Graduate School of Education - Catalog

The graduate program in education offers two 36-hour, non-thesis Master’s degrees, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) for those previously certified to teach in the state of Texas and a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) for those seeking Texas teaching certification.

Faculty

  • David Boyer, Ed.D., Dean of the College of Education
  • Sam Ayers, Ed.D., Executive Director
  • Connor Bryant, Ph.D.
  • Judy Flagle, Ed.D.
  • R.L. Richards, Ed.D.
  • Gene Sheets, Ed.D.

Degrees

To earn a degree, students must complete the curriculum and meet other requirements for a degree listed in the academic policy section of this catalog.

Certification Programs

Mission

The mission of the graduate program in education is to prepare creative and innovative professional educators with high moral and ethical standards who view themselves as agents of change and who are committed to the welfare of children and have the understanding, attitudes, and skills necessary for effective teaching and leadership. Individuals desiring to complete requirements for Texas Educator Certification must apply to the Educator Certification Program through the certification office. Some course work is required in addition to the M.A.T. for completing teaching certification.

Purpose

The purpose of the Master's Degree in education is to provide qualified students with advanced academic training beyond the baccalaureate degree. Graduate education courses are designed (1) to strengthen the professional knowledge base and skills of the graduate student, as both teacher and administrator; (2) to increase independent study and seminar skills; (3) to strengthen the use of traditional research skills; (4) to assist the student in valuing and conducting classroom based research; (5) to increase the instructional leadership skills of the student; (6) to encourage reflective analytical/critical thinking on the part of the student; and (7) to increase the ability of the student to analyze case studies related to educational experiences.

These programs meet the requirements for certification in the state of Texas.  Students interested in seeking certification in states other than Texas should notify the Director of Certification in the College of Education for more information. Additional information is also available in the institutional disclosure statement for programs leading to licensure or certification.

Expectations

Graduate students are expected to assume greater responsibility over their programs of study, to function productively in seminar structures, to conduct research on a regular basis, to read widely and critically in both primary and secondary materials, and to function as professional educators who display ethical and moral behavior and leadership patterned after the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Semester Length

As this program is designed for the practicing professional educator, its academic year is divided into Fall or Spring C1, which last 16 weeks, and Fall or Spring C2 and C3, each lasting 8 weeks, Summer C1 lasting 13 weeks and Summer C5 lasting 10 weeks. Students may enroll in no more than 7 hours per term of evening and/or online courses. Exceptions to the semester hour limit must be approved, in advance, by the advisor.

Educator Certification Program

The Lubbock Christian University Educator Certification Program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and holds membership in the Consortium of State Organizations for Teacher Education (CSOTTE), Texas Association for Colleges of Teacher Education (TACTE), Texas Directors of Field Experiences (TDFE), Texas Association of Certification Officers (TACO), Independent Colleges and Universities in Texas (ICUT), and Texas Coordinators for Teacher Certification and Testing (TCTCT).

Certification Programs

The university offers the following approved certification programs.  These programs meet the requirements for certification in the state of Texas.  Students interested in seeking certification in a state other than Texas should notify the Director of Certification in the College of Education for more information.  Additional information is also available in the institutional disclosure statement for programs leading to licensure or certification.

  • Early Childhood Education Core Subjects EC-6–Certification to teach all subject areas in pre-kindergarten through grade 6.
  • Middle School Education-Specialist (Grades 4-8)–Certification to teach grades 4–8 in a particular teaching field. Teaching field options include Math, Science, English, Reading/Language Arts, and Social Studies.
  • Secondary Education (Grades 7-12)–Certification to teach grades 7-12 in one teaching field. Teaching field options include Mathematics, Chemistry, Life Science, Physical Science, Composite Science, English, History, and Composite Social Studies.
  • All-Level Education (Grades EC-12)–Certification for EC-12th grade Art, Music, Physical Education, Spanish, or Theatre arts.

Education coursework is designed to prepare teachers to integrate technology into instruction that is consistent with TEA/ISTE Technology Application standards while also training educators to effectively collect, manage, and analyze data in order to enhance student academic achievement. EEL/EDS 2320, EDS 4310, and EEL 4320 focus on these standards.

Certification programs are subject to change by the accrediting agencies. Students should check with their academic department advisor for exact requirements.

Educator Certification Council Policies

The Educator Certification Council (ECC) is responsible for ensuring that educator certification candidates possess the basic skills and qualities necessary to perform their duties in a professional and Christ-like manner. The council is comprised of deans and faculty representing the departments offering educator certification. The council meets twice each long semester. As required by the Texas Education Agency, the council has established admission requirements for all programs of study leading to educator certification. All program applicants must:

Phase I: Admission to the Educator Certification Program (ECP)

Undergradute students must be admitted to the ECP prior to Methods. Applications must be submitted to the Director of Certification by October 15 or March 15. The Educator Certification Council (ECC) reviews completed applications each semester.

Criteria for Admissions to the ECP

  • Oral Communication–grade of at least a C in ENG 1301 and ENG 1302
  • Completion UNI 2000
  • Successful completion of 60 hours
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale
  • Successful completion of 12 hours in academic specialization (15 hours for Mathematics or Science) with minimum GPA of 2.75. General Education Core courses do not count toward the required hours.
  • Military Service–see Director of Certification for policy on awarding transfer credit
  • No previous felony or misdemeanor convictions. In compliance with 19 TAC 141.5, the State Board will conduct a background check for Educator Certification with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Applicants may contact the Director of Certification for additional information.

Submission of an application portfolio containing the following items:

  • Recent photograph
  • Unofficial copies of all university transcripts
  • Recommendations from two faculty members from outside of the College of Education who are familiar with the student’s academic achievement and potential as an educator. One of these recommendations must come from a faculty member within the academic specialization area.

Master's Degree Candidates

Students must be admitted to the ECP upon enrollment to the University. Applications must be submitted to the Director of Certification by October 15 or March 15. The Educator Certification Council reviews completed applications each semester.

Criteria for candidacy in the Educator Certification Program leading to certification with the Texas Education Agency.

  • A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 hours in the Baccalaureate degree and maintained throughout certification program coursework.
  • Met all university enrollment qualifications to begin the appropriate master's program.
  • Master of Arts in Teaching/LEAP applicants must successfully complete the Pre-Admission Certification Test (PACT) in the appropriate content field prior admission to the Education Certification Program.
  • No previous felony or misdemeanor convictions. In compliance with 19 TAC 141.5, a computer background check will be made by the State Board for Educator Certification with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Applicants may contact the Director of Certification for additional information.
  • Submit the completed application for candidacy to the Director of Certification.
  • Successful completion of 12 hours in academic specialization (15 hours for Mathematics or Science) with minimum GPA of 2.75.
  • Students who earned degrees from outside the United States must also score 26 or higher in each section of the TOEFL IBT.

Educator Qualities

Applicants must demonstrate the teaching qualities outlined in the ECP Mission Statement or demonstrate a potential for positive development of these qualities. The Educator Certification Council (ECC) will evaluate these qualities through an analysis of the faculty recommendations, faculty interviews and the student self-evaluations that are included in the application portfolio. Interviews are required and will be scheduled. Educator qualities include the following.

  • View teaching as a mission and ministry
  • Have a desire to help others
  • Have a commitment to the welfare of children
  • Possess high moral and ethical standards
  • Demonstrate openness to new ideas
  • Possess effective oral and written communication skills
  • Demonstrate emotional and physical health
  • Demonstrate creative problem solving skills
  • Demonstrate leadership
  • Demonstrate strong academic background

Review of Application Portfolios

The College of Education will examine completed application portfolios. The ECC will review the application portfolio and vote to approve or deny admission into the ECP. If admission is denied, applicants may reapply to the Director of Certification. If the council denies admission to an applicant that has met the basic academic criteria, a process for appeal is available through the Dean of the College of Education.

Admission to the Educator Certification Program

The council will review each complete application and vote to either approve or deny admission to candidacy. If the council denies admission to an applicant who has met the basic academic criteria, a process for appeal is available through the Dean of the School of Education. Upon letter of approval of entrance to the Educator Certification Program, Program Chairs/Coordinators will approve a candidate to take the appropriate content Texas Examination of Educator Standards (TExES). A candidate must complete that test within 45 days of notice of approval to test.

Phase II: Candidacy in the Educator Certification Program

After formal admittance to the ECP, candidates should seek approval for the content TExES from the appropriate department chair. The content department chair will submit testing authorization to the director of certification. The candidate must complete the appropriate TExES content test within 45 days of this approval to test.

Clinical Teaching Standards

Submit an application for clinical teaching to the Field Office Coordinator by October 15 or March 15 to be eligible to enroll in clinical teaching for the following semester.

Progression to clinical teaching is based on the following criteria for undergraduate candidates.

  • Successful completion of the content TExES in the appropriate certification field.
  • Successful completion of 110 hours applicable to the academic plan.
  • A minimum overall GPA of 2.75.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.75 and a grade of C or above in both academic specialization and major.
  • Recommendations from the professional educators who supervised the pre-clinical teaching field experience.
  • Freedom from physical, speech, hearing, or emotional handicaps that are detrimental to teaching.

Phase III: ECP Recommendation for Certification to Texas Education Agency

  • Successful completion of all candidacy requirements.
  • A minimum grade of B or better in clinical teaching is required to receive a recommendation for a certificate.
  • Complete LCU graduation requirements with degree and date earned on transcript, or an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited university with sufficient coursework in an approved academic content field and professional development coursework to meet the state requirements for an educator certificate.
  • Demonstration of high moral and ethical character through the TEA approved Teacher Ethics Training.
  • Successful completion of the EC-12 PPR TExES certification exam.

Candidates may contact the office of the Director of Certification during the clinical teaching semester for questions regarding state certification procedures. When a candidate has met all requirements and submitted all fees, the College of Education will recommend the candidate for certification to the Texas Education Agency.

Complaints

The university Educator Preparation Program encourages its participants and students to discuss their concerns with an appropriate program employee and make every reasonable effort to resolve concerns informally. However, participants in the program may submit written complaints at any time. Neither the program nor any program employee shall retaliate against participants for raising concerns or for submitting written complaints. Written complaints may be submitted using the university complaint system which is linked on the student right to know web page on the university web site. Procedures for resolving complaints and for appealing decisions are also provided on that link. If any complainant is not satisfied with an outcome, the complainant may file a complaint against the program with the Texas Education Agency. The Texas Education Agency complaint process can be found at this link. The Texas Education Agency complaint process is also linked on the student right to know web page on the university web site.

To top

Elementary and Secondary Education

Graduate education offers students an opportunity to participate in advanced studies in teacher education, available for those who have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and meet graduate program admission requirements. Students desiring to pursue the Master of Arts in Teaching degree, who are not certified to teach, must complete six hours of undergraduate clinical teaching beyond the master's degree and meet all Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements to become certified. Students not pursuing a master’s degree but interested in becoming a certified teacher, may pursue the Teacher Preparation Program in Secondary Education. This 25-hour program allows students to pursue teacher certification and can typically be completed within a year. To meet TEA/SBEC requirements in both programs, students may have to enroll in additional leveling courses.

Special Education

Special education offers students opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a special education teacher. Students who have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and meet graduate admission requirements may pursue the Master of Arts in Teaching degree in Special Education with an EC-12 certification. Clinical teaching in a special education classroom is required for this certification. For students who have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in education, who hold a current Texas teacher certification, and who meet the university graduate admission requirements can pursue the following three options: (1) the 36-hour Master of Education in Special Education, (2) the 36-hour Master of Education in Special Education with Dyslexia emphasis, or (3) the 15-hour Special Education CORE program for those wanting to increase their knowledge in the area of special education and pursue Texas Special Education certification. For students completing a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Middle School Education, or Secondary Education at LCU and entering the MED Special Education within two years of graduation may be eligible to reduce the total numbers of hours up to 6 semester hours. Faculty in the discipline determine coursework required for the degree. A minimum of 30 semester hours for a master’s degree must still be earned.

Superintendent Certification

The Superintendent Certification cohort program is a post-graduate program that will develop students’ knowledge and skills which are needed to hold administrative positions at the central office level or superintendent positions. Standards for admission to the Superintendent Certification program are more restrictive than general graduate admission standards in that students must have completed a master’s degree and either hold a principal certificate or have at least three years of creditable managerial experience approved by TEA. Candidate applications will be reviewed by program administrators in conjunction with the Office of Graduate Studies.

Alternative Educator Certification Program (LEAP)

LCU LEAP (Lubbock Educator Alternative-Certification Program) is a program designed for individuals seeking to transition into a rewarding career in education without a traditional teaching degree. This comprehensive program combines rigorous coursework, hands-on classroom experience, and mentorship opportunities, enabling participants to:

  • Design instruction to promote student learning
  • Create a positive, productive classroom environment
  • Implement effective and responsive instruction/assessment
  • Earn transferable graduate credit toward a master’s degree

Please contact the Graduate School of Education for a full list of content areas available for alternative-certification.

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction offers a program for educational preparation with specialized skills to meet the curriculum needs of professional educators in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary education as curriculum specialists. The master’s degree focuses on the collection and evaluation of a curriculum and instructional program using student performance data to identify strengths and weaknesses in the program and the development of a modification and implementation plan to address program weaknesses. Students will build an E-portfolio and present a curriculum and instruction plan to a committee of educators. For students completing a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Middle School Education, or Secondary Education at LCU and entering the MED Curriculum and Instruction program within two years of graduation may be eligible to reduce the total numbers of hours up to 6 semester hours. Faculty in the discipline determine coursework required for the degree. A minimum of 30 semester hours for a master’s degree must still be earned.

Non-thesis degree program in curriculum and instruction for individuals holding a Texas teaching certification.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
  • EDU5302  Advanced Learning Theory and Human Development
  • EDU5308  Assessment and Identification of Educational Challenges
  • EDU5309  Differentiated Curriculum
  • EDU5315  Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5325  Advanced Curriculum Design and Development
  • EDU5333  School and Community Leadership
  • EDU5350  Models of Teaching
  • EDU5351  Capstone in Curriculum and Instruction
  • 3 hours from
    • EDU5312  Exceptionality
    • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
To top

Master of Education in Educational Diagnostics

The Master of Education degree in Educational Diagnostics will prepare students with the knowledge and skills to be an educational diagnostician. This program is available for those who are already a certified teacher and who meet university graduate program admission requirements. Students must have taught at least two years in a creditable institution before obtaining this certification, but may be enrolled during this period. Students holding a master’s degree have the option of choosing the 24-hour certification route instead. Students who have completed the MAT or MED in Special Education at LCU may be eligible for a 12-hour certification program. For students completing a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Middle School Education, or Secondary Education at LCU and entering the MED Educational Diagnostics program within two years of graduation may be eligible to reduce the total numbers of hours up to 6 semester hours. Faculty in the discipline determine coursework required for the degree. A minimum of 30 semester hours for a master’s degree must still be earned.

Non-thesis degree program in special education and diagnostic assessment and services for those with a teaching certification and two years of creditable teaching experience.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5340  Achievement Testing/Authentic Assessment
  • EDU5342  Intelligence Testing/Authentic Assessment
  • EDU5343  Cross Battery Assessment for Learning Disabilities
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing the Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5360  Seminar/Practicum for the Educational Diagnostician
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
To top

Master of Education in Educational Leadership

The Master of Education in Education Leadership will offer students opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a school principal or central office administrator as designated by the school. The Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership program, as well as the principal certification program option available for the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with either the Curriculum and Instruction or Special Education emphasis, is designed to prepare students to test for certification as a principal in the State of Texas. The university cannot confirm whether the program or courses in the program meets requirements for certification in any other state. Students seeking certification in another state assume responsibility to determine whether the program meets certification requirements in that state.

Students pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with either the Curriculum and Instruction or Special Education emphasis may complete the master's degree in educational leadership without seeking certification.

Students interested in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership may choose one of the three options below:

  • M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (36-credit hours)
  • M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with Curriculum and Instruction emphasis (36-credit hour, with optional 12-credit hour principal certification program)
  • M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with Special Education emphasis (36-credit hour, with optional 12-credit hour principal certification program)

Students already holding a master's degree have the option of choosing the 24-hour certification route instead. Students must have taught at least two years in a creditable institution before obtaining this certification, but may be enrolled during this period. The Master of Education in Leadership may be pursued on campus.

Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Non-thesis degree program in educational leadership for individuals holding a Texas teaching certification and two years of creditable teaching experience. The Master of Education in Education Leadership is offered in a hybrid format.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
  • EDU5303  Educational Technology
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5315  Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5324  Administration of Special Programs
  • EDU5326  The Principalship
  • EDU5331  Business and Personnel Management
  • EDU5333  School Community Leadership
  • EDU5353  Principal Practicum I
  • EDU5356  Principal Practicum II
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
To top

Master of Education in Educational Leadership with Curriculum and Instruction emphasis

Non-thesis degree program in educational leadership for individuals holding a Texas teaching certification and two years of creditable teaching experience. The Master of Education in Education Leadership is offered in a hybrid format.

(36 hours, Principal Certification option 48 hours)

  1. Major (24 hours)
    • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
    • EDU5312  Exceptionality
    • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
    • EDU5320  Educational Law
    • EDU5303  Educational Technology
    • EDU5315  Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
    • EDU5324  Administration of Special Programs
    • EDU5333  School Community Leadership
    • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
  2. Emphasis (12 hours)
    • EDU5308  Assessment and Identification
    • EDU5309  Differentiated Curriculum
    • EDU5350  Models of Teaching
    • EDU5351  Capstone
  3. Principal Certification option* (12 hours)
    • EDU5326  The Principalship
    • EDU5331  Business and Personnel Management
    • EDU5353  Principal Practicum I
    • EDU5356  Principal Practicum II

*Program leading to the Principal Certification for those completing the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with either the Curriculum and Instruction or Special Education emphasis with two years of creditable teaching experience.

To top

Master of Education in Educational Leadership with Special Education emphasis

Non-thesis degree program in educational leadership for individuals holding a Texas teaching certification and two years of creditable teaching experience. The Master of Education in Education Leadership is offered in a hybrid format.

(36 hours, Principal Certification option 48 hours)

  1. Major (24 hours)
    • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
    • EDU5312  Exceptionality
    • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
    • EDU5320  Educational Law
    • EDU5303  Educational Technology
    • EDU5315  Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
    • EDU5324  Administration of Special Programs
    • EDU5333  School Community Leadership
    • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
  2. Emphasis (12 hours)
    • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families
    • EDU5346  Behavior Management
    • EDU5347  Assessing Children
    • EDU5348  Adapting Curriculum
  3. Principal Certification option* (12 hours)
    • EDU5326  The Principalship
    • EDU5331  Business and Personnel Management
    • EDU5353  Principal Practicum I
    • EDU5356  Principal Practicum II

*Program leading to the Principal Certification for those completing the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with either the Curriculum and Instruction or Special Education emphasis with two years of creditable teaching experience.

To top

Master of Education in Special Education

Non-thesis degree program in special education for individuals holding a Texas teaching certification.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5301  Research for School Improvement
  • EDU5303  Integrating Educational Technology
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5329  Content Area Literacy
  • EDU5339  Development in Children
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5349  Advanced Practicum in Special Education
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
To top

Master of Education in Special Education with Dyslexia emphasis

Non-thesis degree program in special education with an emphasis in dyslexia for those holding a Texas teaching certification. Students admitted with additional requirements.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5303  Integrating Educational Technology
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5318  Basic Dyslexia I
  • EDU5319  Basic Dyslexia II
  • EDU5329  Content Area Literacy
  • EDU5338  Advanced Dyslexia
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5349  Advanced Practicum
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination
To top

Master of Arts in Teaching

Non-thesis degree program in secondary education for those seeking a Master of Arts (MA) in Teaching that may culminate initial teacher* certification.

(36 hour degree and 7 or 8 additional hours for certification as listed below)

  • EDU5302  Advanced LEarning Theory and Human Development
  • EDU5303  Integrating Educational Technology
  • EDU5304  Curriculum and Instructional Design
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5313  Classroom Management
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5317  Assessment and Evaluation
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5324  Administration of Special Programs
  • EDU5329  Content Area Literacy
  • Elective 6 hours
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination

*Initial Texas teaching certification requires the following additional coursework:

  • EDU5199  Independent Study of Issues Facing Education
  • EDS4660  Clinical Teaching (one semester)

Or

  • EDU5199  Independent Study of Issues Facing Education
  • EDS4660  Clinical Teaching (one semester)
  • EDS4199  Internship Teacher Preparation (one semester)

Students must pass appropriate content PACT exam to be admitted to the Educator Certification Program prior to completion of the 26th credit hours of MA in Teaching coursework.

To top

Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education

Non-thesis degree program in special education for those seeking teaching certification.

(36 hours)

  • EDU5303  Integrating Educational Technology
  • EDU5304  Curriculum and Instruction Design
  • EDU5310  Elementary School Math and Science
  • EDU5311  Elementary School Language Arts and Social Studies
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5313  Classroom Management
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Leader
  • EDU5329  Content Area Literacy
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU6062  Comprehensive Examination

The following 13 hours must be completed for a Texas teaching certification:

  • EDU5199  Writing/Research in Graduate Education
  • REA3330  Literacy and the Young Child
  • REA3340  The Reading/Writing Connection
  • ESP4660  Clinical Teaching

Students must pass the appropriate content TExES exam prior to enrolling in ESP 4660.

To top

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

The LCU Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program applies theory to practice and prepares educational scholar-practitioners within a Christian framework for leadership positions in one of two emphases: EC-12 Leadership or Curriculum & Instruction Leadership. The cohort model program provides professional relationships and peer support. The 66-hour program is delivered in a hybrid in-person/online instructional format to allow working professionals to pursue their doctorate without leaving their professional positions.

Candidates who qualify may reduce the 66-hour requirement to 54 hours by transferring up to 12 hours of credit and/or competency credit from a Superintendent Certification program or post-master’s courses in Curriculum & Instruction, or related programs. Courses submitted for transfer consideration must be ones in which the student earned a grade of “B” or higher. Coursework must be comparable in both content and level to the courses required for the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership core curriculum or either of the emphasis areas.

Doctor of Education (EdD) Scholarly Project Requirements

The EdD in Educational Leadership program follows the university requirements for successful completion of a graduate degree, and includes specific project, capstone, and examination requirements for the core curriculum and emphasis areas. Students completing the 66 credit-hour program with either an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction Leadership or EC-12 Leadership must successfully produce two presentation or publication ready research projects in EDU7340, 7341, 7342, and 7343 (Applied Research I-IV) core courses. These courses focus on research and development of two scholarly research products addressing specific problems of practice in educational settings, ready for publication or presentation in an educator conference setting.

Additionally, each 12 credit-hour area of emphasis has a culminating capstone requirement or examination. EdD in Educational Leadership students pursuing the Curriculum and Instruction Leadership emphasis will be required to complete a capstone requirement, described in the course description for EDU6351 (Capstone in Curriculum and Instruction) listed above. Students pursuing the EC-12 Leadership emphasis will complete the Texas Superintendent Certification exam.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with Curriculum and Instruction Leadership emphasis

(66 hours)

  • Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership CORE (54 hours)
    • EDU7301  Educational Leadership Theory and Practice
    • EDU7302  Ethics/Values Related to Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7303  Strategic Planning for School Improvement
    • EDU7304  Equity/Social Justice Related to Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7305  Leading Organizational Change
    • EDU7306  Leadership in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
    • EDU7307  Educational Leadership in Human Resources
    • EDU7308  Educational Law and Policy for Educational Leaders
    • EDU7320  Statistical Analysis
    • EDU7322  Quantitative Statistics
    • EDU7323  Qualitative Analysis
    • EDU7330  State Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7331  National Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7332  International Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7340  Applied Research I
    • EDU7341  Applied Research II
    • EDU7342  Applied Research III
    • EDU7343  Applied Research IV
  • Curriculum and Instruction Leadership emphasis (12 hours)
    • EDU6308  Leadership in the Assessment and Identification of Educational Challenges
    • EDU6309  Differentiated Curriculum Leadership
    • EDU6325  Leading Advanced Curriculum Design
    • EDU6351  Capstone in Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with EC-12 Leadership emphasis

(66 hours)

  • Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership CORE (54 hours)
    • EDU7301  Educational Leadership Theory and Practice
    • EDU7302  Ethics/Values Related to Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7303  Strategic Planning for School Improvement
    • EDU7304  Equity/Social Justice Related to Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7305  Leading Organizational Change
    • EDU7306  Leadership in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
    • EDU7307  Educational Leadership in Human Resources
    • EDU7308  Educational Law and Policy for Educational Leaders
    • EDU7320  Statistical Analysis
    • EDU7322  Quantitative Statistics
    • EDU7323  Qualitative Analysis
    • EDU7330  State Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7331  National Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7332  International Trends in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership
    • EDU7340  Applied Research I
    • EDU7341  Applied Research II
    • EDU7342  Applied Research III
    • EDU7343  Applied Research IV
  • EC-12 Leadership emphasis (12 hours)
    • EDU6101  Superintendent Practicum I
    • EDU6102  Superintendent Practicum II
    • EDU6103  Superintendent Practicum III
    • EDU6301  School Finance
    • EDU6303  Leadership in School District Evaluation
    • EDU6304  Superintendency

Certification Only Programs

Students seeking admission into the certification programs must meet the general admission requirements for graduate admission. These programs meet the requirements for certification in the state of Texas.  Students interested in seeking certification in states other than Texas should notify the Director of Certification in the College of Education for more information.

Alternative Educator Certification Program (LEAP)

The Lubbock Educator-Alternative certification (LEAP) post-baccalaureate program provides the opportunity to receive certification without pursuing a degree, with the opportunity for students to complete up to 12 credit hours of graduate coursework that can be applied to the completion of a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or MAT in Special Education program.

(23 hours)

  • EDU5199 Independent Study of Issues Facing Education
  • EDU5313 Classroom Management
  • EDU5317 Assessment and Evaluation
  • EDU5304 Curriculum and Instructional Design
  • EDS4660 Clinical Teaching/Internship
  • EDU5329 Content Area Literacy
  • EDU4199 Internship Teacher Preparation
  • EDU5312 Exceptionality

Students must pass appropriate content PACT exam to begin internship. Students must complete PACT exam, internship, and submit all required materials to complete certification.

Special Education Certification CORE

Certification only post-baccalaureate program in special education for those holding Texas teaching certification.

(15 hours)

  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
To top

Educational Diagnostics Certification

Certification only post-graduate program in diagnostics for those holding Texas teaching certification with three years of creditable teaching experience.

(24 hours)

  • EDU5340  Achievement Testing/Authentic Assessment
  • EDU5342  Intelligence Testing/Authentic Assessment
  • EDU5343  Cross-Battery Assessment for Learning Disabilities
  • EDU5344  Working with Parents and Families of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5346  Behavior Management of Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5347  Assessing the Special Needs Student
  • EDU5348  Adapting the Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
  • EDU5360  Seminar/Practicum for the Educational Diagnostician
To top

Secondary Education Certification (Teacher Prep)

Certification only post-baccalaureate program in secondary education for those possessing at least 24 hours in a teaching field with 12 upper level hours.

(25 hours)

  • EDU5199  Writing/Research in Graduate Education
  • EDU5304  Curriculum and Instructional Design
  • EDU5312  Exceptionality
  • EDU5313  Classroom Management
  • EDU5316  Ethics for the Educator
  • EDU5317  Assessment and Evaluation
  • EDU5329  Content Area Literacy
  • EDS4660  Clinical Teaching

Students must pass appropriate content PACT exam to be admitted to the Educator Certification Program by completion of 9 hours of coursework.

To top

Principal Certification

Program leading to the Principal Certification for those holding a master's degree and two years of creditable teaching experience.

(24 hours)

  • EDU5315  Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
  • EDU5320  Educational Law
  • EDU5324  Administration of Special Programs
  • EDU5326  The Principalship
  • EDU5331  Business and Personnel Management
  • EDU5333  School and Community Leadership
  • EDU5353  Principal Practicum I
  • EDU5356  Principal Practicum II
To top

Superintendent Certification

Program leading to the Superintendent Certification for those holding a master's degree and meet other requirements established by the State Board of Education.

(15 hours)

  • EDU6101  Superintendency Practicum A
  • EDU6102  Superintendency Practicum B
  • EDU6103  Superintendency Practicum C
  • EDU6301  School Finance
  • EDU6302  School District Policy and Politics
  • EDU6303  School District Evaluation
  • EDU6304  The Superintendency
To top