What Is an Elementary Education Degree?

Elementary education degrees prepare students to become elementary school teachers. The most common type is a bachelor's in elementary education.

These degrees are required to teach in many states but also have several benefits beyond that. Keep reading to learn more about elementary education degrees.

Definition of an Elementary Education Degree

Elementary education degrees are designed to train future elementary school teachers. These degrees are commonly offered as bachelor's and master's degrees. They cover teaching concepts for multiple grade levels, usually preschool or kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade.

All states require public school teachers to hold a state teaching certification. While licensure requirements vary by state, they typically include holding at least a bachelor's degree in education and completing a teacher preparation program, also referred to as an educator preparation program.

Often, bachelor's degree programs include teacher preparation programs, allowing students to take just one program for licensure. These programs include core teacher education courses and student teaching field experiences. Many colleges offer affordable online elementary education degrees so you can work in the field without incurring debt.

Elementary Education Curriculum and Coursework

While every elementary education program is slightly different, there are a few core course topics these programs cover. They include:

• assessment and evaluation
• child development
• classroom management
• creating inclusive learning environments for diverse learners
• curriculum and instruction
• educational technology
• foundations of special education

If you're planning to be a general education teacher, you'll also take courses on pedagogy, or the art of teaching, of subjects like language arts, math, science, reading, and social studies. If you want to teach a specific content area, like art, music, or physical education, you'll take pedagogy courses in that subject.

Usually, in the final semester, you'll complete your student teaching experience. During this time, you'll be working with young students in an elementary classroom under the guidance of an experienced, licensed teacher. Some programs also scatter shorter field experience and practicum throughout the program.

What Skills Will I Learn With a Bachelor's Degree in Education?

Bachelor's degrees in education, whether a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science, are designed to provide you with the core competencies and skills needed to thrive in your elementary teaching career. These include:

• assessment skills
• behavioral intervention skills
• decision-making skills
• classroom management skills
• lesson planning skills
• problem-solving skills

In addition, you'll gain a deeper understanding of child development and how the minds of young children work, allowing you to teach children in an effective, engaging way.

Career Opportunities for Elementary Education Majors

Most students who earn a degree in elementary education go on to earn their teacher certification and work as elementary or sometimes early childhood education teachers. They may work for public or private schools.

Other career paths you can consider with an elementary education major include:

• childcare administrator
• educational consultant
• instructional coordinator
• school district elementary education coordinator
• training and development specialist
• youth services specialist

Note that some of these roles may require several years of experience as a teacher or additional higher education, like a graduate degree.

Certification and Licensing Requirements for Elementary Education Programs

As we mentioned above, all states require public school teachers to hold a state teaching license or certification. While requirements vary by state, most require at least a bachelor's degree in education and the completion of a teacher education program approved by the state or the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

These programs are designed to meet state requirements for licensure. They include teaching courses and student teaching experiences.

Additionally, all states require teachers to take teaching exams before earning their licenses. Some states use their own teaching exams, while others use the PRAXIS teaching tests. Elementary school teachers will usually need to take a basic teaching exam and, if they are specializing in a content area, an exam for that content area.

States also require teachers to pass a background check. Some may require fingerprinting. Other requirements, like first aid and CPR certification or suicide prevention courses, will depend on the state. You can usually find information about what your state requires on the state's Department of Education website.

Many states also require teachers to renew their licenses periodically. Teachers may be required to complete professional development to renew their licenses.

Benefits of an Elementary Education Degree

There are several benefits to holding an elementary education degree. This is especially true if you want to be a teacher, as it's typically a requirement.

Other benefits include a better understanding of child development and behavior, as well as the ability to develop behavior intervention strategies and effective lesson plans. Elementary education degrees also help you develop your critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Challenges of an Elementary Education Degree

There are a few challenges that elementary education students may run into throughout their degree program. However, they may vary from person to person, depending on their abilities.

For example, someone who struggles with math may find an elementary education degree a little challenging. While these degrees aren't the most math-heavy, they usually include a few core math courses and courses on teaching mathematics to young learners.

Additionally, the student teaching portion of the program can be difficult for some. While student teaching is a key part of preparing you to work as a teacher, it can be exhausting for some. It can be even more difficult if you're trying to schedule student teaching around a full-time job or looking after family.

FAQs About Elementary Education Degree Programs

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about elementary education programs.

What Degree Is Best for Elementary Education?

If you want to become an elementary school teacher, the best degree is a bachelor's in elementary education. Ensure this leads to certification or licensure that is accepted in your state.

What Can You Do With an Elementary Education Degree Besides Teaching?

As we mentioned above, there are several other roles you can take on with an elementary education degree besides teaching. You can work in areas like administration, consulting, or child services.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Elementary Education Degree?

A bachelor's elementary education degree usually requires 120 credit hours; most students complete this within four years if they study full-time. Two years are spent completing general education requirements, and two in the major.

However, some colleges offer accelerated programs that allow you to finish within three years. Additionally, if you can't commit to a full-time schedule, you can study part-time, but this will take longer.

Are There Online Options for Obtaining an Elementary Education Degree?

Several colleges and universities around the U.S. offer online elementary education degrees. These can be a great way to earn your degree while balancing a busy life, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, these degrees usually only guarantee licensure for the state the school is in. If you're earning an online degree through a College of Education in a different state, check with your state's Department of Education to ensure you can transfer your licensure.

Second, even if your program is online, you'll still have to complete student teaching programs in person. Many online programs allow you to complete student teaching at a school district near you, but not all.

Begin Your Elementary Education Degree Today

If you feel your calling is to become an elementary school teacher, check out the accredited programs on Learn.org today. Contact individual schools to request information on program offerings, admissions requirements, and more.