The history of teacher education in North Bay began in 1909 with the opening of the North Bay Normal School in the heart of town. The Normal School was renamed North Bay Teachers' College in 1953. Since 1909, over 17,000 teachers have received their professional education in North Bay. In 1972, the College moved into new quarters at the College Education Centre. One wing of the College Education Centre was carefully designed for the integration of Nipissing University College and the Teachers’ College, which took place September 1, 1973.
The Faculty has a reputation for providing a rigorous teacher education program which is demanding of the student teacher and provides well-prepared teachers for Ontario schools. In keeping with this approach, the Faculty insists that student teachers entering elementary education examine all areas of the elementary school curriculum. Student teachers entering secondary education also get an opportunity to learn and practice curriculum and teaching skills in Grades 7 and 8, in subject areas not part of their regular teaching subjects.
The mission of the Faculty of Education is to promote the professional growth of teachers through pre-service, in-service and graduate programs, and to provide educational leadership and support through consultation and research. The program aims to provide beginning teachers with an understanding of the basic philosophical, psychological and sociological foundations of education, to enable them to use a system-based approach in their teaching, and to introduce them to a rationale for curriculum design through a study of the various strands of the curriculum.
Although most graduates obtain positions in southern Ontario, the Schulich School of Education at Nipissing University has a northern outlook. Northern Ontario’s biculturalism is reflected in the elective course, Teaching in French Immersion. In addition, many students are attracted to the elective course, Aboriginal Education in Canada.