Teacher Education

GSE is committed to preparing teachers to work in a wide variety of settings and with students of all ages.  Students work with GSE faculty and with partner teachers in schools within and beyond the city to develop the skills and knowledge base they need to begin and continue their teaching careers as strong and effective teachers.

Teacher Education Program (TEP)

Ten-month, intensive masters/certification program with mentored student teaching throughout; commitment to urban education, social justice, and cultivating an inquiry stance toward teaching and learning.

Teach for America (TFA)

In collaboration with Teach For America (TFA), GSE offers TFA corps members placed in Philadelphia with the opportunity to pursue certification and/or a master's degree. The academic program is designed to support the corps member's work in the School District of Philadelphia by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for urban classroom teaching.

Undergraduate Programs: Urban Education Minor

Three seven-course minors, each with a specific focus, lay the groundwork for undergraduates interested in pursuing further study in education; teacher certification is available through an additional ninth semester.

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

This internationally renowned program provides in-depth study of teaching English to speakers of other languages with a special emphasis on practical application. Students take advantage of GSE’s strong partnerships with local schools to engage in observation, field work, and internships.

For more information

Maureen Cotterill, Coordinator of Teacher Education

Dina Portnoy, Director of Teach for America 

Penny Creedon, Coordinator, Language and Literacy in Education Division