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Phyllis J. Washington College of Education

Adrea Lawrence, Dean
Susan Harper-Whalen, Associate Dean

The Phyllis J. Washington College of Education is comprised of four academic departments:

  • Counseling

  • Educational Leadership

  • Global Youth Development

  • Teaching and Learning

It is also the home for the Institute for Educational Research and Service (IERS).

Mission: The Phyllis J. Washington College of Education shapes professional practices that contribute to the development of human potential. We are individuals in a community of lifelong learners, guided by respect for knowledge, human dignity, and ethical behavior. We work together producing and disseminating knowledge to advance the physical, emotional, and intellectual health of a diverse society.

The College of Education coordinates the University of Montana Professional Education Unit, a unit comprised of initial teacher preparation at the elementary and secondary levels, and the advanced preparation of teachers, certified speech-language pathologists, educational leaders, school counselors, and school psychologists. The Departments of Teaching and Learning, Educational Leadership, and Counseling prepare professionals for careers in education with bachelor, master's, Education Specialist and Doctor of Education programs while the School Psychology Program, housed in the Psychology Department in the College of Humanities and Sciences, prepares students for careers in education with its master's, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. These programs are organized to foster the development of learning communities and incorporate three basic themes: integration of knowledge and experience; cooperation among participants; and inclusiveness, caring, and respect for others. The Professional Education Unit at the University of Montana is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Central to its research and outreach efforts with P/K-12 schools, the College of Education's Institute for Educational Research and Service (IERS) designs, evaluates, and disseminates programs that support the well-being of students and communities. Since 1957, IERS has collaborated with numerous local, state, national, and federal organizations to provide effective, data-driven research models that enhance the social development and academic achievement of all learners. Externally sponsored teaching, research, and service activities are central to IERS. In addition, the College of Education supports a Preschool Laboratories, Preschool Program, Health and Human Performance Laboratory and Technology Resource Center. These programs offer enhanced opportunities for student involvement and learning.

Specific program options within the College of Education are described in the various departmental sections of this catalog.