Welcome to the School of Education (SoE) at Black Hills State University (BHSU). We offer bachelor's and master's degrees to meet the needs of educators, so whether you are a current or prospective student, a parent, a candidate for BHSU employment, a fellow educator, or one of our BHSU supporters, we invite you to explore and find out more about us.
You will find that our School of Education provides an exceptional environment for all who work and learn here. We foster a climate in which our students can thrive. We have attracted a faculty with remarkable credentials. We have high-quality, learner-centered programs that respond to the changing needs of lifelong learners.
Dr. Faye LaDuke-Pelster, Chair for the School of Education
I would describe Black Hills State University as just a really comfortable, yet exciting place to be. The size of our institution and the fact that it really lends itself to that teacher-to-student relationship in terms of being able to know your students and size of the classes that you're in, having a connection with an academic advisor. I think the size of Black Hills State University lends itself to that.
Paciencia Lachman, Elementary Education
Student to faculty ratio, all classes are really really reasonable. It's never too many. I feel like I know all my professors and my professors know me. And I really feel involved in the classroom and a part of this community and I feel like other colleges might not have that opportunity.
Julia Hatling, South Park Elementary School Principal
I felt like I had a really close relationship with my professors, and I always knew what we were doing and why, and how that was going to benefit me in the classroom. They had such high expectations for us, and they really keep a pulse on what schools in the area need, what the field of education requires of the teachers.
The curriculum that they provided was second to none. Stuff we were doing in class is stuff that I still use in my career. Lesson plans, scopes and sequences, so everything I was doing in class is something that I'm actually doing in my career. One of the things that the professors did that was very impactful was bringing in pre-K students for us to interact with and teach, rather than us teaching our peers. Very different having five year olds playing your game compared to 20 some year olds running around trying to do it.
Katie Clark, Elementary & Special Education
With the Elementary Ed and the Special Ed programs, they both offer many practicum experiences where we get inside the classroom, and we get to observe or we get to do hands-on, and start teaching. And just all those experiences have made me feel more confident in myself to become a better teacher. And just, like, getting excited about being in the classroom. Like, I know some universities, they don't start practicums until your junior year. But they start from freshman year and they get you involved, and then you know that you want to be an Education major.
Julia Hatling, South Park Elementary School Principal
I feel very fortunate to be in a district that's in such close proximately to Black Hills State. They offer continuous professional development for all of our staff here in the Belle Fourche school district, and it's an ongoing relationship that I value for my in-service teachers as well as pre-service teachers. We have a lot of student teachers who are placed in our buildings. We really count on that relationship for ongoing professional development, which is very meaningful.
Remi Wientjes, Creekside Elementary, 3rd Grade
Really making sure that you are in the classroom early so you really got to see raw experiences from what it is actually like to be a teacher. And so you weren't just sitting in the classroom the entire time learning all these different strategies but not putting them into use. The memory that I think would stand out the most would have to be when you're in the methods block. That's kind of just a semester where you're almost done with student teaching and everything, but you're kind of just in the trenches with all the other teachers or all the other students learning to be teachers. And you just become a really close knit group, and you guys do everything together. One of the times I know we were studying for a big final that we had, and it was just cool to look out and see 20 people together in a group all studying and wanting the same thing. And how we all just were so filled with a lot of, like, determination in order to become the best teachers we possibly could, and just making sure we were seeing a situation from every angle. You could tell that we were dedicated, and that BH produced some pretty dedicated people to want to really make an impact in other kids' lives.
Dr. Sydney Haugland, School of Education, Assistant Professor
Sometimes as a smaller university that you may be looking at several universities, taking time to visit with faculty, check in with students, really allows you to understand if it's going to be a good fit. And I know that once I an advisee, I follow up with them. I want to make sure that they're feeling connected to their classes. If they need help, we reach out consistently on a regular basis, and we support them in finding that next step after BH. So to me, it's just really important to visit with the faculty, get a chance to get to know students, so that you can make the best decision for yourself when you're choosing your university.
Becoming an education major can be a gratifying and purposeful career path with several compelling reasons to pursue it.
Education majors have the unique opportunity to shape and influence the lives of young learners by helping them grow and succeed in the classroom.
Educators play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society by promoting diversity, tolerance, and understanding among students.
Pre-service teachers hone their skills with effective communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities, which are integral to successful teaching.
The demand for skilled educators continues to be strong. With the ongoing need for qualified teachers in schools, pursuing an education major can provide stable job prospects and job security.
Education majors often enjoy a supportive and collaborative community of fellow educators and professionals who share a passion for learning and teaching. This network can provide valuable resources, inspiration, and a sense of camaraderie throughout your career.
The field of education offers opportunities for lifelong learning and personal growth. As an education major, you'll constantly engage with new educational methodologies, research, and evolving technologies, ensuring that your knowledge and teaching methods remain current and innovative.
Becoming an education major can lead to a fulfilling and purpose-driven career, providing the chance to positively impact lives, promote social change, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of education and society as a whole. We can't wait to see you here at BHSU!
The School of Education offers 21 accredited undergraduate programs and master's degrees. Explore some program highlights below:
BHSU's School of Education is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This mark of quality ensures that you receive a high-quality education taught by experienced faculty and aligned with national standards. This accreditation enhances your career prospects, simplifies the licensure process, and provides networking opportunities in the field of education.
Dr. Faye LaDuke-Pelster Department Chair, School of Education
CAEP Accredited Program
