10 Top Double Majors With an Elementary Education Degree

Learn about the best double majors to pair with an elementary education degree, with an overview of how each one can benefit you in a teaching role and FAQs about the advantages of choosing to double major.

The top 10 double majors for an elementary education degree allow you to enhance your classroom with effective, engaging, and supportive teaching strategies.

Deciding to double major while earning an elementary education degree can strengthen your teaching abilities by broadening your skills and knowledge. The insight gained from combining an additional major with elementary education can benefit you in a teaching role.

Elementary Education Degree Double Majors

These top double majors for elementary education degrees each give you valuable insights that you can incorporate into your classroom to provide an effective and inclusive learning experience for your students.

1. Behavioral Science

Behavioral science combines psychology, sociology, and anthropology to examine human behavior and development. The courses, which cover behavior analysis and social behavior, provide an understanding of individuals and how they interact with each other. Paired with elementary education, this double major can help teachers with classroom and behavior management to facilitate students effectively.

2. Educational Technology

An educational technology major includes courses on:

  • instructional design
  • digital learning tools
  • online learning

Double majoring in elementary education and educational technology can prepare teachers to incorporate technology and digital resources in their classrooms to support the learning process and increase engagement.

3. Child Psychology

Child psychology, the study of psychological development in children, is a major that focuses on topics like:

  • cognitive development
  • emotional regulation
  • socialization

Teachers who earn an elementary education degree with a double major in child psychology can adapt their teaching style and strategies to meet the psychological needs of their elementary-age students and foster a supportive classroom that meets learning goals.

4. Art

An art major focuses on various types of visual arts, the techniques used, and the history of art. When paired as a double major with an elementary education degree, it prepares teachers to combine creativity with critical thinking to enhance their students' learning experience. The integration of visual arts can improve teaching strategies and learning outcomes within classrooms.

5. Education Studies

An education studies major focuses on advocating for innovation in education environments through courses in:

  • communication
  • leadership
  • design thinking

Adding education studies as an elementary education dual major gives teachers the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate learning experiences that welcome diversity and collaboration.

6. Special Education

A special education major paired with an elementary education degree allows educators to address diverse learning needs and create inclusive classrooms. Courses in a special education program cover teaching strategies to support students with disabilities, behavior management methods, and implementing individualized learning plans.

7. Early Childhood Development

Classes that make up an early childhood development major cover the cognitive, social, physical, and emotional development of children. As a double major to an elementary education degree, early childhood education gives teachers an understanding of the developmental milestones and the emotional needs of their students so they can create effective, age-appropriate learning experiences.

8. Education Leadership

An educational leadership major gives graduates a thorough understanding of the following:

  • leadership theories
  • education policy
  • school administration

Having educational leadership as a double major for an elementary education degree equips teachers with the skill set to implement effective education methods and create positive learning experiences while also preparing them for future education roles involving leadership.

9. Library Science

The courses included in a library science major focus on the study of information management, including cataloging, information retrieval, and literature for children and young adults. Library science as an education double major prepares teachers to support literacy development in their classrooms and help manage school libraries.

10. Sociology

Sociology is the study of behavior, cultural norms, and how people interact in different social contexts. Courses in a sociology major cover social theory topics that can be utilized in diverse classrooms. When added as a double major to an elementary education degree, teachers can possess a better understanding of social dynamics and social issues to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

What Is a Double Major?

A double major combines two subjects into a one-degree program, providing students with a well-rounded and customizable education. Graduates with a double major earn either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree that lists both majors. Double majoring allows students to broaden their knowledge and skill set in two separate areas to increase their career opportunities and help them excel in their field.

Double Major vs. Dual Degree

When students double major, they complete the required courses for two subjects in a single-degree program. The majors are usually related and overlap in course requirements. Dual degrees differ from double majors in that they take more time to complete, resulting in two separate degrees for distinct careers. Graduates with dual degrees can use their expertise to pursue either of their two chosen disciplines.

FAQs About Double Majoring With an Elementary Education Degree

Double majoring with an elementary education degree involves taking additional courses and makes for a more challenging program. Deciding if adding a double major is the right choice for your personal and career goals requires careful consideration when weighing the benefits. The answers to these common questions can help you through the decision process.

Can You Double Major With an Elementary Education Degree?

Yes, you can double major with an elementary education degree. Various majors complement elementary education and can enhance your overall understanding to benefit you in an elementary teaching role.

Is a Double Major With an Elementary Education Degree Worth It?

A double major with an elementary degree is worth it. Regardless of the double major you choose, the knowledge and skills you acquire can help you facilitate more effective and supportive learning environments. The knowledge you gain from combining two areas of study makes you a more versatile and innovative educator.

What Are the Benefits of Double Majoring With an Elementary Education Degree?

There are many benefits to double majoring with an elementary education degree. Your specialized set of skills can help you improve educational settings and create positive learning environments. With a double major, you can benefit from more career opportunities teaching specific subjects like English and art. The insight gained from a double major can help you implement teaching strategies that align with individual learners and diverse classrooms.

Will a Double Major With an Elementary Education Degree Improve My Career Outlook?

Yes, a double major with an elementary degree can improve your career outlook by strengthening your resume with an applicable set of skills that will help you stand out as an educator and offer you more career opportunities. A double major highlights your expertise in two areas, allowing you to excel in different areas of education and teaching.