Ann P. Blackwell, Ph.D., Dean
Diane J. Fisher, Ph.D., Associate Dean
Thomas J. Lipscomb, Ph.D., Associate Dean, Gulf Coast
118 College Drive #5023
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
(601) 266-4568
The University of Southern Mississippi, through its College of Education and Psychology, holds membership in the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, the Teacher Education Council of State Colleges and Universities, and the Southern Regional Consortium of Colleges of Education. All programs in professional and teacher education are fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and doctoral programs in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and school psychology are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The master’s degree in library and information science is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). The master’s degree in marriage and family is accredited by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. For degrees offered by each department, please see below.
Mission
The College of Education and Psychology prepares and develops educators, researchers, mental health professionals, and information specialists while generating and disseminating knowledge that connects and advances individuals, communities and society.
Students develop knowledge and skills through exposure to exemplary teaching, research, and professional service. The College contributes to the mission of the University through all aspects of scholarship that promote academic success; enhance the image of the College and the University; foster community relationships and involvement; and create healthy minds, bodies, and campuses.
Conceptual Framework
The Professional Education Unit’s Conceptual Framework is consistent with the University’s historical roots as a normal college, its mission, and its future. The University, since our founding in 1910, has been committed to the outstanding preparation of teachers, counselors, administrators, and other school personnel. In accordance with this history and the present vision and mission of the University, the mission of the Unit is fivefold: a) educate the whole student; b) prepare high quality teachers and leaders for the Mississippi classrooms; c) conduct innovative, relevant research; d) promote a healthier region; and e) enhance cultural understanding.
The Unit has embedded knowledge, skills, and dispositions throughout its teacher education program to prepare students to become creative, bold, and determined educational leaders who possess the power of knowledge to inform, to inspire, to transform lives, and to empower a community of learners.
