Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education—STEM Emphasis: Courses, Careers & Financing

A Bachelor of Science in elementary education with an emphasis in STEM is designed for aspiring educators who are passionate about teaching young students while wanting to focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in the classroom.

This degree program equips future teachers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively integrate STEM subjects into elementary education, ensuring that students develop strong foundational skills in these critical areas from an early age.

To learn more about whether this degree is right for you, use this guide to provide information about the courses you will take and career opportunities you'll have

What Is a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis?

A bachelor's degree in elementary education?TEM emphasis prepares students to teach children in kindergarten through sixth grade, with a special focus on science, technology, engineering, and math subjects.

The program typically includes courses in educational psychology, instructional strategies, and classroom management, along with specialized STEM courses that cover topics such as robotics, coding, environmental science, and math education to ensure graduates can integrate STEM into the broader elementary curriculum.

In addition to coursework, students will participate in student teaching placements in elementary schools, where they can apply their knowledge in real classroom settings. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing effective teaching practices and gaining confidence as an educator.

Upon graduation, students are eligible for teaching certification, which is required to teach in public schools. This degree is ideal for those who are passionate about STEM and want to inspire the next generation of innovators and thinkers.

BS in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis Degree Core Curriculum

The courses in this program are a mix of broad educational and STEM educational theory classes along with a semester-long student teaching. We've listed major courses below.

• Survey of special education: Teaching children with exceptionalities: students develop the ability to create educational environments beneficial to students with a broad range of disabilities
• Three-dimensional teaching in STEM classrooms: focus on implementing practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas into the classroom
• Instructional methods for STEM: covers how to successfully teach STEM and provide alternate ways for students to demonstrate learning
• STEM tools in the modern classroom: introduction to the tools and methodologies used in STEM education, including robotics, coding, and digital resources
• Methods and strategies for teaching mathematics: focuses on teaching mathematical concepts to young students using hands-on and inquiry-based approaches
• Project-based learning and design thinking in STEM education: teaches students how to develop a project-based learning environment where students have more control over their learning
• Creating and managing equitable and engaging learning environments: teaches techniques for maintaining an effective and inclusive learning environment in STEM-focused classrooms
• Child and early adolescent development and psychology: explores the psychological principles of learning and how they apply to teaching STEM subjects
• Interdisciplinary teaching and learning in STEM: guides students in creating cohesive STEM lesson plans that align with state and national standards

Where Can I Earn a BS in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis?

As STEM education becomes more important in our society, more schools will decide to offer this degree. However, there are currently only two universities that have it.

Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education with a STEM emphasis, designed to prepare future teachers to integrate STEM into their teaching practices.

NC State University has a Bachelor of Science in elementary education with a concentration in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics program. However, the program's purpose is to provide content knowledge of STEM subjects, instead of providing innovative ways to incorporate it across the curriculum.

If you're interested in a STEM elementary education program, here are some other options you can pursue:

• Merrimack College: offers a double major in education in STEM
• Sacred Hearth University: has students complete a BS in STEM and then earn their elementary education license and a Master of Arts in Teaching, all in five years
• Hofstra University: offers a dual degree program where students double major in STEM and early childhood/childhood education and then complete a master's in early childhood/childhood education with a STEM concentration

How Long Does It Take To Get a BS in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis?

You will spend seven semesters taking education courses and one semester completing your student teaching, which means you should plan to be in school for four years.

Career Opportunities for an Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis Graduate

Adding STEM to your elementary education degree allows you to pursue several careers, especially if you earn your teaching license. Here are some common roles (some may require you to earn a master's degree):

• elementary school teacher
• early-childhood STEM teacher
• elementary school STEM teacher
• moderate disabilities STEM teacher
• STEM program school administrator
• tutor in one of the STEM disciplines

Financial Aid Options for BS in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis Majors

Pursuing a STEM elementary education degree shows that you are willing to invest in the future generation, but the cost of the degree may deter you from starting this program. To help with the cost, we've listed some financial aid options below.

Scholarships

Since you don't have to pay back the money you receive from scholarships, they are a great way to fund your education. Many universities, private organizations, and professional associations offer scholarships specifically for education majors with a focus on STEM.

Grants

The federal government offers the TEACH grant to education undergraduate students who are willing to work in a low-income school in a high-need subject. If you are willing to do so, you can receive a little over $3,500 per year toward your tuition.

You can also apply for the Pell Grant, which is offered to undergraduate students in financial need. Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify.

Federal Student Loans

Federal student loans are another common way to finance education. These loans must be repaid, but they usually have lower interest rates than private loans. It's wise to use loans as a last resort.

Is a Bachelor's Degree in BS in Elementary Education?TEM Emphasis Worth It?

This degree is great to earn if you enjoy STEM and working with elementary students. You'll be able to teach what you love while learning how to help students develop and grow.

Plus, the demand for STEM-focused instruction will continue to grow, meaning that you can secure a job after you graduate. Because STEM careers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, are expected to grow by 11% over the next few years, more students need to be proficient in these areas.

What Skills Will I Gain in a STEM-Focused Elementary Education Degree Program?

This degree program will help you gain the following skills:

• STEM integration: able to incorporate science, technology, engineering, and math into elementary education
• Classroom management: develop techniques to manage a STEM-focused classroom effectively
• Curriculum development: create lesson plans and curricula that align with STEM standards and engage young learners
• Critical thinking and problem-solving: foster these skills in students through hands-on STEM activities and projects
• Instructional technology: utilize digital tools and resources to enhance STEM learning in the classroom