Educational Studies

Galen E. Benson, Associate Professor

Carol C. Burbee, Assistant Professor

Nikki Gamrath, Professor

Stephanie L. Lovseth, Assistant Professor

Lauren M. Stewart, Professor

The B.A. in Educational Studies prepares students to contribute to a variety of educational contexts. This major does not lead to teacher licensure. Graduates will have in-depth knowledge of educational theory, group management, building learning communities, and experience putting theory into practice through lesson and curriculum design. Students will develop strong skills in communication, critical thinking, experiential learning, inquiry-based teaching and learning, leadership, and the use of technology. The Educational Studies department offers a B.A. in Educational Studies with a choice of two different concentrations.

Students pursuing a B.A. in Educational Studies with a concentration in Educational Theory and Practice will visit a wide variety of schools which will contribute to their knowledge of the American educational system. Students will consider the role of teachers, learners, parents, community members, and leaders in educational reform. This topic will be explored in terms of both past and present efforts to design an educational system which supports learning for all students. Graduates are encouraged to use the Educational Studies major to expand the potential use of the content gained in a second major. The skills gained during the course of this major will be valuable to students who want to pursue consulting, training, facilitating, group management, teaching at all levels, involvement in higher education, and other leadership roles.

The B.A. in Educational Studies with a concentration in Outdoor & Experiential Education takes advantage of Principia College’s 2,600 acre campus, which sits on top of limestone bluffs that tower over the Mississippi River. We use the beautiful and untamed portions of campus to give our students experiences that emphasize leadership, outdoor program design, environmental ethics, outdoor education, adventure education, experiential teaching and learning theories and methods, program planning and delivery, team building, lesson plan design, hard and soft skill development, and communication skills.

Graduates will not only be confident in their ability to design, lead, and evaluate outdoor pursuits, but will also understand the subtleties involved with designing experiential and hands-on learning opportunities for multiple other venues, including in a traditional classroom setting. This program reflects Principia’s commitment to experiential education and interdisciplinary learning. Graduates may go on to have careers as outdoor guides, challenge course facilitators, interpretive center guides or directors, outfitters, park rangers, camp directors, environmental program designers, or eco-tourism guides. Graduates will be recognized for their strengths in the areas of leadership, group facilitation, communication, interpersonal skills, and moral character.