Curriculum
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Requirements | 45 - 48 | |
| Major Requirements | 31 - 37 | |
| Major Subject Area | 49 | |
| Total Hours | 125-134 | |
NOTE: Check with the Chair of the Secondary Education Department for possible changes in this major.
Core Curriculum - 45 - 48 Credits
Concordia Common Core -
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Theology - Public Education | ||
| REL 1000 |
The Bible
This course is an overview of the Bible intended to acquaint the student with its background, content, and messages. This introductory course satisfies the core curriculum requirement for Bible content for students who are not in a program that requires the enhanced church-work core. | 3 |
| REL 1100 |
Christian Faith
This course is an overview of Christian theology intended to acquaint the student with key theological concepts as they relate to everyday life. This introductory course satisfies the core curriculum requirement for Christian doctrine for students who are not in a program that requires the enhanced church-work core. | 3 |
| Theology - Lutheran (LTD) & Christian (CTC) | ||
| REL 2010 |
Old Testament
This course is an overview of the Old Testament intended to acquaint the student with its background, content, and messages. This introductory course satisfies the core curriculum requirement for Bible content, but students who take it must also take REL 2020 New Testament elsewhere in their programs. It is required for students in a church-work program. | 3 |
| REL 2020 |
New Testament
This course presents an overview of the New Testament intended to acquaint the student with its background, content, and messages. The New Testament is read with a focus on the life of Jesus, his teaching and miracles, death and resurrection. The other major people of New Testament are also studied through their writings, especially the apostles Paul, Peter, and John. | 3 |
| REL 2030 |
Biblical Theology
This course is a systematic study of major areas of Christian doctrine with an emphasis on what Scripture says, as well as how Lutheran doctrine reflects what Scripture teaches. This introductory course satisfies the core curriculum requirement for Christian doctrine, and is required for students in a church-work program. Note: For registration, enrollment in a church-work program or permission of the instructor is required. | 3 |
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CCE 1010 |
Christian Citizen
This course serves as a Freshman Seminar and provides a common intellectual experience to all students by engaging students in important questions, discussions, and activities on responsible social action and civic engagement as a Christian citizen. The course defines citizenship broadly—-wishing to be good neighbors as well as good citizens—-while looking at citizenship from both a Christian and secular context. Based on readings and resources students will explore vocation and are encouraged to live out their vocations as student, citizen, neighbor, professional, and Christian in a thoughtful and constructive manner. As service is essential to citizenship, the course creates an opportunity for students to engage in moral discernment, active engagement and service at the local, national, and/or international level(s). This class is part of the Common Concordia Core required for all traditional students. | 3 |
| CCE 1020 |
Western Culture & Worldview
This course explores the underpinnings of Western Culture by focusing on crucial historical/cultural moments and the artifacts these civilizations produced. The Classical heritage and Christianity (at least as practiced in Europe and America) have both competed and cooperated for 2000 years, and the work in this class will highlight their interactions that define a Western Christian worldview in the present moment. Through a study of these developments, students will be able to situate themselves culturally and better engage worldviews and cultures other than their own. | 3 |
| CCE 1030 |
Western Thought & Worldview
This course is a Christ-centered reflection on the great conversation between the leading minds of Western philosophy. Mindful of Paul’s admonition to avoid captivity to ideas contrary to Christ, and equipped with the tools of logic and worldview analysis, students engage the great ideas of ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary philosophy. Along the way, students are trained to give clear definitions, to state worthwhile theses, and to defend them with cogent arguments. There is a particular emphasis on defending the merits of a biblical understanding of the world (apologetics), living a Christian life (ethics) and the relevance of philosophy (evaluating and applying worldviews) to our many vocations. This class is part of the Common Concordia Core required for all traditional students. | 3 |
| CCE 1040 |
Science & Humanity
This interdisciplinary course promotes scientific literacy by developing student understanding of how the natural sciences, social sciences, and technology are practiced, while at the same time providing the foundation for the required lab sciences and social sciences courses. By focusing on both the natural and social sciences, students will learn the types of questions asked by each, the ways knowledge is acquired in each, and how to evaluate the claims made by each. The increased impact of computer science (modelling, algorithms, big data) on science and society will also be covered. Ethical considerations of the uses of scientific knowledge form a key part of this course.
| 3 |
| Liberal Arts Dimensions | ||
| ENG 1040 |
Introduction to Writing
This course is designed for the student with a good background in writing, focuses on the process of written expression, and gives practice in dealing with the various modes of discourse from free writing through research. | 3 |
| COMM 1100 |
Public Speaking
This course considers the fundamentals of giving speeches that are informative, persuasive, inspirational, or entertaining. Students learn to manage speech tension, use vocal variety, improve delivery, and organize and support effective presentations with research and visual aids. | 3 |
| or COMM 2100 | Interpersonal Communication | |
| Faith and Life Elective: Any course with REL prefix other than REL 1000, 1100, 2010, 2020, 2030 | 3 | |
| ED 1102 |
Foundations of Education
This course is a critical examination of the forces that have shaped formal and informal education, especially as they affect American urban education. The course will review historical, philosophical, theological, social, scientific, and technological contributions that have influenced the American educational system. From this foundation, students will be encouraged to explore contemporary issues in American education as they consider their future roles in the teaching profession. This course will be taught with computer technology integrated throughout the course. This course serves as the first required professional course for teaching education students at Concordia University Wisconsin. | 3 |
| HHP 1100 |
Stewardship of the Body
This course explores how physical activity and exercise enhance wellness in our lives. | 1 |
| HHP Activity Course | 1 | |
| Human Creativity and Expression: Art (This requirement is satisfied within art coursework). | 3 | |
| MATH 1250 |
Contemporary Math
This course presents problem solving, structure and properties of the real number systems, number theory, principles of descriptive and inferential statistics, probability and geometry topics. Emphasis is on application to real life situations. | 3 |
| or MATH 1280 | College Algebra | |
| SCI 1100 |
Introduction to Life and Physical Sciences
This course provides education and athletic training students with an understanding of the nature of science and how it coheres with a Christian worldview. Inquiry-based experiences in physical, life, earth space, and environmental sciences reinforce content areas and practices addressed by state and national science standards. Laboratory course. | 4 |
| ED 1103 |
Human Relations for Teachers
This course is an interaction laboratory course designed to help candidates improve their interpersonal relationship skills and acquire competence in facilitating human relations activities in the classroom. Candidates will examine their attitudes and values toward and improve their techniques in working with learners, parents, colleagues, and community and minority groups. This course serves as an introduction of human relations' components to education majors.
| 3 |
| Note: Two CUW - approved writing intensive courses are required for graduation. Other Electives if under 120 credits: | 3-6 | |
K-12 CURRICULUM - 31 - 37 credits
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ED 1000 |
Orientation Seminar
This course is a seminar for education majors who have not yet obtained Upper Division Status. This course orients students to the education program and the process of achieving Upper Division Status. Major components include an introduction to clinical experiences and program requirements. Students should register for ED 1000 their first semester in the education program and must pass this course. This course is pass/fail. | 0 |
| ED 2000 |
UDS Seminar
This course is a seminar for education majors who have obtained or are working toward obtaining Upper Division Status (UDS). UDS seminar orients students to required content knowledge exams, pre-student teaching, and completing degree requirements. Students should register for ED 2000 during the semester in which they plan to complete Portfolio II and apply for UDS. | 0 |
| ED 3000 |
Student Teaching Seminar
This course is a seminar for education majors who are preparing for the student teaching experience. Major components include Portfolio III, requirements and information for the student teaching experience, and edTPA. Students should register for ED 3000 in the semester prior to their planned student teaching experience. | 0 |
| Theoretical & Practical Components | ||
| ED 1230 |
Nature of the Exceptional Child
This course is designed to introduce the education student to a study of the major characteristics of all disabilities and gifted students as defined by state and federal law in order to provide for their needs in the general education classroom. The course provides significant foundational theories and practices for understanding special education as a discipline, legal requirements for Special Education services including IEPs, and rights and responsibilities of parents, teachers, other professionals and schools related to children with exceptional needs. Students learn about characteristics of learners, assessments used to diagnose them, support services, and how to create instructional and behavioral strategies for exceptional learners in the general education classroom. This course includes a field experience component. | 3 |
| ED 1275 |
Human Learning
This course explores theories of human development, learning, and motivation from a brain-based perspective. Students will be actively engaged in the learning process through a variety of assignments and activities including clinicals, presentations, reflections, and other experiences to enhance understanding and application of brain-based learning theory in the classroom. This course includes a field experience component. | 3 |
| ED 3318 |
The Art & Science of Planning
This course will prepare pre-service teachers to implement developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate teaching approaches that enhance young children’s learning and development, with an emphasis on the nature and functions of play. Curriculum design, goal development, and assessment strategies will be examined. This course will include a clinical experience in which pre-service teachers will use a play assessment tool to document the types of play and determine next steps to support the development of a young child. Learners will also use a readiness checklist to observe fine and gross motor skills | 3 |
| ED 4337 |
The Art and Science of Assessment
This course covers research-based assessment strategies for determining both learner progress and instructional effectiveness. Both formative and summative assessments strategies will be created. Teacher candidates will learn fundamentals of assessment data analysis that will help inform next steps for instruction. Emphasis on appropriate feedback and means by which learners can implement that feedback to their continued learning will be taught. In addition, strategies for integrating academic language into assessment strategies will be covered. Taken concurrently with ED 4339. | 3 |
| ED 4339 |
The Art and Science of Instruction
This course covers research-based instructional strategies that engage and deepen the learner's understanding of focused content. This course also looks at general teaching practices that allow for successful implementation of lesson plans. In addition, this course covers classroom management strategies supported by research and theory. Taken concurrently with ED 4337. | 3 |
| ED 4411 |
The Profession and Ethics of Teaching
This course is the capstone course of the education program, ideally taken just prior to student teaching. This course emphasizes key tenets of the profession: school law; ethics and judgment of educators, including conflict mediation and resolution; legal responsibilities of teachers; finding and securing a meaningful job, including the Call process to a Lutheran school; and ongoing professional development. | 3 |
| Student Teaching Component (Take these courses in the same semester) | ||
| ED 4414 |
Portfolio Completion-Secondary
This course is the culminating portfolio presentation that provides verification that the teacher candidate has completed all Wisconsin licensure requirements at that time. Recognizing that reflective, concerned, and competent teachers develop from a multitude of unique abilities and experiences, Concordia’s teacher education program encourages the cultivation of unique, well-rounded teacher candidates. Since traditional evaluation procedures that focus on tests and grades fail to reveal the whole picture of the teacher education student, Concordia has instituted the portfolio process, which seeks to provide a more personal reflection of the unique abilities and accomplishments of each teacher education student. The final portfolio presentation provides evidence of the teacher candidate’s proficiency in and application of the Wisconsin Teaching Standards with artifacts from student teaching. The Wisconsin Department of Instruction can change license requirements in the future so students should consider applying for license shortly after receiving endorsement. | 1 |
| ED 4452 |
Secondary Education Student Teaching
This course provides a culminating clinical experience for students who will receive a teaching license for secondary education. | 12 |
| Lutheran (LCMS Members) Teacher Diploma Requirements | ||
| ED 2306 |
Teaching the Faith
This course helps the student develop knowledge of resources and skills necessary to teach religion in the elementary or secondary classroom. This course is required for Lutheran education majors. Students will explore theological, relational, social, and educational issues related to teaching the faith. While focusing upon topics and issues related to a Lutheran school setting, much of what is explored will be useful as one considers present and future vocations in parish, family or other educational settings. Note: Completion of Core theology courses is a requirement prior to taking this class. | 3 |
| REL 4000 |
Lutheran Confessions
This course is an overview of the historical background and major teachings of the documents of The Book of Concord, the confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Students will explore the confessional heritage of the Lutheran tradition as expressed in the ancient creeds and in confessions of the Lutheran Reformation, which serve as norm for contemporary teaching and practice among Lutherans and as a model for confessing the faith today. | 3 |
| Christian Teacher Certification Requirements | ||
| ED 2306 |
Teaching the Faith
This course helps the student develop knowledge of resources and skills necessary to teach religion in the elementary or secondary classroom. This course is required for Lutheran education majors. Students will explore theological, relational, social, and educational issues related to teaching the faith. While focusing upon topics and issues related to a Lutheran school setting, much of what is explored will be useful as one considers present and future vocations in parish, family or other educational settings. Note: Completion of Core theology courses is a requirement prior to taking this class. | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| REL 4000 |
Lutheran Confessions
This course is an overview of the historical background and major teachings of the documents of The Book of Concord, the confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Students will explore the confessional heritage of the Lutheran tradition as expressed in the ancient creeds and in confessions of the Lutheran Reformation, which serve as norm for contemporary teaching and practice among Lutherans and as a model for confessing the faith today. | 3 |
| REL 3860 |
Law and Gospel in the Life of the Church
Law and Gospel in the Life of the Church leads the student to see more clearly the significance of two major Christian doctrines and the correct relationship between them for a Christian’s life. Sections of Scripture, of the Lutheran Confessions, and of current theological literature are analyzed in the light of these fundamental teachings. | 3 |
| REL 3500 |
A Survey of Christian Thought
A Survey of Christian Thought examines how Christians have probed and presented the mystery and majesty of God's interaction with human beings, from early Christian writers to modern theologians. With a focus on close reading of primary sources, discussion, and writing, this course familiarizes students with some of the most influential thinkers of Christianity, allowing them to explore themes that have fascinated generations of Christians through the centuries. | 3 |
| PHIL 3250 |
Christian Apologetics
This course is an introduction to the art of defending the truth claims of the Christian faith. Students learn the biblical warrant for apologetics, the merits of rival methodologies, and study philosophical, scientific, and historical evidences. They are equipped to respond to the skeptical challenges of atheism and the contrary claims of rival religions. | 3 |
| PHIL 3340 |
Christ and Culture
This course examines the interaction between the Christian and the surrounding culture in both Western and non-Western settings. The classic typology of H. Richard Niebuhr is presented and critically evaluated. The implications of the doctrines of vocation and of the two kingdoms are explored. Public theology is defined, and students learn to appreciate the distinctive approaches to public theology within different denominations. A wide range of contemporary issues facing the Christian is studied. Throughout the course, there is particular emphasis of the merits of the Lutheran “paradox” model for interaction with culture, along with due consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of other models. | 3 |
- 2
Course requires Upper Division Status
- 3
ED4337 and ED4339 are taken concurrently the Fall prior to student teaching.
Major Requirements - 49 credits
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Art Courses | ||
| ART 1500 |
2-Dimensional Design
Explore the realm of '2-Dimensional Design', a course intricately woven around the concept of the world as a masterpiece of divine creation. Delve into the intriguing interplay of human design perceptions as mirrored in nature, applied to the structuring of pictorial spaces. Engage in a series of visual exercises spanning both monochrome and vibrant colors. This journey will not only heighten your awareness of the inherent design in our world but also refine your prowess in image manipulation. Join us for an enlightening adventure in design! | 3 |
| ART 1510 |
Observational Drawing
Observational Drawing presents a dynamic and meticulously structured curriculum in drawing, serving as a cornerstone for students majoring in art, art education, graphic design, illustration, and interior design. The course emphasizes technical mastery, precise perception, and effective visual communication. Engaging deeply with both perceptual and conceptual themes, students will experiment with a diverse range of black and white media. Please note, a studio fee is applicable.
| 3 |
| ART 1050 |
Ceramic Fundamentals
Explore the dynamic world of ceramics in 'Ceramic Fundamentals,' where you'll master the art of hand-building techniques including pinch, coil, and slab construction. Dive into an array of surface treatments and decorative methods, enriching your artistic expression. Gain in-depth knowledge of clay body formulation, along with the intricacies of glaze composition and application. Experience the diversity of firing processes, from the traditional charm of primitive pit fires to the precision of electric kiln oxidation and the unique raku technique. | 3 |
| ART 1520 |
Creative Workshop: 2D Art
Creative Workshop: 2D Art presents a dynamic opportunity for students to engage with a diverse array of two-dimensional mediums, encompassing Printmaking, Watercolor, and Bookmaking.
| 3 |
| ART 1530 |
Creative Workshop: 3D Art
"Creative Workshop: 3D Art" presents an invigorating opportunity for students to engage with an array of three-dimensional mediums, encompassing the intricate art of Loomweaving, the translucent beauty of glasswork, and the dynamic world of sculpture. | 3 |
| ART 2540 |
Mixed Media Drawing
Embark on an exciting journey into the world of illustration in this enriching academic offering. Mixed Media Drawing is designed to provide students with a robust and engaging learning experience, blending academic rigor with creative exploration. Delve into diverse drawing media, sharpen technical proficiency, achieve perceptual accuracy, and master visual communication skills. Explore traditional and non-traditional media, while engaging in drrawing experiences to deepen your understanding of perceptual and conceptual issues. Join us and unlock your creative potential while mastering the art of drawing in a dynamic and inspiring academic environment.
| 3 |
| ART 2560 |
Painting
Welcome to the dynamic realm of artistic expression in our Introduction to Oil Painting Techniques of the masters course. Dive into concept development, canvas preparation, color theory, and paint application, unleashing your creative potential. Learn to present and critically analyze your work while enjoying the option to explore oil-based media with instructor approval. This immersive journey promises to elevate your artistic skills and ignite your passion for painting. Join us and let your creativity flourish on canvas as you unlock the boundless potential of your artistic talents.
| 3 |
| or ART 1550 | Color Theory Application | |
| ART 2000 |
Art History I
Explore the captivating journey of artistic evolution in Art History I. This course spans from prehistory to the early Renaissance, unveiling the major stylistic periods within Western Civilization. Dive into the intricate web of events, personalities, philosophies, and beliefs that influenced each artistic era, providing a foundation for interpretation and evaluation. Gain the skills to analyze and appreciate art's diverse facets, igniting your passion for the world's artistic heritage. Join us in this exciting academic expedition to unlock the secrets of human creativity and expression.
| 3 |
| ART 2010 |
Art History II
Art History II: Exploring the Evolution of Western Art offers a captivating exploration of major stylistic periods in Western art history, spanning from the early Italian Renaissance to the present day. Emphasizing events, influential forces, personalities, philosophical movements, and beliefs, this course provides a solid foundation for interpretation and evaluation of art. Engage in stimulating discussions, gain critical thinking skills, and immerse yourself in the world of creativity. Join us on this exciting academic journey, unlock the secrets of art, and let your passion flourish in a welcoming learning environment
| 3 |
| Technology Courses | ||
| GD 1500 |
Digital Vector Design
Digital Vector Design: Mastering Macintosh and Adobe Creative Cloud is a comprehensive course that immerses students in the Macintosh computing platform, Adobe Illustrator Creative Cloud, and Adobe InDesign Creative Cloud. This course empowers students with the essential skills needed to manipulate digital vectors effectively for communication design. Additionally, it introduces critical digital pre-press concepts to ensure flawless execution of designs in the real world. Join us on this exciting journey to unlock your potential as a communication designer!
| 3 |
| GD 1510 |
Digital Raster Design
Embark on an exciting journey through the world of photo compositing, where you'll unleash your creative talents using the incredible capabilities of Adobe Photoshop. Our course, 'Digital Raster Design,' immerses you in a rich learning experience that provides a deep understanding of Photoshop, giving you the confidence to master the art of image manipulation for communication design. Delve into the captivating realm of digital image manipulation, introductory animation, and motion graphics, and watch your design horizons expand. Whether you're just starting or an experienced student designer, this course guarantees an exhilarating adventure as you unlock the full potential of creating mesmerizing composite imagery. Gain essential skills to thrive in the creative industry. Join us today and witness your creativity reaching new heights like never before! | 3 |
| Required Art Education Courses | ||
| AE 2500 |
Elementary Art Education: Theory and Practice
Elementary Art Education: Theory and Practice offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to innovative teaching methodologies tailored for the elementary art classroom. In this course, students will delve into both classic and avant-garde instructional strategies, explore effective classroom management techniques, and learn about the intricacies of designing art facilities. Additionally, the course provides insightful guidance on budgeting, ensuring safety, and addressing curricular topics in the realm of visual arts. Prerequisites for enrollment include successful completion of a minimum of one 100-level studio course or approval from the instructor.
| 3 |
| AE 3500 |
Secondary Art Education: Theory and Practice
Secondary Methods in Art Education offers a dynamic exploration of teaching art in secondary schools, anchored in a deep understanding of preadolescent and adolescent developmental stages. This engaging course covers key areas such as the significance of art activities in secondary education, nuanced insights into preadolescent and adolescent growth, crafting and executing curricula that resonate with these developmental stages, insightful evaluation methodologies, and robust classroom tactics. Prepare to be immersed in an academic journey that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering effective art education strategies.
| 3 |
| AE 3510 |
Curriculum Design in Art Education
"Curriculum Design in Art Education" is an invigorating course crafted for students eager to delve into the architecture and crafting of effective art education curricula. This program offers an in-depth exploration of diverse existing curriculum guides, assessing their coherence, responsiveness to children's developmental stages, interdisciplinary approaches, and explicit classroom application. Participants will engage in the dynamic process of creating and executing comprehensive unit and lesson plans, preparing them for a future in transformative art education.
| 3 |
| ART 4800 |
Senior Portfolio/Exhibition
Discover the pinnacle of your academic journey in Senior Portfolio/Exhibition! In this capstone course, designed exclusively for seniors majoring in Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Interior Architecture and Design, Photography, Art Education and Art, you'll embark on an exhilarating adventure. Craft a captivating professional portfolio, showcasing your skills through compelling documentary evidence, and curate an impressive exhibition displayed at the CU Art Gallery and online. Elevate your artistic career and embark on this thrilling final chapter of your undergraduate experience!
| 1 |
| Art Electives in a studio specialization (choose 2 - 6 credits total) | ||
| ART 1020 |
Digital Imaging Fundamentals
Digital Imaging Fundamentals offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the art of photography and digital image manipulation using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. The curriculum encompasses a range of topics: from landscape and portrait photography to close-up shots, mastering lighting techniques, and the nuanced use of color and monochrome. This course not only imparts technical skills but also inspires students to unleash their creativity and capture the world's beauty through their lenses. Please note, participants must have access to a digital or phone camera.
| 3 |
| ART 3500 |
Figure Drawing
Unlock the art of capturing the human form in our Figure Drawing course. Explore historical precedents, delve into human anatomy, and experiment with various artistic media to elevate your figure representation skills. Gain insights from art history, master anatomical intricacies, and unleash your creativity while developing the ability to compose compelling narratives through the positioning of figures. This one-semester course offers an engaging and personalized in-person learning experience, suitable for both aspiring and experienced artists. Join us and embark on an exciting artistic journey, enrolling today to bring the human form to life on canvas.
| 3 |
| GD 3510 |
Creative Pixel Studio
Welcome to Creative Pixel Studio, where you'll dive into the practical aspects of web design techniques and technology. This course equips you with a solid foundation in portfolio website design, encompassing online site builders, Content Management Systems (CMS), HTML, CSS, and introductory Javascript. Learn to seamlessly integrate these tools into your workflow, guiding your website from initial concept to final execution. Hands-on experience is a core element, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Please note that a studio fee covers essential resources for your creative journey. Join us and unleash your creativity in the dynamic world of web design. Enroll now and embark on this exciting adventure! | 3 |
| GD 3520 |
Web Design Solutions
Welcome to Advanced Web Design Solutions! This captivating course builds upon foundational web design skills, seamlessly blending UX/UI principles to create sophisticated web and app solutions. You'll gain hands-on experience with Adobe XD, master advanced CSS techniques, explore jQuery for interactivity, and strengthen your HTML skills. Prerequisite: Basic web design courses completion and a studio fee. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a budding talent, join us to elevate your web design expertise and craft exceptional digital experiences. Enroll today to unlock your creative potential! | 3 |
NOTE: All licensable majors and minors require that students pass applicable content examinations for licensure in the state of Wisconsin.
NOTE: Art Education is licensable as a K-12 program only.