Vision of the College of Education
The College of Education is committed to preparing highly competent educators, instructional support personnel, health and wellness professionals, and recreation specialists who serve as ethical decision-makers. Our graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to effectively integrate theory and practice in their respective fields. They will demonstrate cultural competency, technological proficiency, intellectual rigor, and the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities required to make informed decisions, engage in reflective assessment, implement positive change, and embrace lifelong learning.
As an integral part of the university, the College of Education is dedicated to serving the communities of Alabama by supporting and enhancing their educational, health, physical education, and recreational programs. In fulfilling its mission, the College ensures that both initial and advanced programs for teacher preparation, professional education personnel, and wellness professionals align with national, state, professional, and institutional standards.
Mission
Aligned with its vision, the College of Education is committed to providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering research, and engaging in public service. Through these efforts, the College strives to produce highly qualified graduates who will become distinguished professionals in teaching, administration, counseling, instructional supervision, health and physical education, exercise science, coaching, and recreation management.
Goals
- Prepare future educators to meet the diverse educational needs of children, youth, and adults;
- Train instructional and support personnel to effectively contribute to schools, community health initiatives, and recreation programs;
- Develop professionals who promote health, wellness, and lifelong physical activity in school and community settings;
- Assist schools and community organizations in improving instructional, wellness, and recreational programs;
- Conduct research to enhance, expand, and evaluate instructional methodologies, health education strategies, and recreation management practices;
- Provide professional preparation in education, health, physical education, and recreation-related fields that integrate theoretical studies with practical experience, ensuring graduates are career-ready and prepared for advanced study;
- Serve Alabama’s communities by actively supporting and strengthening their educational, health, and recreational initiatives.
Purpose and Objectives for the College of Education
The College of Education’s primary objective is to prepare educators, instructional support personnel, health and wellness professionals, and recreation specialists for roles in schools, community organizations, and recreational facilities. Our programs provide a strong foundation for leadership and responsibility within the education, health, and recreation professions.
Recognizing its vital role in a dynamic and evolving society, the College actively collaborates with university leadership and other academic departments to identify, recruit, and prepare individuals who are equipped to meet the challenges of modern education, health promotion, and physical activity leadership. Our coursework, field experiences, and clinical practice are strategically designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions necessary for graduates to become highly competent and effective professionals in their fields.
Furthermore, the College is committed to maintaining academic and fiscal integrity while continuously responding to the needs of both internal and external stakeholders. As a core component of the university, the College of Education remains steadfast in its mission to serve the communities of Alabama by enhancing and supporting their educational, health, and recreational programs and initiatives.