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Bachelor of Science

Students listen to a teacher in an elementary school classroom
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Elementary Education

Ranked first in the nation, our Elementary Education program prepares teacher candidates for authentic classroom teaching by exposing them to learner centered, real-world experiences. It is through these experiences that have prepared thousands of outstanding educators regionally and nationally.

Download Elementary Education Program Fact Sheet

0

regional elementary education job listings in the last year
31%
of posted jobs in elementary education require a bachelor's degree

$0

median salary for degree holders
Avery and Lexi

Avery Thorsgard

Elementary education student

“I come from a small town, and VCSU had that same feel right away. The people make you feel welcome, and they want to know you.”

Read more about Avery

Beyond graduation

Explore the possibilities

As an Elementary Education major, you will be uniquely positioned to take a variety of career opportunities, such as:

  • Elementary teacher
  • Early Childhood or Kindergarten teacher
  • Pre-school teacher
  • Special Education teacher
  • English Language Learners (ELL) teacher
  • Middle School teacher
  • Reading Interventionist

Develop your interest area

Endorsements and Certificates

VCSU offers a variety of certificates and endorsements to enhance your elementary education degree. This includes:

  • Kindergarten
  • English Language Learners (ELL)
  • Special Education Endorsements
  • Reading
  • Middle School
  • STEM Education Certificate

View all endorsements and class rotations in the VCSU Catalog.

  • Field Experiences that Prepare our Educators
    Our Elementary Education program provides innovative field experiences through observations, practicums, and substitute teaching. Teacher candidates are supported by faculty throughout these field experiences and earn full payment while substitute teaching.
  • Learn from professionals
    Student teaching is the culminating experience of the Teacher Education Program. During this time, Teacher Candidates apply what they have learned about theory and methodology through their university coursework and earlier field experiences. Student teaching provides an opportunity to plan and implement interesting, relevant lessons, as well as use a variety of assessment techniques to determine both the effectiveness of instructional strategies and the level of student learning.
    Learn more in the VCSU Catalog

Where you'll study

Housed in historical McFarland Hall, our education students are surrounded by collaboration and learning as this building houses many academic departments and is the heart of campus.
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Plan of Study

  • Biology lab science
  • Introduction to Computer Information Systems
  • Fundamentals of Public Speaking
  • College Composition I
  • Concepts of Fitness and Wellness
  • Viking Voyage
  • English Composition
  • Geology lab Science
  • United States to Present
  • Finite Mathematics
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Chemistry or Physics lab science
  • Introduction to Education
  • Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I
  • Art and Music
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Creative Activities
  • Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II
  • Understanding Cultural Diversity in Education
  • Foundations of Reading Instruction
  • Culturally Diverse Practicum
  • Survey of Geography
  • Art and Music
  • Educating Exceptional Students
  • Education Technology
  • Methods of Language Arts Instruction
  • Children’s Literature
  • Endorsement courses
  • Social Studies in the Elementary School
  • Methods of Reading in the Elementary School
  • Trends in Assessment and Educational Issues
  • Mathematics in the Elementary School
  • Elementary Practicum and Classroom Management
  • Science Methods for Elementary Teachers
  • Educational Psychology
  • Student Teaching (Elementary)
  • Senior Portfolio

Meet an advisor

David Hanson

David Hanson, M.A.

Special Appointment Assistant Professor
Department

Education

Office Location
  • McFarland Hall 427B