Early Childhood and Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 6): Your coursework in the first two years focuses on developing a foundational knowledge of teaching and learning. The final two years dive into specific strategies for promoting literacy, developing teaching methods across content areas, and fostering an effective classroom for all learners. The program culminates with full-time student teaching in the final semester. 

Adolescence Education (Dual Major): In the first three years, you will focus on content area major requirements and four foundational education courses. In your senior year, you will focus on instructional methods and fieldwork in the fall and complete your student teaching in the spring.

You will be well-prepared and confident to take on the role of teacher upon graduation. 

• Siena University undergraduate teaching programs feature interactive courses where you are encouraged to make connections between theory and practice as you prepare to become a classroom teacher.
• All education courses require a field experience component where you participate in local schools.
• The final year includes a robust student teaching experience with extensive support. You will work side-by-side with hand-selected mentor teachers who guide you throughout the school year.

Siena's programs are designed to be inclusive, emphasizing culturally responsive teaching practices. They prepare you to effectively instruct all students, including those with disabilities, learning English as a new language, and from minoritized groups.

You will also learn skills to prepare your future students to be culturally competent and anti-discriminatory.

Siena University offers scholarships through the New York State My Brother's Keeper Teacher Opportunity Corps program for qualified candidates from historically underrepresented groups.  

Siena University will match you with a mentor teacher in your student teaching location, ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need from your mentor during your student teaching year.

You will also receive support from college supervisors, who regularly observe your teaching and provide feedback for continuous growth. 

Faculty and staff at Siena University work continually to ensure the curriculum and instruction meet the demands of the teaching profession and align with state and national standards.

The program staff works with an Alumni Council and an Advisory Council, which provide continual feedback on school changes and trends. This feedback ensures that the faculty and curriculum meet the needs of current Siena students.