Best Elementary Education Degree Programs

Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is essential for those passionate about student teaching. Whether you want to become an elementary school teacher or another teaching professional, enrolling in this bachelor's degree program is the first step toward a rewarding career.

These elementary education degree programs give students hands-on field experiences and teach crucial skills, such as classroom management. Seeking higher education is pivotal for a teaching career because educators must also become lifelong learners.

Top Elementary Education Programs in the U.S.

Students should expect to learn about various topics, enroll in a teacher education program, and complete specific licensure requirements. Elementary education programs have specific enrollment and admission requirements.

In-state and out-of-state tuition rates will vary, depending on your school. There are many affordable online elementary education degrees available, but you should still explore your institution's financial aid options. Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early to determine your eligibility.

The elementary education degree programs below can be completed in-person or on-campus � students can enroll full-time or part-time. Here are the top elementary education programs from some of the best colleges in the country.

1. University of Central Florida � BS in Elementary Education

The University of Central Florida is a public research university in Orlando. It offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education through the College of Community Innovation and Education. This undergraduate degree takes about four years to complete and has an affordable per-credit-hour rate.

Students may pursue a kindergarten through 6th grade track that includes teaching certification. Two other tracks don't include teaching licensure: professional studies and lifelong learning. Courses in this program include:

• Child and Adolescent Development for Educators
• Elementary Social Studies for Teaching
• Basic Foundations of Reading

2. Vanderbilt University � BS in Elementary or Secondary Education

Vanderbilt University is a private research university in Nashville. The school offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary or secondary education through the Peabody College. Students who enroll in this program must choose between specializing in elementary or secondary education.

The elementary education specialization provides teaching experience to students through research and time in the classroom. Students who complete this program are eligible to receive a teaching license. Some courses here include:

• Practicum in Teaching Reading & Language Arts
• Social and Philosophical Aspects of Education
• Teaching Science in Elementary Schools

3. University of Florida � BA in Elementary Education

The University of Florida is a public research university in Gainesville, FL. This school offers a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education through the College of Education. This degree program includes a professional certification in elementary education.

Students should expect to participate in clinical experiences, dedicated courses, and a full-year internship. They must also maintain a GPA of 3.0 to progress in the program, meaning a grade below C is unacceptable. Courses here include:

• Teaching Mathematics in the Inclusive Elementary School
• Language Arts for Diverse Learners
• Teaching Language & Meaning Construction in Elementary Reading

4. California Baptist University � BS in Elementary Education

California Baptist University (CBU) is a private Baptist university in Riverside, CA. Students enrolled in this program will gain an undergraduate degree and California multi-subject teaching credential. CBU seeks to help students develop as Christian educators.

CBU also offers a graduate program in elementary education for teachers to advance their careers. The coursework helps aspiring educators understand how to support students through fundamental years of learning. Students should expect to take courses such as:

• Principles of Biology Lab
• Introduction to the Geosciences
• Mathematical Concepts and Application

5. University of North Texas � BS in Elementary Education

The University of North Texas is a public research university in Denton, TX. It offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education that focuses on certifying future teachers. This degree can be taken online, in person, and via a hybrid format.

The program blends elective and core courses to provide a quality education that includes student's interests. Courses here include:

• Learning With and From Children
• Teaching as Advocacy for Equity
• Early Language and Literacy Development

6. Georgia State University � BS in Elementary Education

Georgia State University is a public research university in Atlanta. The school offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education through the College of Education and Human Development.

Students may pursue several concentrations, such as English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Courses here include:

• Exploring Learning and Teaching
• Introduction to Child Development
• Integrated Science I & II

7. University of Virginia � BS in Elementary Education

The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, VA. This public research university offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education through the School of Education and Human Development.

This degree program provides students with a teaching certification in Virginia. Courses in this program include:

• General Biology
• Life Science
• Earth Systems

8. Pennslyvania State University � BS in Elementary and Early Childhood Education

Pennsylvania State (Penn State) University is a public research university in University Park, PA. It offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary and early childhood education that students can complete in one of Penn State's many campuses.

This program teaches students how to be successful educators and provides a deeper understanding of childhood development. Courses here include:

• Philosophy and Literature in Western Culture
• Reading Across Cultures
• Environmental Science

9. Minnesota State University, Mankato � BS in Elementary Education

Minnesota State University is a public four-year university in Mankato, MN. It offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education through the College of Education. Students can gain teaching licensure for grades k-6 in Minnesota.

Students can complete this program in two years so it has fewer credit hours. A graduate degree in elementary education is also available for those interested. Courses here include:

• Human Relations in a Multicultural Society
• Drug Education
• Elements of Mathematics

10. University of Michigan, Flint � BS in Elementary Education

The University of Michigan, Flint is a public four-year university in Flint, MI. It offers a Bachelor of Science in elementary education through the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education.

This program focuses on teaching about human development and educating young children. Teachers must be prepared to teach in many environments, such as private and public schools. Courses include:

• College Rhetoric
• Critical Writing and Reading
• Social Foundations of Education

FAQs About Elementary Education Degree Programs

Here are some frequently asked questions about elementary education degree programs.

What Are the Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing an Elementary Education Degree Program?

The most important factors to consider when choosing an elementary education degree program are your career goals, interests, and financial situation. You should also ensure the program you choose is accredited. If cost is a huge factor, consider an online elementary education bachelor's degree.

What Is the Difference Between a BA and a BS in Elementary Education?

The difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education is the degree focus. A BA in elementary education emphasizes the humanities, while a BS focuses more on science and math.

What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get With an Elementary Education Degree?

Elementary education degree graduates can pursue various jobs. Each school district is different, but some career paths include:

• elementary school teacher
• special education teacher
• curriculum coordinator