About the Department

The University of Nebraska at Kearney's teacher education department has been the backbone of the educational system since its beginning as Nebraska State Normal School in 1905. More than likely, if you were educated in Nebraska, your teachers, coaches, principals or superintendent have education credentials from UNK. This history of educating Nebraska's educators brings an unmatched reputation and legacy that our graduates take with them to their schools and throughout their careers.

Here at UNK, students get in the classroom early and often, and our close partnership with Kearney and area schools gives students numerous opportunities to interact in both early practicums and student teaching experiences. We know the value of hands-on learning and we are here to guide you in these field experiences. Teaching is indeed a calling. At UNK, we can help you make a difference in the lives of students – ultimately making a big difference in the world today and tomorrow.

Certification through the American Montessori Society is offered through our Montessori Education programs.

If you would like more information and to visit with our Teacher Education Department please contact us at (308) 865-8825.

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Bailey Branson

“I don’t feel overwhelmed by anything that I’ll be doing in the real world. I feel like I’m very well prepared. The classes here were great. All of my professors were super nice and helpful. It was a great experience here at UNK for sure.”

Bailey Branson

7-12 Social Science Education

Beyond the Classroom

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, you have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, and more. The Teacher Education Department strongly believes in getting students into classrooms early and often. With multiple scholarship and internship options available, you will have the skill-sets that future employers are looking for. 

Student Organizations

  • Collegiate Middle Level (Grades 5-9) Association The purpose of this organization will be to allow Middle Grade Education Majors and all those interested in Middle Grades Education to collaborate, socially and Professionally, to provide an atmosphere where connections are fostered, and to provide opportunities for service learning in Middle Grades area.
  • ELED ELED tours education facilities, listens to speakers, volunteers, and gets involved on campus and in the community. ELED has monthly meetings and helps to make our members more aware of their resources in the community and on campus.
  • Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education, was established to foster excellence in education and promote fellowship among those dedicated to teaching. Minimum GPA of 3.5 and initiation required.
  • Aspiring Educators (formerly S.E.A.N) Aspiring Educators (formerly S.E.A.N) is a University of Nebraska-Kearney campus organization that is open to all education majors. We are an affiliate of the Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA), and the National Educational Association (NEA).
  • Secondary Educators' Club The object of this organization will be to provide support and connections through the College of Education and content areas to any student pursuing a teaching career in secondary education.
  • S.O. College Club - UNK Our mission is to unite college students and people with developmental disabilities to enhance their lives through sport, friendship, advocacy and other activities.
  • Future Educators of Color (FEoC) Provide incoming and continuing minoritized students in the field of education a space for engagement, mentorship, leadership and professional development opportunities, critical reflection, support, and community building with other minoritized students in fields of education.

Internships

With multiple internship opportunities, UNK's Teacher Education Department allows students to get into classrooms as early as their freshman year. This allows our students to develop their skill-sets early, which makes them admirable to future employers.

Scholarships

  • Scholarships Scholarships are available to all students at UNK, and are divided by resident and non-resident applications.
  • Continuing Student Scholarships Eligible students may apply for the Continuing Student Scholarships each year from February 1 through midnight on the last day of February by accessing the online application on MyBLUE.