Department of Learning and Teaching

Expand your impact as an educator—from the classroom to the community.

Here, becoming an educator means more than it does in the traditional sense. Those who earn a graduate degree in education are equipped to be catalysts for change in their communities and beyond. You will be the first teacher candidates in the United States to graduate from a Changemaker teacher preparation program. Our graduates are well prepared for a lifelong teaching career with emphasis on the many social-justice issues that come with teaching diverse populations.

You'll master the academic foundation and theory behind teaching and learning—and, through hands-on experience in our community's schools, you'll study inclusivity, personalized learning and leadership development. You'll develop strategies for differentiated learning as you work with students in local underserved populations and embark on an international experience that enriches your cross-cultural understanding. Along the way, an academic cohort environment helps our students learn from each other and build lasting relationships.

Our graduates emerge ready for employment—and are highly sought after by employers. Most graduates receive multiple job offers, providing a way to start making a difference immediately.

Scholarship and Grants Available!

Scholarship and grants are available for you to make graduate school more accessible. We have a dedicated team at SOLES here to help you navigate the options available.

Explore Scholarships and Grants

Is teaching in your future?

Your Teaching Career in Your Hands
Students who embark on their teaching career with USD have the opportunity to take control of their educational journey. Whether you want to pursue a degree part-time or full-time, we have options available for you.
Learn More!
New PhD in Education for Social Justice
Online Flexibility with Real-World Impact

The Department of Learning and Teaching is happy to announce the launch of the Ph.D. in Education for Social Justice program! Ph.D. graduates emerge with a rich understanding and experience of how to use education to build more equitable, tolerant, and socially just societies and institutions. Join the fall 2019 cohort and attain your personal and professional goals!

Learn More!
New One-Year TESOL Program
MEd in TESOL, Literacy, and Culture One-Year Option Available

The TESOL, Literacy, and Culture program was created in 2003 with the mission to provide candidates with a solid foundation in ESL pedagogy and cultural understanding to effectively serve diverse student populations. Starting summer 2019 a one-year option is now available*.

Learn More about the TESOL Program

*Domestic applicants only
** Available to domestic and international applicants Fall 2019

When we are recognized, it opens doors for you.

SOLES is currently ranked among the top 100 Graduate Education Programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report—and its online Graduate Education Program ranks in the Top 50 nationally.

What does this recognition mean to us? More opportunities for our graduates.

Meet with MEd student, Christopher Caylor

Chris is pursuing a Single Subject and Special Education (mild/moderate) credential and enjoys being in a cohort that shares his passion for teaching. Outside of the classroom, Chris is in the SOLES Admissions and Outreach Office providing information to aspiring teachers.

Schedule an appointment to speak with Chris.

In the News

Law, SOLES, PCE Kick Off USD's Commencement Season This Weekend
// May 17, 2019
The University of San Diego’s 2019 Commencement ceremonies — with some 2,600 graduating students — will take place over tw…
Office Hours: Suzanne Stolz, EdD, SOLES Assistant Professor of Special Education
// May 7, 2019
None of us have all the answers, but for Suzanne Stolz, EdD, an assistant professor of special education at the University of San Diego, cla…