The UK text as a link to the UK homepage.
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Education

Visit the UK College of Education Web site.

A group of students

"When I first came to the University of Kentucky from Illinois, I did not know anyone and I definitely did not know what I wanted to major in. I was advised to take classes in various areas to aid me in making my decision on what to do with the rest of my life. This is what led me to the College of Education.
The first course I took offered by the College of Education was an introductory class that immediately sparked my interest in special education. From this point onward, I was hooked. The instructors and advisors in the department had all the answers to my questions and provided the motivation I needed to stay excited and interested in the field of special education. I have found ample opportunities through the College of Education to volunteer and expand my knowledge on a subject that has become very important to me: working with students with emotional and behavioral disabilities. Through my classes in the College of Education I have been provided with ample field placements to apply what I learn in the classroom to life in the 'real world.' A classroom climate in which hands-on activities and questions are encouraged has provided me with a very diverse and interactive learning experience. Organizations such as the Student Council for Exceptional Children have allowed me to grow as a leader and have exposed me to many volunteer and community involvement opportunities. Now as I enter my senior year, I am happy to say without hesitation that I know what I want to do with the rest of my life. I cannot imagine myself doing anything but being a special educator."

-- Jessica Fowler

James G. Cibulka, Ph.D., is Dean of the College of Education.

The College of Education prepares students for professional careers in the field of education and human services. In addition to producing excellent teachers, College of Education graduates have gone on to excel in numerous other professional fields.

Ninety eight percent of the college faculty have attained the highest degrees possible in their fields. The College provides students with access to state-of-the-art technology. Each building is equipped with computer laboratories and new “smart” classrooms to keep students and faculty in pace with the latest technological advances in education.

Whether a student's interest is teaching, administration, school or counseling psychology, coaching, dance, or special education, a degree from the UK College of Education means that he/she will be prepared for a rewarding career and a lifetime of influence on the lives of others.

Federal Title II Reporting

The University of Kentucky educator preparation unit participates in federal reporting of student performance on PRAXIS examinations required for state educator licensure. For the 2002-2003 cohort, UK students had an overall pass rate on required examinations for teacher licensure of 96 percent compared with a statewide pass rate of 94 percent. To review the University of Kentucky state report card on its educator preparation programs, visit the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board Web site at www.keppreportcard.org/. For more information about the performance of UK students and all Kentucky students on the PRAXIS examinations, visit: www.title2.org/data.htm.

Accreditation

The Professional Education Unit for the University of Kentucky is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and all professional educator programs are approved by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB).

Relationship With the Kentucky EPSB

All University of Kentucky educator preparation programs, initial or advanced, have been approved by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB), in accordance with Kentucky statutes and regulations. In addition to overseeing all educator preparation programs approved for operation in Kentucky, the EPSB also issues, renews and revokes all Kentucky educator licenses (certificates). Kentucky educator certification regulations are always in a state of change. For the most up-to-date information about educator certification, refer to the EPSB Web site at: www.kyepsb.net/.

Undergraduate Programs in Education

The University of Kentucky grants the following degrees in the College of Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Education

Students pursuing one of the following majors earn a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree:

Students pursuing special education (moderate and severe disabilities) earn the Bachelor of Science degree.

Persons holding a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum overall GPA of at least 2.50, may pursue initial teacher certification at the undergraduate level by following any of the programs described in this Bulletin, including all College of Education admission, retention and completion requirements. If these persons also wish to earn a UK bachelor's degree, all UK degree requirements must be met.

Graduate Programs in Education

  • Master of Arts in Education
  • Master of Science (Kinesiology and Health Promotion)
  • Master of Science in Education
  • Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Rank II (32 hour) and Rank I (30 hour) Programs in Professional Education

Graduate Programs Leading to Advanced Educator Licensure

The University of Kentucky offers graduate programs leading to advanced educator licensure in Reading and Writing, Gifted Education, Computer Science in Instructional Systems Design, English as a Second Language, Library Science, Communication Disorders, School Psychology, and School Leadership.

UK Graduate Certificates

The University of Kentucky offers a graduate certificate in Middle and Secondary School Reading. (Candidates must hold a valid teaching certificate to enter this program.)

Graduate Programs Leading to Initial Educator Licensure

The following graduate level initial educator certification programs are available at the University of Kentucky: 1) stand-alone certification program in special education/learning and behavior disorders, grades P-12; 2) master of science program leading to certification in moderate/severe disabilities, grades P-12; 3) master of arts in education with initial certification in secondary education, grades 8-12, English, mathematics, science (biology, chemistry, earth science, physical science or physics), social studies); 4) master of arts in education with initial certification in foreign language education, grades P-12 (options in French, German, Latin, Russian, Spanish); 5) master of arts in education with initial certification, grades 5-12 in business and marketing education, 6) master of science in vocational education with initial certification, grades 5-12 (options in agriculture education and family and consumer sciences education); 7) master of science in communication disorders with initial certification, grades P-12; and 8) certification program in school psychology, grades P-12.

For more information about programs, please visit the College of Education Web site at: www.uky.edu/education/.

Graduate Alternative Certification Programs Leading to Initial Educator Licensure

Graduate Alternative Certification Programs leading to initial educator licensure are offered in the areas of Moderate and Severe Disabilities P-12, Middle School Education 5-8, and Secondary Education 8-12. Students who wish to enroll in a Graduate Alternative Certification Program must be employed in one of the participating school districts, and must meet the College of Education Admission, Retention and Completion standards, and the standards of the UK Graduate School. Graduate Alternative Certification Programs are three-year programs, including the Kentucky Teacher Internship Program. Additional alternative certification programs are under development and may become available at any time. Contact the Office of the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Services for more information.

Special Facilities and Services

The Education Library provides a wide range of education materials, with over 400 journals and 100,000 books, plus children's literature and Kentucky state-approved textbook collections. In addition, major education databases are available through the library's Web site at: www.uky.edu/Libraries/educ/.

The Instructional Technology Center provides media services to students, faculty, and programs of the College of Education. Services include computer classrooms, computer hardware and software support, presentation technology, circulation of nonprint teaching materials and audiovisual equipment; a materials preparation laboratory; graphic, photographic, and recorded media; and facilities for working with films and electronic media. The staff is available to assist with a wide range of technology-related activities.

The Literacy Clinic provides diagnostic and instructional services. Reading and language arts materials, children's literature, professional texts and journals, and other reference materials are available. Tutors are recommended, based on availability.

The Office of Minority Recruitment and Retention, 107A Taylor Education Building, (859) 257-1229, serves to "reach" minority students currently enrolled in the College, to become aware of their concerns, to provide needed support, and to encourage participation in activities and programs of particular interest to education majors. The office also works with local and adjacent school districts to implement Future Educators of America clubs, collaborates with Lexington Community College in identifying students who are interested in teaching, participates in campus-wide minority recruitment and retention activities, and builds community awareness of the need for minority teachers through participation in various projects.

The Center for Professional Development 105 Taylor Education Building, (859) 257-3792, works with public school systems and agencies outside the University to provide in-service programming, field service, and research experience. Specifically, the Center coordinates the “Mentor Program” with Fayette County Schools, is a reference point for student organizations in the College of Education, and houses the headquarters of the Kentucky State Committee of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The Institute on Education Reform coordinates the efforts of the College of Education to implement the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA). The Institute has three major goals: to stimulate research related to the implementation and effectiveness of KERA initiatives; to serve as a clearinghouse for information related to education reform in Kentucky; to provide staff development for teachers and administrators; and to redesign College of Education professional preparation programs to prepare graduates for the restructured schools of Kentucky.

The Kentucky Council on Economic Education works with classroom teachers to identify graduate courses, in-service programming, and seminars to help teachers integrate economic concepts into the school curriculum.

The Office of Educational Research and Development provides technical support to faculty and staff involved in research and proposal development, particularly as these enhance the College's participation in the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA), assists in follow-up studies of graduates, and assists with internal studies and evaluations of programs.

The Policy Analysis Center for Kentucky Education (PACKE) conducts research on policy issues related to education and evaluates implemented policies and programs.

The Office of Higher Education Research and Development conducts research on questions on higher education that are important to Kentucky. Research results are shared with the Council on Postsecondary Education and other institutions in Kentucky.

The Biodynamics Laboratory is a multidisciplinary facility housed in the Center for Biomedical Engineering. Faculty and students from Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Biomedical Engineering, Sports Medicine, Athletic Training, Minimally Invasive Surgery, and other related fields use high-speed videography, electromyography, and force measures to understand human movement.

The Pediatrics Exercise Physiology (PEP) Laboratory is one of only a handful of facilities in the world designed specifically to serve the needs of pediatrics patients.

The UK Body Composition Core Laboratory (BCCL) is a human-based laboratory facility specifically designed to provide state-of-the-art body composition analysis for research and clinical investigations.

The Collaborative Center for Literacy Development (CCLD), 101 Taylor Education Building, was established by the Kentucky General Assembly in 1998 to make available training in literacy for educators and to promote literacy development. The Center focuses on six requirements laid out in Senate Bill 186, to: provide professional development and coaching for classroom teachers to implement reliable research-based reading models; establish a demonstration and training site for early literacy at each of Kentucky's public universities; collaborate with public and private post-secondary institutions to provide quality pre-service and professional development in early reading instruction; assist districts located in areas with low reading skills to assess and address identified literacy needs; identify models of reading instruction supported by research; and develop and implement a clearinghouse for information about reading models. The CCLD works to improve achievement for students pre-school through adulthood.

The School Psychology Clinic, 641 Maxwelton Court, (859) 257-1381, provides diagnostic assessment, intervention and consultative services to assist children, adolescents, college students, and adult learners with psychological and educational concerns. The clinic is also organized to provide supervised training for graduate students in school psychology at the University of Kentucky. Referrals and requests for services are accepted from parents, teachers, counselors, and others, as well as from school systems, community agencies and organizations.

The Counseling Psychology Services Clinic, 251 Dickey Hall, (859) 257-4159, is operated by the Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology. The CPS Clinic provides individual, couples, family, parent-child, and group counseling. Diverse populations are welcomed; personal, career, and interpersonal issues can be addressed. The CPS Clinic serves as a training facility for advanced-level masters and doctoral students who are supervised by licensed psychologists. Fees for the CPS Clinic operate on a sliding scale to allow the greatest number of individuals in Lexington and the surrounding counties to be served.

The Center for Traumatic Stress Research, 251 Dickey Hall, (859) 257-9338, is a multi-service psychological trauma center dedicated to providing specialized counseling services to trauma survivors. The Center offers short-term psychotherapy to individuals of all ages, critical incident stress debriefings, and assessment and evaluation of posttraumatic symptomatology for litigation and/or disability claims. The Center also serves as a training clinic for graduate students in Counseling Psychology.

General Information

Students who wish to be recommended for any state educator licensure (certification) must meet the requirements of the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board, and the University of Kentucky Senate.

Students desiring to be recommended for initial certificates in a major must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program associated with that major. The number of students admitted to any UK teacher education program each year depends upon the availability of resources for maintaining quality instruction.

Admission to a teacher education program is highly selective and may be competitive. Meeting minimum requirements for application does not guarantee admission.

Students will be recommended for degrees only upon completion of approved degree programs. Students who have not been admitted to a teacher education program will not be permitted to enroll in courses requiring Teacher Education Program admittance.

ADMISSION, RETENTION AND EXIT FROM TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS

A student must be admitted, retained in, and successfully exit from a state-approved teacher education program in order to receive a teaching certificate. The components of an approved teacher preparation program include: 1) an earned bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, 2) completion of approved teaching subject matter field(s), 3) successful completion of state mandated testing, 4) completion of a teacher preparation program, including student teaching, 5) and verification by program faculty that all applicable standards have been met.

The College of Education Certification Program Faculties, the College of Education Director of Academic Services and Teacher Certification, and the University Registrar are charged with the responsibility to monitor a student's progress through the teacher preparation program, and to recommend to the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) that a successful candidate be awarded a state teaching license (certificate).

Continuous Assessment in Teacher Education Programs

A student's progress through all teacher preparation programs is continuously monitored, assessed, and reviewed. In addition to typical evaluation processes that occur as part of their course work and field placements, students will be assessed a minimum of three times during their program by representatives of their respective program faculty.

The three assessments will occur upon entry into the Teacher Education Program, at a midpoint in the program (no later than the semester prior to student teaching), and as students exit the program following student teaching. Assessments will include, but are not limited to: (a) appropriate scores on approved standardized tests, (b) review of grades via inspection of transcript, (c) personal and professional skills assessed during interviews with program faculty, when taking campus based courses, and during field experiences, (d) portfolio documents, and (e) continued adherence to the KY Professional Code of Ethics.

Following admission to a teacher education program, if problems have been identified at any assessment point, program faculty will determine a plan for addressing the problems and implement the plan including feedback and direction to the student. In addition, if specific strengths are recognized during these assessments, the student will be commended.

Standards for Admission to a Teacher Education Program

  1. Candidates for admission must have completed at least 60 semester hours, or, if pursuing initial certification as a post-baccalaureate graduate or graduate student, must have earned a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
  2. Candidates for admission must demonstrate academic achievement by earning a minimum overall GPA of 2.50. In addition, post-baccalaureate graduate and graduate level students must demonstrate a minimum 2.50 GPA in the teaching subject matter field(s). Students seeking admission to a Master's Degree initial certification program must also satisfy UK Graduate School admissions standards.
  3. Candidates for admission must certify their knowledge of the Kentucky Professional Code of Ethics and must sign a state mandated character and fitness review.
  4. Candidates for admission must demonstrate aptitude for teaching by presenting three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the candidate's potential success in teaching.
  5. Candidates must present an Admissions Portfolio. Although the contents of the portfolio will vary by program, it will include at least the following: "best piece" sample(s) of writing in the subject matter field(s); evidence of experience with students and/or community; and a written autobiography or resume.
  6. Candidates for admission must demonstrate an acceptable level of skills in written communication. This will be assessed through an on-demand writing task at the time of the interview. In lieu of an on-demand task, program faculty may require that the candidate demonstrate having earned a minimum grade of B in a college-level written composition course.
  7. Candidates for admission must demonstrate an acceptable level of skills in oral communication. This will be assessed by the program faculty at the time of the admissions interview. In lieu of assessing oral communication skills at the time of the interview, the program faculty may require that students have earned at least a B in a college level public speaking course.
  8. Candidates for admission must present acceptable scores on one of the following standardized tests:
    • ACT -- with minimum composite score of 21.
    • SAT -- minimum composite score of 990 (combination of Verbal and Quantitative). A minimum grade of B on a college level written composition course must accompany the SAT scores. Composition courses normally used to fulfill this requirement include ENG 101, ENG 102, ENG 105, ENG 305, or an equivalent course from another institution. Advanced Placement English used to fulfill the USP writing requirement may also be used.
    • GRE -- minimum composite score of 1200 (combination of Verbal, Quantitative, Analytic). A minimum grade of B on a college level written composition course must accompany the GRE scores. Composition courses normally used to fulfill this requirement include ENG 101, ENG 102, ENG 105, ENG 305, or an equivalent course from another institution. Advanced Placement English used to fulfill the USP writing requirement may also be used. Applicants whose GRE scores reflect the new Analytic Writing test must have at least a combined score of 800 on the Verbal and Quantitative portions of the GRE, in conjunction with an Analytic Writing score of 4.
    • PRAXIS I Reading Test -- (173 paper or 320 computer), Mathematics (173 paper, 318 computer), and Writing (172 paper, 318 computer).

    Rules which accompany the standardized testing requirements are as follows:

    • No standardized test scores older than eight years can be used to meet this requirement.
    • GRE scores may be used only by students who hold a bachelor's degree.
    • Students may retake subtests in multi-part tests.
    • Students seeking entrance to a graduate degree initial certification program must meet both the graduate school rules regarding the GRE, and College of Education rules for certificate program standardized testing.
  9. For those programs requiring EDP 202 as a prerequisite for admission to teacher education, students must complete EDP 202 with a grade of C or better.

Retention of Candidates in Teacher Education Programs

The progress of candidates who have been admitted to a teacher education program is continuously monitored. Some of the items which are monitored are: (a) whether a student continues to earn grades of C or better in professional education classes, (b) whether a student continues to maintain 2.50 minimum GPAs overall, 2.50 in the professional education component as defined in the student's program description, and 2.50 in all required subject areas, (c) whether a student continues to demonstrate adherence to the EPSB Professional Code of Ethics, and (d) whether adequate progress is being made in building the Working Portfolio.

If problems are identified, program faculty will determine a plan for addressing the problems and implement the plan including feedback and direction to the student.

Prior to the student teaching semester, each candidate will be asked to provide evidence in the form of the Working Portfolio to demonstrate the acquisition of skills related to teaching in the chosen subject field, and to document progress in any identified problem areas. Each candidate's portfolio will be reviewed by the appropriate program faculty, and continued progress through the program will be contingent on the results of this midpoint review.

Admission to student teaching requires a successful retention review and recommendation by the program faculty that the candidate be allowed to student teach.

All teacher certification candidates are encouraged to complete the required state-mandated examinations prior to beginning student teaching.

Exit from Teacher Certification Programs

All candidates for completion of a teacher education program must continue to meet all standards for admission and retention at the time of exit.

At exit all teacher certification candidates must present an Exit Portfolio for review by the appropriate program faculty. The exit portfolio will be organized by Kentucky New Teacher Standards and will include a mix of items selected by the candidate and required by the particular program faculty.

The program faculty must certify that a review of the Exit Portfolio, and other pertinent documents has demonstrated that the candidate has met all of the Kentucky New Teacher Standards as a prerequisite to recommending the candidate for a teaching license.

Prior to exit from the teacher certification program all candidates must achieve required cut-off scores on all Kentucky state mandated teacher certification tests.

State Mandated Testing and the Kentucky Teacher Internship

Successful completion of the examinations required by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board is a precondition for the granting of a teaching license (certificate).

Upon being recommended by the College of Education for a Kentucky Teaching License (Certificate), a candidate will be issued a Kentucky Letter of Eligibility for the Kentucky Teacher Internship Program. Upon employment in a Kentucky P-12 school, the candidate will receive a one-year license to practice as a fully qualified intern teacher. After successfully completing the internship year, the candidate will be eligible for a regular Kentucky Professional Teaching License (Certificate). An exception to this rule are the Kentucky Alternative Certification Programs. In these programs, the Kentucky Teacher Internship is part of the program, which allows candidates, upon completion of the program, to be recommended for a full professional educator license (certificate).

Information concerning licensure in other states is available from the College of Education office of Academic Services and Teacher Certification.

Admission and Graduation for Secondary Education Students Not Seeking Admission to a Teacher Certification Program

  1. All students pursuing a secondary education major without teacher certification must be admitted to advanced standing as described in items 2 - 4 below.
  2. To be admitted to advanced standing a student must have completed at least 60 semester hours.
  3. Students must demonstrate academic achievement by earning a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 at the time of applying for advanced standing. At the time of graduation, students must demonstrate not only a minimum overall GPA of 2.50, but also a minimum GPA of 2.50 in the teaching subject matter field(s).
  4. All requests for admission to advanced standing must be reviewed by appropriate faculty advisors. Students not recommended for advanced standing by an appropriate advisor are ineligible to continue or graduate from College of Education programs.

Calculation of GPAs for Admission to Initial Certification Programs

GPA Rules

All candidates for admission to a UK initial teacher certification program must have earned an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 2.50.

In addition, candidates for admission to a graduate level initial certification program, i.e., secondary programs, vocational education, must have earned in their subject area fields a GPA of at least 2.50.

Master's degree initial certification programs require a cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all graduate work prior to admission to the program.

UK cumulative GPAs are figured using the rules of the UK Registrar.

Undergraduate initial certification programs require a UK cumulative GPA of 2.50 calculated after the completion of at least twelve semester credit hours.

All courses used to satisfy subject matter certification requirements are used to calculate subject matter GPAs. Verification of subject matter GPAs require the use of any applicable non-UK transcripts for information about grades, credit hours and quality points.

Master's degree initial certification programs require an undergraduate overall GPA of 2.50, but do not require a UK cumulative GPA prior to admission.

Post bachelor's degree initial certification programs require an undergraduate overall GPA of 2.50, but do not require a UK cumulative GPA prior to admission.

Determination of GPAs for Admission to Initial Certification Programs
If the initial certification program requires a UK GPA, the GPA would be calculated using the rules of the UK Registrar.

If the initial certification program does not require a UK GPA, the required cumulative GPA of at least 2.50 is taken directly from the transcript that shows the award of the Bachelor's degree.

If an initial program requires review of the graduate GPA, all graduate courses taken on all transcripts are used to calculate the graduate GPA of at least 3.0.

Candidates for admission to a post-baccalaureate graduate initial certification program with less than a 2.50 cumulative GPA may establish a UK undergraduate GPA for the purposes of admission to the program. The UK GPA calculated for this purpose must include at least 12 semester hours taken from four sections of the UK University Studies categories and approved courses lists.

Subject area GPAs are calculated using all courses included on the candidate's approved subject area course listing form.

Questions regarding the College of Education Admission/Retention/Exit policy should be directed to:

Office of Academic Services and Teacher Certification
166 Taylor Education Building
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506-0001
(859) 257-7971
www.uky.edu/education/

The College of Education awards scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students. Information and application forms are available in 166 Taylor Education Building. The deadline for scholarship applications is February 15. Graduate students should also contact the Director of Graduate Studies in their department for information about any targeted scholarship funds. Kentucky residents who are enrolled in a teacher certification program may also apply for funds from the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority Teacher Scholarship program (KHEAA). Students applying for funds through the KHEAA teacher scholarship program must include a completed FAFSA need analysis data form with their applications. Funds are awarded first to students fully admitted to a teacher education program, in order of the greatest financial need. The College of Education also administers the Kentucky Minority Educator Recruitment and Retention scholarship program (MERR) for the Kentucky Department of Education. Minority students applying for MERR funds must be Kentucky residents. Both KHEAA and MERR teacher scholarships awards are forgivable on a semester by semester basis when the candidate teaches in Kentucky public schools. Award recipients who do not teach in Kentucky public schools must pay back the awards, with interest. KHEAA and MERR forms are available in 166 Taylor Education Building.

General Rules for Student Teaching

A student may enroll in student teaching in one of the educator preparation programs provided he or she has:

  1. been admitted to and retained in the appropriate teacher education program;
  2. maintained a grade-point standing of at least 2.50 in (a) subject matter area(s) as defined by the program, (b) professional education, (c) related studies, and (d) overall;
  3. completed all professional education courses except student teaching;
  4. completed a minimum of 75 percent of the required subject matter courses;
  5. applied and been accepted for student teaching two semesters prior to the one in which student teaching is to be done;
  6. completed the required national and state criminal background check with no criminal background identified;
  7. been accepted by the school system and supervising teacher where he or she plans to do student teaching;
  8. scheduled no more than 3 hours of college work to be carried during student teaching with no classes scheduled to interfere with the student teaching assignment; and,
  9. presented evidence of having had a specified physical examination.
  10. P-12 certification programs require student teaching in more than one grade level.

Policy on Intensive Field Experiences

The University of Kentucky College of Education is committed to preparing candidates for the teaching profession who are effective, reflective decision makers. To that end, and in order to meet state certification regulations and national accreditation requirements, teacher candidates complete an array of carefully planned field experiences. These experiences are systematically integrated into the teacher education program curriculum.

In order to ensure high quality experiences, the College has established a network of clinical sites where candidates complete field placements. These sites are part of the university's extended campus known as the university clinical/field network. Sites are selected at the program level (i.e., by the program faculty that governs the curriculum for the particular certification area). Selection decisions are made using specific criteria that are directly linked to program goals, accreditation standards, and certification requirements.

All teacher candidates are expected to complete their intensive field experiences (referred to as practicum and student teaching) in these approved clinical sites.

Character and Fitness Reviews

All students seeking admission to, retention in, or completion of a UK educator preparation program, must complete a state mandated character and fitness review. In addition, students with records of misconduct beyond simple traffic violations must provide complete documentation of this misconduct utilizing written procedures available in the office of Academic Services and Teacher Certification. Records of misconduct will be available for use by program faculties in making decisions about admission, retention and completion of the program. Students must also complete any state-mandated background checks, which may include a national check of FBI records. By Kentucky statute, persons with records of serious legal misconduct are ineligible for student teaching, state teaching licensure, or employment in the public schools. Students are responsible for completing all required background check procedures in a timely manner so that decisions about their movement through the program may be made.

Appeals

Candidates who are denied admission to an educator certification program, not retained in the program, or denied completion of the program, may appeal the decision of the program faculty.

The first appeal is for the program faculty to reconsider its initial decision. Candidates must request a reconsideration within 30 days of the date on the letter of denial. The request for reconsideration must be presented to the program faculty chair, who will call a meeting of the program faculty to review the original decision. The program faculty chair will notify the Director of Academic Services and Teacher Certification of the faculty's decision, and the Director will notify the candidate in writing.

If the program faculty does not alter its initial decision, the candidate may appeal to the College of Education standing committee on Undergraduate Admissions and Standards or the College of Education standing committee on Graduate Admissions and Standards. Candidates wishing to appeal to one of these admissions and standards committees must present their request for committee review to either the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Services or the Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies. The Associate Dean will assemble the necessary materials, call the committee together to hear the appeal, and inform the candidate of the committee's decision. The Associate Dean will also notify the Director of Academic Services and Teacher Certification so that student records may be updated. For purposes of admission, retention or completion of educator certification programs, the decision of the admissions and standards committee is final.

Applying for Kentucky Educator Licenses

The University of Kentucky offers programs for most initial and advanced professional educator licenses (certificates) issued by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB). EPSB license requirements are subject to change by the EPSB at any time.

UK candidates for Kentucky professional educator licenses must submit all required application materials to Academic Services and Teacher Certification, 166 Taylor Education Building, Lexington, KY 40506-0001. Recommendations to the EPSB that an educator license be issued are based upon a final audit of all program completion requirements.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

To graduate from the College of Education, a student must:

  1. complete all specific program requirements as listed in this Bulletin;
  2. meet all requirements of the College of Education admission/retention/exit policy;
  3. complete a minimum of 128 hours.

Because most students are pursuing both a UK degree and a state educator license (certificate), it is extremely important that advisors are consulted frequently to be sure that the best selection of courses is made to meet both requirements.

Undergraduate Advising

Lower division advising (freshman and sophomore standing) is accomplished and coordinated through Academic Services and Teacher Certification, 166 Taylor Education Building. (Kinesiology and Health Promotion advising takes place in the Seaton Center.)

Upper division students (junior and senior standing) and students admitted to a teacher education program are assigned faculty advisors.


DEPARTMENTS IN THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

NOTE: All College of Education undergraduate programs require a minimum of 128 hours for graduation. However, determining the exact number of hours will vary depending upon a student's chosen plan of study. Students are encouraged to review carefully each program and its components to determine the hours necessary for graduation.

Administration and Supervision

Visit the Administration and Supervision Web site.

The Department of Administration and Supervision seeks to improve the quality of American education through improved training and competence of administrators. The department is particularly mindful of its obligation to supply the needs of Kentucky for high quality administrators in public schools and educational agencies. Advanced programs are offered to meet certification requirements for elementary, middle, and secondary principals, supervisors of instruction, and superintendents of schools.

Curriculum and Instruction

Visit the Curriculum and Instruction Web site.

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Undergraduate programs prepare teachers for elementary, middle school, and secondary levels. Graduate programs include: advanced degrees in teaching at elementary, middle, and secondary levels; preparation for teaching at the college/university level; and preparation for instructional design roles in business and industry.

Educational and Counseling Psychology

Visit the Educational and Counseling Psychology Web site.

The Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology offers course work leading to provisional and standard certification and licensure in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, by the Education Professional Standards Board and the Kentucky Board of Psychology, respectively. The UK counseling and school psychology doctoral programs are fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), and the doctoral and specialist degree programs in school psychology are approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation

Visit the Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation Web site.

The Department of Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation provides a unique opportunity for students who wish to develop the knowledge, judgment, and research skill required to address educational issues with flexibility and imagination. Students are offered the resources of historical, sociological, philosophical, and comparative analysis; knowledge of current educational issues; expertise in evaluation research; and the opportunity to learn skills necessary to evaluate the significance of studies that bear on policy. The department offers advanced degrees only.

Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Visit the Kinesiology and Health Promotion Web site.

The Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion offers undergraduate courses and degree programs in kinesiology (physical education) and health promotion. Students are encouraged to take one 1-credit physical education class each semester during the first two years of college.

The Physical Education University Service program offers beginning instruction in both individual and team activities. Individual skill instruction is available in weight training, conditioning and fitness, golf, racquet sports, gymnastics, swimming, scuba diving, aerobic running and swimming, and dancing. Instruction in such team activities as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball is also available. In addition, intermediate and advanced courses in many of the activities are offered.

The kinesiology program is designed for students interested in teaching as well as those interested in physical education positions in industry. Students desiring teacher certification in the secondary schools complete standard University requirements and one of the plans listed under "Majors and Minors" below. Those not desiring teacher certification may pursue the program in exercise science.

The purpose of health promotion is to promote quality life for all people. This area of study is interdisciplinary, extending into biology, psychology, sociology, and medicine. Health promotion generally focuses on the whole individual, including social and emotional dimensions, not just the physical.

The program is geared toward teacher training in health promotion; however, opportunities for health educators exist in community agencies, adult fitness programs, and health education programs in industry and business.

Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling

Visit the Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling Web site.

The Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling offers two different programs of study at the undergraduate level: (1) learning and behavior disorders; and (2) moderate/severe disabilities.

Students enrolling in an undergraduate program should note that it is not possible to obtain dual certification in the usual four-year (eight-semester) undergraduate program. Students should contact the department for sample programs that illustrate options for scheduling courses to facilitate program completion. The MSD stand-alone program can be completed in four years. Students should consult The Graduate School Bulletin for graduate-level requirements.


DEGREE PROGRAMS OUTSIDE THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

B.A. with a major in Art Education

The requirements for K-12 art education are listed in the Fine Arts section of this Bulletin.

Communication Disorders

The undergraduate and graduate programs in communication disorders are now part of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences in the College of Health Sciences. Prospective students should refer to the Health Sciences section of this Bulletin.

B.A. with a major in Music Education

The requirements for K-12 music education are listed in the Fine Arts section of this Bulletin.

Bachelor Of Science in Agricultural Education, Communications and Leadership

Requirements are listed in the College of Agriculture and School of Human Environmental Sciences section of this Bulletin.

Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences with an option in Family and Consumer Sciences Education

Requirements are listed in the College of Agriculture and School of Human Environmental Sciences section of this Bulletin.

Bachelor of Science in Family Studies with a major in Early Childhood Education

NOTE: At the time of publication, the Bachelor of Science in Family Studies with a major in Early Childhood Education was in the process of moving from the College of Agriculture to the College of Education.

Requirements for this certification program are in the College of Agriculture and School of Human Environmental Sciences section of this Bulletin. Advising for early childhood education is done through that college.

Undergraduate Initial Educator Licensure Programs for Persons Already Holding a Bachelor's Degree

The College of Education offers undergraduate programs leading to initial certification in early elementary education and middle school education for candidates who already hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. These expedited programs are designed to take advantage of candidates' age and life experiences and to shorten the time required for program completion. They do not lead to a UK bachelor's degree. Documents describing these programs are available from Academic Services and Teacher Certification, 166 Taylor Education Building, or from the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, 335 Dickey Hall. All College of Education Admission, Retention and Exit to Teacher Education Programs rules apply to these programs. In addition, candidates must adhere to policies relating to field placements and character and fitness reviews. Interested persons are encouraged to see an advisor before enrolling in any courses associated with these programs.

Business and Marketing Education

Visit the Business and Marketing Education Web site.

Teacher certification in business and marketing education is available at UK through the masters of arts in education with initial certification. Students completing a degree in an area of business may seek admission to the program by contacting Dr. Douglas Smith, Chair, Program Faculty in Business and Marketing Education, Department of Curriculum and Instruction.


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