For much of its history, Lawrence has prepared students to become licensed teachers in public and private schools. Its approach to teacher education blends in-depth knowledge in a specific academic major, broad knowledge across the liberal arts and sciences, and the professional knowledge necessary to becoming a skilled and reflective practitioner. In addition, the department introduces students to the study of education as an academic discipline, enabling students to pursue graduate work in education studies (e.g., educational psychology, education policy, foundations of education, etc.).