Q: Why do some majors sound the same? A: Sometimes a major’s name doesn’t fully describe what you will
Teacher licensure JMU has four-year education majors to meet a vital nationwide need for trained and committed teachers. If you’re interested in secondary edu- cation, you also have the option of a five-year Master of Arts in Teaching program. After completing a four-year licensure program, you will have the opportunity to complete one of the Master of Education programs.
study. Read the descriptions to learn more about possible careers.
Q: Does the major I declare matter?
A: Yes, your academic advisor is assigned based on the major you declare for Springboard. It can also affect the courses you take your first semester.
If you wish to pursue the four-year program for secondary education, you must choose secondary education as your major and then choose your content area in the second drop-down box. Specific instructions for declaring the appropriate major are provided within the Orientation Reser- vation & Declaring a Major step. To gain the skills needed for this challenging profession, these majors require additional content, such as a second major, a minor or a content area. Keep in mind that admis- sion to a teacher licensure preparation program is not auto- matic — you must apply after meeting program admission requirements. Please see jmu.edu/coe/academics.shtml for details. Your academic advisor will provide you more infor- mation at Springboard. Graduates who complete JMU’s programs designed to lead to licensure or certification will meet qualifications for initial licensure in the Commonwealth of Virginia. For information about licensure or certification in areas outside Virginia, visit jmu.edu/online/state-authorization/ student-policies/licensure.shtml before enrolling in classes for that major.
Q: Where do I declare my major? A: In the Orientation Reservation & Declaring a Major step. Additional majors and/or minors can be added after fall classes begin.
Q: Can I change my major once I’ve declared it? A: You can! Follow the directions within the Orientation Reservation & Declaring a Major step.
Q: What if I am not ready to declare a major? A: Select Undeclared/Exploratory, and you’ll be assigned to an advi- sor who will guide you through
the decision-making process. You have until the start of your third semester to declare. You also have the option to take UNST 102, a one-credit course designed to help you intentionally explore majors/ minors.
Q: Is there help along the way? A: You will meet with your academic advisor at Spring- board, where they will guide
you through your class schedule, introduce you to campus resources and help you with academic con- cerns. University Advising provides extensive services to help you confirm or choose your major. The Univer- sity Career Center provides resources and opportuni- ties to help prepare you for your career path.
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