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The College of Education: We've Been Here From the Start

Since its inception in 1912 as West Tennessee State Normal School, the University of Memphis has evolved significantly, and at the heart of its educational mission has always been the College of Education. Today, our college proudly houses three dynamic departments where students specialize in teaching, counseling, research, leadership, administration, design, and more.

Whether your passion lies in traditional education, non-profits, or pioneering roles in unconventional settings, our diverse range of degree programs is tailored to help you achieve your aspirations. Beyond academics, the College of Education is home to award-winning research centers that drive impactful changes in public and academic policies through innovative research initiatives.

At the core of our mission are key values of diversity, inclusion, respect, innovation, and service, which permeate every aspect of our operations. We are dedicated to empowering our students to excel, transforming innovation into actionable results, and inspiring communities in Memphis, Tennessee, and beyond through the power of education.

What can I do with a degree from the COE?

At the College of Education, our graduates are more than educators and administrators; they are the backbone of transformative change across diverse fields. From hospital-based rehabilitation specialists to mental health counselors, school administrators to university researchers, and leaders in nonprofit organizations to human resources administrators, our alumni shape communities and drive innovation. They serve as directors of government agencies, community college presidents, and influential figures in student affairs. Our versatile programs also prepare graduates as behavior analysts in education, business, and clinical psychology, instructional designers in corporate and academic settings, and literacy coaches enhancing educational outcomes. Whatever your passion, we equip you with the skills and expertise to excel and lead in today's dynamic landscape.

COE graduates work as:

  • Hospital-based and community-based treatment and rehabilitation practitioners
  • Mental health counselors
  • School and university counselors
  • Psychologists
  • University researchers
  • K-12 school administrators
  • District superintendents
  • Non-profit directors
  • Human Resources administrators
  • Leaders of government agencies
  • Community college presidents
  • Deans, Associate Deans, and Assistant Deans
  • Student Affairs administrators
  • Teachers and leaders in pre-school and K-12
  • Behavior Analysts in education, business, and clinical psychology
  • Instructional Designers in business, military, and higher education
  • Literacy Coaches in schools and the community

Our Departments

Looking to launch your career in education or take it to the next level? The College of Education goes beyond teaching certification> with a wealth of opportunities across our three dynamic departments. With over 30 degree programs offered at both graduate and undergraduate levels, we're dedicated to helping you achieve excellence in your chosen field.

Delve into specialized areas:

  • Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research (CEPR): Dive into clinical mental health, rehabilitation, school counseling, counselor education, and more. Explore the complexities of educational and counseling psychology that shape the future of learning and mental health.

  • Instruction and Curriculum Leadership (ICL): Whether you aspire to teach at the preK-12 level or apply instructional design in business, art, or education settings, our ICL department prepares you to innovate and lead in diverse educational environments.

  • Leadership (LEAD): Interested in educational administration or conducting research in higher and adult education? Discover how our LEAD department equips you with the skills to excel as a K-12 administrator or contribute to educational policy and leadership at all levels.

Each department offers unique pathways to success. Explore our departmental pages to find the perfect degree program to elevate your career and make a lasting impact in education.

COE Research Centers