Social Studies Education

The Social Studies Program mission is to advance knowledgeable, reflective, and active democratic citizenship for the state of Georgia, the nation, and the world through exemplary and rigorous social studies teacher preparation, scholarship, and service. Our work is framed by commitments to social justice, equity, and democratic principles in education and the world beyond schools.

The Social Studies Program offers both bachelor's- and master's-level options leading to initial teaching certification in social studies education in grades 7-12 in the state of Georgia. Preservice teachers in these programs develop the dispositions, knowledge, and skills to help students develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world.

The Social Studies Program also offers opportunities for educators to enhance their preparation as teachers or develop expertise as teacher educators in master's, specialist, and doctoral programs in social studies education. Master's degree options are designed to meet both immediate and long-term goals of social studies educators as teachers and scholars.

Students who move beyond the master's degree typically choose either the specialist program or one of the two doctoral programs for their terminal degree work, though students with a specialist degree sometimes go on to complete a doctorate. The specialist program is designed for individuals who focus their careers on teaching and curriculum leadership at the pre-collegiate level; the doctoral programs, for those who seek additional career options, including work at the college or university level.

Of the two doctoral programs - the Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) and Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy), the Ph.D. program is designed for those interested in conducting research and developing theory, and seeking faculty positions at research universities. In both doctoral programs, students are expected to develop teaching and research skills and engage in intensive study of educational issues. The program of study is not simply a list of courses to be completed but a comprehensive set of experiences that the student designs with the support of the major professor and advisory committee. All doctoral students must complete a dissertation. Doctoral programs typically require more than three years of intensive study and research.

The Program offers a limited number of competitive Graduate Assistantships. Graduate Assistantships provide a monthly stipend during the academic year and tuition support. Graduate Assistants typically provide instructional and research support to the Program.

Looking at your options after graduating?

Interested in a profession that
“makes a difference?”

Want to shape the future?

Consider teaching social studies!