Foundations of Teacher Education
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 105222 | FTED | 61.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hybrid | Available | 10784 | La Crosse | Education & Human Services |
The Foundations of Teacher Education associate degree program prepares you to engage with students of diverse ages and varying ability levels while operating under the guidance and supervision of a licensed teacher. You will be well-equipped for a fulfilling career as a paraprofessional or educational assistant, offering invaluable support services to school-age students. While this program prepares graduates to serve in a variety of educational contexts, it places a primary emphasis on roles in elementary and middle-level schools.
Graduates of this program possess the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective instructional strategies, enabling you to assist students with a wide array of academic tasks, including mathematics, science, reading, and writing assignments, in addition to other instructional activities. You will be adept at monitoring student progress, providing individualized support, facilitating small group activities, and offering one-on-one tutoring. Moreover, you'll play an integral role in enhancing the classroom environment by contributing to classroom displays, aiding students with computer and media-related tasks, and overseeing various classroom and school events.
Western's Foundations of Teacher Education program is fully compliant with Title I requirements and fulfills the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for paraprofessionals. Furthermore, graduates of this program have the opportunity to transfer to several universities offering bachelor degree programs in Elementary Education or Special Education.
In addition, this program links directly to an apprenticeship pathway, providing hands-on, on-the-job learning opportunities. Learn about the Educational Assistant Apprenticeship.
To view the Foundations of Teacher Education program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Additional Requirements
- High School or GED/HSED Transcript
To enroll in the Foundations of Teacher Education Associate Degree program, first apply for admission to the College, then complete a background check. You can find the link to the background check document below:
Career Opportunities
Instructional Assistant
Special Education Paraprofessional
Early Education Teacher
Teacher Assistant
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate instructional support strategies for content areas
- Implement developmentally appropriate practices to foster learning
- Adapt instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners
- Use proactive classroom management techniques
- Perform professional responsibilities
- Incorporate the reflective process to promote professional growth
Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025
| Graduates | 24 |
|---|---|
| Graduates Responding | 10 |
| Employed In Related Occupation | 4 |
| Employed In Non-related Occupations | 1 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 5 |
| Not In Labor Market | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation | 1 |
| PT Average Hours per Week | 28 |
| PT Median Hourly Wage | $20.13 |
| PT Hourly Wage Range | $20.13 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation | 3 |
| FT Average Hours per Week | 38 |
| FT Median Hourly Wage | $17.58 |
| FT Hourly Wage Range | $15.90 - $19.26 |
| FT Median Annual Salary | $21,000 |
| Related Occupations | Educational Assistant, Special Education Para |
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
Program Supplemental Information (PDF)
Program Contact
Jennifer Pickering
Program Chair, Foundations of Teacher Education
608-789-6038
picerkingj@westerntc.edu
Career Pathways
This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.
Prior Learning
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.
Certificates
There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.
Technical Diplomas
Associate Degrees
University Transfer
Courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10522106 - EDU: Child & Adol Dev | 3.00 |
| 10522112 - EDU: Equity in Education | 3.00 |
| 10522103 - EDU: Intro to Ed Practices | 3.00 |
| 10522104 - EDU: Technology in Ed | 3.00 |
| 10801136 - English Composition I | 3.00 |
| 10890106 - Strengths Seminar | 1.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10804107 - College Mathematics | 3.00 |
| 10522105 - EDU: Behavior Management | 3.00 |
| 10522107 - EDU: Overview of Spec Ed | 3.00 |
| 10522129 - EDU: Practicum 1 | 3.00 |
| 10522102 - EDU: Techniques in Reading | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10522108 - EDU: Soc Emot Learning & Mental Hlth | 3.00 |
| 10522124 - EDU: Supporting Stu w/Disab | 3.00 |
| 10522120 - EDU: Techniques in Science | 3.00 |
| 10809198 - Intro to Psychology | 3.00 |
| 10801196 - Oral/Interpersonal Comm | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10522131 - EDU: Practicum 2 | 3.00 |
| 10522114 - EDU: Techniques in Lang Arts | 3.00 |
| 10522118 - EDU: Techniques in Math | 3.00 |
| 10522119 - EDU: Techniques in Soc Stu | 3.00 |
| 10809172 - Introduction to Diversity Studies | 3.00 |