Education Online Degree (Distance Learning)

William Penn University’s Distance Learning is designed for non-traditional students who wish to earn their teaching degree and endorsements in a flexible and supportive environment. Our fully online program provides an ideal balance between education and life, allowing you to pursue your academic goals while managing personal and professional commitments.

Most courses are delivered synchronously via Zoom, providing an interactive learning experience without the need for on-campus attendance. The Distance Learning Pathway provides the flexibility to earn your education degree entirely online, with no on-campus classes required.

bACHELOR OF ARTS DEGREE OPTIONS

Elementary Education (K-6)

The Elementary Education (K-6) program at William Penn University prepares students to become effective educators for kindergarten through sixth grade. Through coursework and hands-on teaching experiences, students gain the skills needed to create inclusive, engaging classrooms and support young learners' academic growth. Graduates are ready to make a lasting impact as licensed educators, with the option to follow a pathway that includes endorsements in either Reading or Instructional Strategist, allowing them to specialize in literacy development or differentiated instruction.

p.e/health (k-12)

The P.E/Health (K-12) program at William Penn University prepares students to teach Physical Education and Health across all grade levels. With a mix of theory and hands-on experience, students learn to promote fitness, healthy living, and well-being. Through coursework and field experiences, they gain skills to design engaging lessons, assess progress, and create inclusive environments. Graduates are ready to become licensed P.E and Health educators for K-12 students, with the ability to adapt instruction for diverse learning needs.

Distance Learning Endorsements

The total number of required credits may vary based on applicable transfer credits

Elementary Classroom K-6

Elementary Education (K-6) is a 49 credit hour program for teachers looking to add an Elementary Education endorsement to a current Iowa educator’s license.

Physical Education K-8, 5-12

Physical Education K-8 and Physical Education 5-12 are 25 and 28 credit hour programs, respectively, for teachers looking to add a Physical Education endorsement to a current Iowa educator’s license.

hEALTH k-12

Health K-8 and Health 5-12 are 25 and 28 credit hour programs, respectively, for teachers looking to add a Health endorsement to a current Iowa educator’s license. If they already hold a Physical Education endorsement, the credit requirements are reduced to 18 for both programs.

Reading K-8, 5-12

Reading (K-8), a 27 credit hour program, and Reading (5-12), a 25 credit hour program, are options for educators who would like to add a Reading endorsement to a current Iowa educator’s license.

Instructional Strategist 1 K-8, 5-12

Instructional Strategist I K-8 and 5-12 are programs designed for teachers looking to add a special education endorsement to their current Iowa educator’s license. For those with a K-6 Elementary Endorsement, the program requires 21 credit hours, while those with a 5-12 endorsement must complete 27 credit hours.

Coaching K-12

Coaching K-12 is a 13 credit hour program for teachers looking to add a Coaching endorsement to a current Iowa educator’s license.

Explore Our Distance Learning Brochure

Name	Office Phone	Email	Title
Melissa Schettler	641-673-1320	melissa.schettler@wmpenn.edu	Director of Distance Learning
Angie Dawson	641-673-1032	angela.dawson@wmpenn.edu	Distance Learning Academic Advisor
Lindsey James	641-673-1118	lindsey.james@wmpenn.edu	Distance Learning Academic Advisor
Myron McReynolds	641-673-1193	myron.mcreynolds@wmpenn.edu	Distance Learning Placement Coordinator
Will Utter	641-673-1305	utterw@wmpenn.edu	Distance Learning Admissions Counselor