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Wednesday 29 October 2014

BS in Elementary Education: Degree Overview

Learn about the curriculum and internship requirements of a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Find out about the licensing requirements and continuing education options for those entering this field.

Essential Information

Bachelor's degree programs in elementary education are available as a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Science in Education: Elementary Education. The programs provide students with the professional courses, pedagogical theories and communication techniques to educate children in K-6 settings. Students explore teaching practices and problem-solving skills in the required coursework and through a student teaching experience. A high school diploma or its equivalent is required for admission into a college or university.

Course Topics

Bachelor's programs provide students with a diverse education in literature, language arts, math, science, history and arts. Learners receive classroom instruction and participate in practical education through student teaching, which is an internship where the student works in a classroom setting under the supervision of a licensed teacher or education professional. Some common classes include:
  • Developmental psychology
  • Teaching principles
  • Educational psychology
  • Classroom learning assessment
  • Classroom management

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

Enrollment contributes significantly to the demand for teachers; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that from 2010-2020 enrollment levels are expected to rise (www.bls.gov). States in the northeast are expected to have declines in enrollment, while the states in the south and west will have the largest increases. Additionally, the BLS forecasted a 17% increase for elementary teachers (except special education) from 2010-2020, which is about average. In May 2012, elementary teachers (except special education) earned a mean annual salary of $56,130, according to the BLS.

Licensure and Continuing Education

Elementary teachers in all public schools are required to obtain licensure, stated the BLS. Each state sets its own requirements for attaining a teaching license, but they typically include having a bachelor's degree, completing a state-approved teacher training program and having supervised practical experience. Continuing education is necessary to keep the license valid. Teachers can acquire additional voluntary certifications from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), which offers 25 certificates in different subject and development areas (www.nbpts.org).
Graduate degrees in elementary education are also available for students who want to pursue their studies further. Master's programs teach students more advanced teaching methods and research theories. Doctoral degrees in elementary education focus on research and can prepare students to teach at the university level.

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