Embracing The University of Alabama’s mission to advance the intellectual and social condition of the people in the state, the minor in Educational Studies is designed as an option for Honors College students (1) to develop a knowledge base about education and schooling, (2) to learn classroom strategies related to teaching and learning, and (3) to act as informed advocates for the public and private school systems. The minor is offered jointly between the College of Education and the Honors College as a program for Honors College students to engage in critical thought and action about education in the 21st century in terms of:

• Fundamentals/foundational knowledge about education and PK-12 schooling
• Diversity, advocacy, service and involvement in schools and communities
• Accountability, policy, and broader economic, political, social, cultural and philosophical contexts

The Education Studies Minor is a unique opportunity for Honors College students who are interested in education but are not majoring in programs housed in the College of Education. This longstanding “Partner Program” is aimed to prepare students in a variety of ways. Most specifically, students who want to explore the philosophy of education, curriculum and pedagogy. This minor helps frame education as a “public good” and inspires the students to become involved and engaged inside and outside of the traditional classroom. The curriculum leads students from the foundational philosophy of education through a critique of how and why education can be utilized for positive social change in society. Many former students have used their Education Studies Minor to launch them into Law School, public policy/administration, Teach For America, Foreign Service, AmeriCorps, Outward Bound/NOLS and a host of other experiences.   

For more information please contact:

Dr. Joy Burnham, Senior Associate Dean & Professor, College of Education
jburnham@ua.edu
205-348-6051

Dr. W. Ross Bryan, Associate Dean & Associate Professor, Honors College
wbryan@ua.edu
205-348-5500