Para Education, AAS
Note: This degree is currently only offered at USD 501, Topeka Center for Advanced Learning & Careers (TCALC).
The Para Education program is designed to provide students with the skills needed to pursue a career in education. All students complete a well-rounded sequence of general education courses delivered by arts and sciences department faculty. The education core classes provide training in classroom management, leadership, and educational psychology. Students will engage in dedicated apprenticeship time throughout the program culminating in a teaching field experience in the final semester.
This program prepares graduates to immediately enter the workforce as a Para Educator. Students may also continue their education and earn a baccalaureate degree in elementary or secondary education, with 60 credits from the Para Education program counting towards the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) available through the Washburn U - PTP: Paraprofessionals to Teachers program.
Degree Requirements
In addition to the requirements stated below, students must complete all requirements for an Associate of Applied Science degree, and any additional hours needed to reach the minimum 60 credit hours required for graduation. Completion of the courses below will fulfill general education requirements. Please see your advisor for more information.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required General Education Courses | ||
| CN 150 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| EN 101 | Introductory College Writing | 3 |
| HI 111 | History of the United States through the Civil War | 3 |
| MA 112 | Contemporary College Mathematics 1 | 3 |
| PO 106 | The Government of the United States | 3 |
| Subtotal | 15 | |
| Required Education Courses | ||
| ED 155 | Teaching, Learning, Leadership | 3 |
| ED 285 | Educational Psychology | 3 |
| ED 165 | Ed. 1, Examining Teaching as a Profession: Diversity 1, Literacy 1, Technology 1 | 3 |
| ED 275 | Ed. 2 Exploring Teaching as a Profession (Classroom Management 1, Diversity 2, Technology 2) Ed. 2 | 3 |
| ED 290 | The Whole Child | 3 |
| ED 302 | Teaching Exceptional Learners | 3 |
| ED 335 | Creative Experiences in Early Childhood Through Middle School | 3 |
| ED 474 | Special Topics in Education | 3 |
| EDU 100 | Introduction to Teaching Field Experience | 1 |
| Subtotal | 25 | |
| Other Required Courses | ||
| BI 106 | Everyday Biology 1 | 5 |
| EC 100 | Introduction to Economics | 3 |
| EN 200 | Intermediate College Writing | 3 |
| GG 101 | Introduction to Geography | 3 |
| or AN 112 | Cultural Anthropology | |
| or SO 100 | Introduction to Sociology | |
| or PY 100 | Basic Concepts in Psychology | |
| or PY 209 | Psychological Development through the Life-Span | |
| HI 100 | Survey of Early World History | 3 |
| MU 100 | Enjoyment of Music | 3 |
| Subtotal | 20 | |
| Total Hours | 60 | |
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A substitute course may be approved by advisor if student is interested in secondary education. Please see advisor for more information.