Which colleges have strong programs for teaching?

I'm considering a major in education, so I'm looking for colleges that are well-regarded for their teaching programs. What are some colleges that are known for producing great teachers? I'm interested in both the quality of the program and the kind of hands-on experiences I might get, like student teaching or internships. Does anyone have recommendations based on recent experiences or knowledge? Bonus if you can mention any schools in the Northeast, but I'm open to suggestions from across the country!

For a prospective education major like you, it will be crucial to find a school that not only provides a strong academic program but also ample opportunities for hands-on experiences. A few options come to mind that could fit your criteria.

At the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), their Graduate School of Education is one of the nation’s premier research education schools, though they do not offer an undergraduate teaching major. However, they do offer an Education & Society Minor that can be a great stepping stone if you're considering a Master's in Education.

Boston College provides a robust undergraduate program in their Lynch School of Education and Human Development, offering education degrees in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education. BC provides strong foundational knowledge but also ensures that students get field experience starting from the first year.

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, cannot be overlooked. Their Peabody College of Education and Human Development is very well-regarded and offers a variety of Bachelor of Science programs for aspiring teachers. This major integrates theory and practice through a strong commitment to practicum experiences and extensive teaching internships.

Michigan State University has a comprehensive undergraduate teacher prep program as well, offering a variety of majors and minors within the field of education. Michigan State provides many opportunities for pre-teaching field experiences starting from your freshman year, and they have partnerships with a variety of school districts.

Lastly, the University of Maryland offers a major in Early Childhood/Elementary Education that provides extensive field experiences and clinical practice. They also maintain strong partnerships with nearby school districts and community organizations, providing a wide range of opportunities for hands-on teaching.

These are by no means the only excellent education programs, but they're a starting point. It's imperative to inquire about their clinical experiences and partnerships with local school districts at any school you're considering to ensure you'll have adequate student teaching opportunities. This will stand you in good stead for your career.