Our Lady of the Lake University

At Our Lady of the Lake University, the educator preparation program follows a clinically rich model—meaning you'll spend a lot of time learning in real K–12 classrooms.

From your first field placements to your final yearlong clinical teaching residency, you'll gain hands-on experience in a variety of schools, grade levels and classroom settings. Your placements will be matched to your certification area so you’re prepared to teach a wide range of students and learning styles.

Through coursework and fieldwork, you’ll:

• Observe classroom teaching and learning in elementary and secondary classrooms
• Co-plan and co-teach lessons
• Work with students one-on-one, in small groups, and whole classes
• Reflect on what makes teaching effective
• Learn professional responsibilities from experienced mentors

This approach ensures you're ready to lead your own classroom with confidence.

At OLLU, the Education Department is rooted in a mission of service, justice and community. With over 130 years of experience, you’ll be prepared to support all kinds of learners through culturally responsive teaching.

The department offers hands-on programs with certification pathways in:

• Early Childhood–grade 6
• Grades 7–12
• Early Childhood–grade 12 
   

Specializations are available in: 

• Bilingual Education
• English as a Second Language
• Special Education

You’ll gain real classroom experience and learn to teach with compassion, fairness and confidence in San Antonio’s vibrant, multicultural schools.

Mentoring future educators is at the heart of what OLLU does. With small class sizes and one-on-one advising, you’ll receive personalized guidance from faculty with decades of classroom and leadership experience. The Education Department fosters a supportive, close-knit learning environment where you’ll be coached every step of the way—from coursework to classroom. This individualized attention ensures you’ll graduate confident, compassionate and classroom-ready. 

Excellence isn’t just a goal at OLLU—it’s the standard. The Education Department is dedicated to always improving by reflecting on what works, trying new ideas and using data to make smart decisions. Faculty are experienced and passionate mentors who will help you grow into a confident and effective teacher.

With challenging courses, real classroom experience and a focus on fairness and respect for all students, OLLU prepares future teachers like you to lead with purpose and bring your best to every classroom.