The Big Idea
“Follow the sound of laughter and it will take you home to NEXT!”
– Vincent, NEXT Scholar
Become an Exceptional Educator 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 as a learner, as a unique individual, and a future teacher—providing tools, community and opportunities for your success.
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.
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
If you are looking for a real community that you know you can depend on, look no further. Not only is our program about trust and love, but it’s also about encouraging someone to become their best self, within school and as community members.
Alayna Todd
NEXT reminds me that my voice matters in education. It helps me grow into the kind of educator who blooms authentically—and who can help students see themselves while I continue to find my fullest self.
Ali Khatib