The Marian University School of Education knowledge base emerges from six specific thematic areas: intentionality of action, developmentally appropriate practices, best practices in the content areas, modeling and mentoring, diversity/transcultural focus, and reflective practice, and ensures that the professional education programs are focused on essential knowledge, professional skills, and dispositions that reflect caring and competent beginning teachers. The School of Education embraces the vision of the university to provide education that profoundly transforms lives, society, and the world.

To do this, the university prepares graduates who are

• Knowledgeable and professional;
• Inquisitive in a broad, multi-dimensional and critical way;
• Ethically informed and holistic in perspective;
• Spiritually mature

To support this vision, the university embraces the following mission: to be a Catholic university dedicated to excellent teaching and learning in the Franciscan and liberal arts traditions. As part of a liberal arts institution that intends to transform Marian University students' lives, the School of Education embraces a complementary vision: to prepare teachers who can transform the lives of their students, families, and the wider community. The foundation for these visions is based on four Franciscan core values of dignity of the individual, responsible stewardship, reconciliation, and peace and justice. These form part of the basis for candidate and program assessment. Taken together, these items inform the school's philosophy statement:

The process of becoming a teacher through Marian University's education program begins with our teacher candidates learning to take responsibility for themselves and others. This process continues with their building upon inherited values and developing their own understanding of the world. Each candidate’s personal and professional growth is facilitated through inquiry, interaction, and independent application. This growth is supported by a faculty that models and mentors candidates in a supportive and caring community. The completed preparation process provides a foundation that enables powerful learning experiences for children.