In the Nation for Career Preparation
—Wall Street Journal (2025)
Pursue Your Calling
at Orlean Beeson School of Education
With unmatched career preparation, students graduate with the skills and experience necessary to begin making a difference in the world.
Educate, Lead and Serve
Discover a transformative education at Orlean Beeson School of Education at Samford University, where we empower future educators through a strong foundation in character education and unmatched career preparation. Our commitment to educate, lead and serve ensures that you not only gain the knowledge and skills needed for success but also the moral and ethical grounding to make a lasting impact in your community.
#8
#34
Best Value Private Universities in the U.S. —Kiplinger’s Personal Finance
100%
2022-23 Graduates Employed or Pursuing Graduate Studies within 6 Months of Graduation
Human Development and Family Science
This department offers the Human Development and Family Science program as well as concentrations in child development, child life and gerontology. The department also offers a 3 + 3 Law Program, which is available to Samford students from any undergraduate major; however, the human development and family science degree works particularly well for those interested in family law and policy issues. Also offered are family science/public health and family science/social work fast track options which allow students to obtain a bachelor's and master's degree in five years.
Educational Leadership
Graduate programs offered in this department include Instructional Leadership at the master and specialist level along with face-to-face, blended and online offerings for the Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Leadership program. Our candidates are highly sought after and many alumni are currently serving in notable leadership positions.
Teacher Education
This department houses nationally-recognized teacher education programs. Undergraduate programs offered are Early Childhood, Special Education, Elementary, Elementary Collaborative (ESEC), Secondary Education, and an Elementary Education degree with a concentration in Christian Education and Missions for students seeking certification to teach in alternative educational settings. The department also offers Alternative A Master's Programs which are designed for the working professional and allow you to earn a master's degree in elementary education, special education or secondary education.
