As a result of the accreditation process, the teacher preparation programs offered by the Department of Teacher Education require the teacher candidate to complete a minor course of study in a content area. The minor can range from 15-22 credits in addition to the professional program, depending upon the choice of minor. To enhance employment prospects, department faculty recommend that teacher candidates choose a content area that can be taught in elementary or middle school.

These might include the following minors: Art, Biology, Theatre, Dance, Creative Arts, Social Studies, English, English as a Second Language, Earth Science, Geography, Health, History, Math, Foreign Language, and Music.

It is important to formally declare a minor with the registrar as soon as possible, and to begin the minor along with other prerequisite courses, before entering the professional program. Careful planning with an advisor in the minor department will ensure that courses are sequenced carefully throughout the program of study. Areas of need in the public schools, such as math, science or a foreign language are highly recommended as minors for Elementary and Early Childhood teacher candidates.