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Welcome to the Education Program at Southwestern Adventist University
Do you love to inspire others to learn? Consider a career in teaching with our comprehensive education programs.
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Why Education?
Why SWAU?
At Southwestern Adventist University, our Education program equips future teachers with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to thrive in the classroom.
Whether your passion lies in teaching elementary students, high school learners, or specialized subjects like music or physical education, our diverse certification pathways ensure you are prepared to make an impact. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and mentorship, students graduate confident and classroom-ready.
Curriculum and Courses
Our curriculum blends educational theory with practical training. Courses explore classroom management, curriculum development, instructional methods, educational psychology, and subject-specific pedagogy. All students complete student teaching placements and field experiences, providing invaluable real-world classroom exposure before graduation.
Certification Pathways
We offer a variety of degree and certification combinations based on your desired teaching level and subject area:
Elementary Education (BS)
Prepare to teach Kindergarten through 8th grade in self-contained or subject-based classrooms. Students will be eligible to take the State of Texas certification exams and may pursue Adventist credentials.
Secondary & K-12 Certification Programs
These options are for students majoring in content areas who want to teach specific subjects:
- BA in English – Secondary Teaching
- BA in History – Secondary Teaching
- BS in Life Science – Secondary Teaching
- BS in Mathematics – Secondary Teaching
- BA in Social Studies – Secondary Teaching
- BS in Physical Science with Chemistry Emphasis – Secondary Teaching
- Bachelor of Music Education – Secondary Teaching (K–12)
- BS in Physical Education – Secondary Teaching (K–12)
Alternative Certification Program
For individuals who already hold a non-education bachelor’s degree but wish to become certified teachers through an alternate route.
To learn more about Texas and Adventist certification requirements, visit Adventist Education.
Faculty & Mentorship
Our dedicated education faculty bring years of teaching and administrative experience into every classroom. They offer close mentorship, certification guidance, and ongoing support throughout your program.
Meet the Education and Psychology Faculty
Related Programs
Chemistry
English
History
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Psychology
School Guidance
Admission Requirements
To pursue teacher certification at Southwestern Adventist University, candidates must meet the Education Department’s admission requirements, which include academic prerequisites, testing benchmarks, and field experience expectations.
Start Your Process
What can you do with a degree in Education?
Graduates from Southwestern Adventist University’s education programs enter schools prepared to teach, inspire, and lead. Our certification options open doors across all age levels and subject areas, giving you flexibility to align your degree with your passion.
Job Titles to Explore
- Elementary School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- High School Teacher
- Music Educator (K–12)
- Physical Education Teacher (K–12)
- Special Education Teacher
- Educational Administrator
Employment Settings to Explore
- Public Schools
- Private and Parochial Schools
- School Districts
- Education Nonprofits
- Curriculum and Assessment Development
- Church-Based Education
Graduate Study Opportunities
For students considering advanced education careers, Southwestern Adventist University offers two exceptional graduate programs:
Master of Education
Designed for classroom teachers and aspiring administrators, this program builds expertise in educational leadership and curriculum and instruction in literacy. Courses are taught through a Seventh-day Adventist Christian worldview, emphasizing the advancement of holistic education across all types of schools and systems.
Explore the Master of Education Program
Master of Arts in Counseling
This program prepares graduates to become highly skilled counselors in mental health and school settings. Prioritizing performance, research, and service, it reflects SWAU’s commitment to holistic, faith-based counseling at all levels.
Ways to Excel
Career Center
The Career Center can help you chart your path and connect with employers through internships, workshops, and job search resources.
Academic Advising Center
Work with your advisor to choose the courses and experiences that best support your professional goals.
Honors Program
Challenge yourself academically and professionally through the Honors Program. With advanced research and leadership opportunities, it’s an excellent way to stand out in the world of Advertising and PR.
A degree from Southwestern Adventist University is more accessible than you might think.
We are committed to helping every student find a clear, affordable path to graduation.
Scholarships & Grants
We believe hard work and dedication should be rewarded. That is why SWAU offers automatic academic merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores, as well as need-based aid and departmental awards.
- Merit Scholarships: Automatically awarded with admission
- Endowed & Donor-Funded Scholarships available
- Faith-based and church-matching scholarships for eligible students
- External scholarships are accepted from any organization
Apply for Scholarships
Your FAFSA, Your Counselor, Your First Step
Submitting your FAFSA is one of the best ways to unlock financial aid. Our financial counselors walk you through the process to ensure nothing is missed.
- SWAU FAFSA Code: 003619
- Get help submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Learn more about grants, loans, and federal work-study
- One-on-one financial counseling is available year-round
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
Take Action
Estimate Your Cost
Use our Net Price Calculator to see what your true cost may be after scholarships and financial aid.
Community is at the heart of Southwestern Adventist University, where students are empowered to form lasting bonds and embrace personal growth.
From engaging events to supportive friendships, students form a community where they grow both academically and personally. This vibrant campus culture makes every day a new opportunity for students to thrive.
A Welcoming & Connected Community
SWAU is known for its friendly and tight-knit campus culture. Whether you are joining student organizations, participating in residence hall activities, or building lifelong friendships in small classes, you will feel seen and supported.
- Student Government & Leadership: Step into leadership through student association and other campus governance roles.
- Campus Events: Weekly activities, music festivals, and cultural events make every semester memorable.
See Upcoming Events
Faith & Spiritual Life
Faith is the foundation of everything we do at Southwestern Adventist University. Our Spiritual Life and Development Department (SLAD) creates a vibrant environment where students can grow spiritually, build community, and find purpose.
SLAD Programs and Opportunities:
- Worship Services: Weekly chapels and vespers for community reflection and renewal.
- Community Service: Service projects and volunteer opportunities that make a local impact.
- Church Ministries: Support and leadership roles in local churches and campus ministries.
- Mission Work: Domestic and international mission trips that let you live out your faith.
Join a community where faith is lived out in service, worship, and daily life.
Learn More About SLAD
Tutoring & Academic Support
Find personalized help and academic resources through our Tutoring Center, where peer tutors and workshops support your learning.
Athletics & Intramurals
Stay active and connected through intramural sports, cheering on the Knights at games, or working out in our campus gym and weight room. There’s a way for everyone to get moving and stay healthy.
Alumni Association
SWAU’s alumni network is a powerful resource for mentorship, networking, and lifelong friendships.
Course Catalog
Shaping Young Lives Begins with Great Teachers
We believe that caring for children means preparing exceptional teachers. At SWAU, we focus on developing educators who are not only knowledgeable, but who lead with heart—because children deserve both excellence and compassion.”
Dr. Cheryl The
Chair, Education & Psychology Department
Let's Get Started
Ready to inspire the next generation of learners with a degree from Southwestern Adventist University?
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The Educator Preparation Program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency, 1701 N. Congress Avenue Austin, Texas, 78701.
The pass rate for State of Texas Teacher Certification Exams:
PPR 80%
Core Subjects 90%
Job Placement 100% Placement for graduates seeking teaching positions.
100% Teacher Certification for those seeking a Seventh-day Adventist Teaching Credential