Program Director:
Prof. Lee Anne Bell, 335A Milbank; Barnard; 854-9237;lbell@barnard.edu
Program Office:
335-336 Milbank; Barnard; 854-7072

Advisory Committee on Education
Peter Balsam (Psychology, Barnard)
Lee Anne Bell (Education, Barnard)
Mary McGee (Dean of Students, General Studies)
Lesley Sharp (Anthropology, Barnard)
Herb Sloan (History, Barnard)
Kathryn Yatrakis (Dean of Academic Affairs, Columbia College)

The mission of the Barnard College Education Program is to prepare students to become skilled and reflective teachers who can effectively respond to the learning needs of diverse learners and create supportive and intellectually stimulating classroom communities. We are committed to strengthening public education and addressing issues of equity and social justice, particularly in urban schools. The program serves all undergraduates of Barnard College and Columbia University (Columbia College, the School of General Studies and The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science) who are interested in becoming certified teachers, working with young people in human service agencies, or preparing for careers related to education.

Students combine their major or concentration with course work in psychology, educational foundations (courses in history, economics, philosophy, as well as Sociology of education and Contemporary issues in education), pedagogy (Methods of teaching; Seminar in the teaching-learning process), and field-based experience in urban classrooms (Practicum: student teaching). During senior year, students are placed with experienced teachers in New York City public schools for a semester of full-time student teaching.

The Education Program is accredited by the Regents and registered by the New York State Education Department to recommend students who complete the program for initial certification in either childhood education (Grades 1–6) or adolescence education (Grades 7–12). Graduates of the program are also eligible for membership in the Interstate Certification Agreement, a reciprocal certification among forty-one states. We provide ongoing support to those who teach in the New York City area through our New Teacher Network.

To apply, students can download an information packet from the program Web site or pick one up in 336 Milbank. Students may apply for admission any time during the sophomore year but no later than the first Monday in October of the junior year. Those who plan to study abroad during junior year should apply and take the methods and practicum courses by the end of sophomore year. Admission criteria include good academic standing; evidence of commitment to the field of education; interest in issues of social justice as they affect education, particularly in urban schools; and capacity for growth as an intellectually resourceful and reflective teacher. Enrollment in the program is limited.