th largest of 100 undergraduate majors at SDSU. About 550 students are currently enrolled in the program and about 150 to 200 complete it every year.
Why is the major so popular?
The main reason is that currently there is a high demand for teachers in California.
“Lots of people want to be teachers,” Bendall explained. “After they earn their teaching credentials, our students will be looking for jobs in a very hot job market.”
If you want to share your experience with the Liberal Studies Program, the College of Education is interested in hearing from former students. If you graduated from the program, please send an email on how the program prepared you for your future career.
