interdisciplinary studies

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree with a concentration in Middle Grades Education at FHU offers numerous benefits, providing a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in education. Some key advantages include:

1. Specialized Focus: By concentrating on Middle Grades Education, you gain in-depth knowledge and expertise tailored to the unique needs of students in grades 6 to 8.
2. Practical Experience: FHU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing valuable practicum experiences and a full semester of student teaching in real school settings, preparing you for the classroom with confidence.
3. Professional Licensure: Upon completing the program, you become eligible for certification to teach middle grades, opening doors to a wide range of teaching opportunities.
4. Impactful Teaching: You’ll learn effective strategies to engage and inspire young minds during their crucial middle grades years, making a positive and lasting impact on their educational journey.
5. Expert Faculty: Learn from dedicated educators who specialize in Middle Grades Education, benefiting from their guidance and expertise throughout your academic journey.
6. Career Opportunities: As a graduate with a concentration in Middle Grades Education, you’ll have access to a variety of rewarding career paths in education, including teaching roles, curriculum development, instructional coaching, and more.

Enrolling in the Interdisciplinary Studies degree with a concentration in Middle Grades Education at FHU ensures you are well-prepared to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners and excel in your chosen career within the field of education.

The “concentration” and “major” are often used interchangeably in higher education, but there are some key differences between them. Here’s an explanation of the differences:

A major is a specific area of study that represents the student’s primary focus. It typically requires completing core courses and electives that provide a comprehensive education in the chosen field. For example, a student majoring in biology might take courses in cell biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution.

A concentration is a specialized area of study within a major. It allows students to explore a specific aspect of the major in greater depth. For example, a student majoring in business might choose to concentrate on marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship. This concentration would require additional coursework in the selected area of study.

Generally, a major is broader than a concentration and requires more coursework. A concentration provides a deeper understanding of a specific area within the major. In some cases, a concentration may be required as part of a major, while in others, it may be optional.

Another difference between a concentration and a major is the level of specificity. A major is a broad area of study, while a concentration is a more specialized subset of the major. For example, a student majoring in English might choose to concentrate on creative writing, which would allow them to focus specifically on writing fiction, poetry, or nonfiction.

In summary, a major is the primary field of study, while a concentration is a specialization within the major. The major requires more coursework than the concentration, and the concentration provides a deeper understanding of a specific area within the major.

At Freed-Hardeman University (FHU), we offer a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Elementary Education (K-5). Aspiring educators can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful elementary education teachers while exploring multiple fields of study. The program is flexible and allows prospective elementary school teachers and students to customize their educational experience in an interdisciplinary way. With the combination of core courses and electives, students can make the most of their college career and pursue a rewarding career in teaching.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades Education opens up various rewarding career options in the field of education. Some potential career paths include:

1. Middle Grades Teacher: Become a licensed educator and teach a range of subjects, such as English, Science, Social Studies, or Math, to students in grades 6 to 8.
2. Curriculum Developer: Design and create interdisciplinary lesson plans and educational materials that engage and inspire young learners.
3. Instructional Coach: Provide support and mentorship to middle grades teachers, helping them enhance their teaching methods and classroom strategies.
4. Education Coordinator: Work in educational institutions or non-profit organizations to coordinate programs and initiatives focused on middle grades education.
5. Educational Content Writer: Create educational content, including textbooks, e-learning modules, and educational websites, catering to middle grades learners.
6. Education Researcher: Conduct research studies to explore and evaluate innovative teaching methods and their impact on middle grades students’ learning outcomes.

With an Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades Education degree, you’ll have the flexibility to explore various career paths within the education sector, making a positive impact on the lives of young learners and contributing to the future of education.

The job outlook for graduates with an Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades Education degree is generally positive, as there is a continuous demand for qualified and dedicated educators in the middle grades education sector. Several factors contribute to this favorable job outlook:

1. Increasing Student Enrollment: As student populations grow or fluctuate, schools continually need middle grades educators to meet the demand.
2. Teacher Retirement and Turnover: With many experienced teachers approaching retirement age, there are openings for new educators to fill these positions. Additionally, turnover within the education field creates job opportunities for fresh graduates.
3. Rising Awareness of Education Importance: The value of quality education is widely recognized, leading to a sustained demand for skilled middle grades teachers who can make a difference in students’ lives.
4. Specialization in Content Areas: Graduates with a focus on English, Science, Social Studies, or Math have an advantage in securing teaching positions in specific content areas where there may be higher demand.
5. Education Support Roles: Beyond traditional teaching positions, there is a need for education coordinators, curriculum developers, instructional coaches, and other specialized roles where graduates with an Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades Education degree can excel.

It’s important to note that the job market can vary by location and specific school districts. Graduates willing to be flexible with their geographic preferences and open to diverse teaching opportunities may have increased chances of finding employment.

As education remains a fundamental pillar of society, the demand for qualified middle grades educators is expected to remain stable, making an Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades Education degree a promising pathway to a fulfilling and impactful career in the field of education.