The Big Idea

Exceptional Educators Begin with NEXT Scholars

NEXT Scholars is an educator preparation program at Eastern Michigan University that is dedicated to YOU. From freshman year through graduation and into your career as a teacher, you’ll be part of a community. We invest in you—as a learner, as an unique individual, and a future teacher—providing tools, community and opportunities for your success.

Our programs include:

group of three students and professor

Our Approach

We center a holistic approach to supporting education students— as students and as unique individuals. Growth takes place in the classroom, as well as in shared spaces outside of class. EMU Next is the learning community designed around the needs of tomorrow’s teachers.

Innovative Curriculum

In addition to your education degree, you’ll earn a certificate in Place-Based Education, a valuable credential that will help you stand out in the job market. This training prepares you to create engaging classrooms where your students will connect learning to real issues in their own communities.

Connections and Care

When you feel a sense of belonging, you’ll have the foundation to thrive, academically and personally. NEXT Scholars is based upon the values of inclusion and welcome! Our students connect and grow, together.

Career Launchpad

You’ll excel with our mentorship program, which pairs you with a teacher in the field,  EdTalks—a student-led conference, and many other opportunities for your professional development. Once you have your degree, we offer guaranteed interviews for teaching positions with our partnering schools.

bradley sloat

NEXT Scholars matters to me because I believe strongly in what we stand for and the community we are fostering when we are together…We are together not only to cultivate community amongst fellow education students, but to collectively formulate ideas for our future as educators.
Bradley Sloat

Is teaching in your future?
Become a NEXT Scholar!