Northwestern adds computer science endorsement for teachers

Northwestern College’s graduate school has added a computer science endorsement to its list of online education endorsement and M.Ed. degrees.

Dr. Sara Waring-Tiedeman, director of the Master of Education program, says Northwestern developed the endorsement in response to an anticipated federal government requirement that will mandate the teaching of computer science in all classes. Northwestern is now one of just two Iowa colleges to offer the computer science endorsement—and the only one to offer it entirely online.

The 15-credit program includes classes aimed at preparing licensed schoolteachers in grades K-8 and/or 5-12 to support students in the development of computer skills. Completion leads to Iowa Endorsement #277 (K-8) and/or #278 (5-12).

The computer science endorsement is one of six graduate-level endorsements offered by Northwestern’s graduate school. Teachers can also pursue endorsements in the areas of administration, coaching, early childhood and special education. The graduate school also offers seven M.Ed. tracks in the areas of early childhood, educational administration, master teacher, special education and teacher leadership.

The first classes for the computer science endorsement start Jan. 8, and the second spring session begins March 13. Enrollees take just one eight-week course at a time and can expect to complete the endorsement in two semesters. Credits earned in pursuit of the endorsement can be applied toward earning a Master of Education degree. For details, visit nwciowa.edu/computer-science-endorsement.