College of Education

Hawkins Hall 304
Phone: 410-704-2570
Fax: 410-704-2733
Email: coe@towson.edu

Towson University has a distinguished history in the preparation of classroom teachers and ­education specialists. As the first teacher-training institution in Maryland, TU has been preparing men and women for teaching careers for more than 150 years. Programs of study within the College of Education lead to the baccalaureate degree in education with eligibility for certification in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Middle School Education, and Special Education. In addition, the college offers programs that lead to certification in Secondary Education and PreK-12 education for those students enrolled in other colleges of the university. Programs of study within the college are constantly assessed and updated in order to provide students with three essentials for ­professional success:

  1. a challenging core curriculum in a variety of disciplines;
  2. in-depth content knowledge in the field of teaching specialization;
  3. and a professional education based upon current research, professional standards, and models of best practice.

The teaching faculty in the College of Education is dedicated to providing a background in research on learning and methods of instruction which prepares teachers and education specialists as ­facilitators of active learning for diverse and inclusive populations in environments that are technologically advanced. To promote this goal, faculty members are committed to active participation in the academic community as teachers, scholars, and advisers. They use methods of instruction which emphasize active student learning through the integration of content knowledge with the study and practice of effective pedagogy.

Laurie Mullen, Dean
Laila Richman, Associate Dean

The College of Education offers programs of study leading to the baccalaureate degree in education with certification to teach early childhood, elementary, middle school and special education. In addition, the college offers programs that lead to teacher certification in secondary education and PreK-12 education. Students must be aware that all programs are screened majors; specified admission standards, including Core Curriculum requirements, are included in program-specific descriptions.

Teacher Education programs, based on state and national standards, are nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Programs utilize the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium Principles and program-specific professional association standards as performance-based outcomes for teacher candidates. Applicants for Maryland teaching certificates are required to meet the Maryland State Department of Education Basic Skills Assessment requirements, Praxis II Content Examination requirements, and the Performance Assessment requirement, as determined by the Maryland State Board of Education.

Core Values

  • Diversity and Inclusivity
  • Professionalism and Leadership
  • Collaboration and Reflection
  • Commitment and Compassion

Vision Statement

Towson University will be recognized for preparing innovative and socially just professionals who advocate on behalf of children, families, and the profession. We will empower educators with strong knowledge of research-based pedagogies, a technology-rich skillset, a deep understanding of how children, youth, and adults learn, and caring dispositions to lead and succeed in inclusive and equitable settings.

Mission Statement

The mission of Educator Preparation Programs at Towson University is to:

  • Prepare the next generation of diverse educators and leaders committed to meet the individual needs of all learners.
  • Advance scholarship around significant priorities in the profession.
  • Collaborate with and advocate for children, families, and communities.
  • Develop and implement innovative solutions to education challenges.