Elementary Education

Elementary Education Major

The BS degree in elementary education is a career-oriented program that prepares students to effectively teach young children from kindergarten through grade six.

Graduates of this teacher education program design, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate learning experiences for young children in elementary education classrooms. They are prepared to work collaboratively with families and in the community. Combined with a dual major in early childhood education, there are significant career opportunities following the program, including kindergarten through 6th grade, infant and toddler care and education, preschool programs, Head Start, and early childhood family education.

Graduates with an emphasis on elementary education will demonstrate competencies as described in the Minnesota Board of Teaching, Rules 8710.3200, Standard for Teachers of Elementary Education, and in Minnesota Rules 8710.2000, Standards for Effective Practice for all Teachers.

After completing the program, graduates will:

• Understand and apply educational principles relevant to the development of young children.
• Understand and apply the collaboration process with families and other adults to support young children's learning.
• Understand how to integrate curriculum across subject areas in developmentally appropriate ways.
• Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts of language arts, reading and literature, mathematics, social studies, science, physical education and health, and visual and performing arts.
• Demonstrate ability in teaching approaches and instructional strategies to become effective teachers in the elementary-level curriculum areas.
• Have the knowledge of and ability to use various assessment tools and practices to plan and evaluate effective teaching.
• Be able to create a motivating classroom learning environment.
• Demonstrate a view of professional development as a career-long effort and responsibility.

Elementary Education Major Courses