At PLNU, we value passionate educators who have a heart for their students. The Liberal Studies with an Emphasis in Education program will empower aspiring teachers in the state of California with the best teaching practices while simultaneously earning a preliminary teaching credential.
Hybrid learning for today’s educators
If you are a para-educator with classroom experience or a career-changer looking to translate your experience into the education field, this hybrid LSEE program allows you to finish your bachelor’s degree while earning your teaching credential in as few as 16 months. Credential options include:
- Single subject
- Multiple subject
- Education specialist
Students can begin the LSEE degree with as few as zero (0) units. These students can take their general education and prerequisite courses online and then choose the class format that’s right for them for their required major classes.
Convenient, familiar locations to continue your education
The quality of PLNU education without the hassle of long commutes. This program features one in-person evening class per week at PLNU’s excellent Mission Valley and Bakersfield campuses, with the rest of the classes online. Rather than feeling like you’re starting a new program, you can continue your education in the environment that’s most comfortable and convenient for you.
Educational training on your terms
This program’s hybrid structure gives you the flexibility to learn when and where you want. You can complete coursework in the comfort of your home, favorite coffee shop, or local library while choosing a study schedule that works best for you. Having one in-person class per week will help you to build a routine that keeps you motivated without interrupting your weekly schedule.
Community and mentorship ideal for rising teachers
A key advantage to having weekly in-person classes is the ability to enjoy PLNU’s tight-knit community in person. You’ll be able to form meaningful connections with fellow students as you learn and grow together in your expertise as an educator.
"Our teacher education program is designed to provide multiple pathways for candidates to achieve teaching credentials and advanced degrees. We model approaches to teaching that are relational and supportive while also giving candidates research-based strategies and fieldwork experiences in the classroom."
Dr. Shirlee Gibbs
Coordinator, M.A. in Teaching Program and Professor of Education
You’ll also have access to top-tier mentorship from professors and advisors. They’ll help you to leverage your strengths to expand your connections and career opportunities. You’ll be able to access resources tailored to you and your career goals.
Save time for life’s special moments
Learning shouldn’t prevent you from doing what you love. Coursework is designed to be flexible to your needs and help you balance your other life commitments.
While completing this program, you’ll still be able to continue spending time with family, thriving at your full- or part-time workplace, or leisure time.
100 years of training teachers
This program provides for approximately 100 hours of fieldwork in local public schools and is an ideal major for aspiring teachers wanting to teach elementary-grade levels.
With more than 100 years of experience, PLNU's School of Education is rooted in training students in an uplifting faith-based learning environment to become exceptional educators of noble character.
"PLNU has established a reputation within the community for producing well trained, reflective teacher candidates who are committed to the profession."
Dr. Lori Aragon
Assistant Superintendent, Greenfield Union School District, Kern County
Impact your community
With coursework grounded in research and tied to critical issues educators face, you’ll be ready to have a real impact. Our reputation and strong community relationships mean local schools and districts work directly with PLNU to interview and hire our graduates.
Enhance your degree with a Minor
Adding a minor to your Accelerated undergraduate program can be a great opportunity to broaden your knowledge, increase career opportunities, and foster personal growth. Explore subjects like Marketing, Organizational Leadership, Strategic Communication, Management, Creative Digital Media, and Child Development. Choosing to add a minor can make your degree more versatile, well-rounded, and appealing to future employers. PLNU Counselors are ready to help you integrate a minor into your academic plan. Discover the benefits of a minor at PLNU today!
Child Development Minor
In PLNU’s forthcoming Child Development minor, rising educators can discover the fundamentals of child development and learn how to help support children as they learn and grow.
This minor will be open to everyone. Whether you’re a rising educator, a professional in social work or child welfare, or parents and guardians who wish to have a better understanding of how best to raise children, the child development minor can help you know how to understand, support and encourage children in their development.
The child development minor is highly recommended for students who are seeking a multiple subject credential. This will prepare them perfectly to teach grades PK–3. Talk to your academic advisor for more information about availability!
Professional licensure or certification
This program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and meets the requirements for educator certification in the state of California, where Point Loma Nazarene University is physically located. PLNU cannot confirm whether or not specific programs meet out-of-state requirements for professional licensure or certification. Information about out-of-state requirements in teacher credentialing is available on this website.
