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School of Education

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Elementary Education
Faculty

Susan Cress
Department Head

Sydney Bontrager

Ni Chang

Dan Holm

Marilyn Nash

Bruce W. Nowlin, M.S.

Connie Sprague

Barbara Thomas

Diane C. Youngs, M.S.

Click the faculty name for more information

Elementary Education

On this page you will find a brief overview of several dynamic programs offered here. What is so dynamic? The people! There are three levels of study in elementary education:

  • a Bachelor’s degree program and
  • a Master’s degree program

There are also concentration areas and special licenses which can be pursued in combination with degree programs or alone:

  • Special Education
  • English as a New Language

Are you interested in teaching the very young? The two year, associate degree program prepares those who wish to teach in early childhood settings such as child care centers and pre-school programs. Students attending classes on less than a full-time basis may expect the program to extend beyond two years.

Maybe you want to teach in an elementary school. The Bachelor’s Degree program in Elementary Education covers early childhood and middle childhood developmental levels. Completing the general education requirements for the university plus the teacher education program requirements usually requires at least four years full time.

Do you already have a Bachelor's degree but you want to be licensed to teach in an elementary school? You, too, may study for certification. The elementary education program requirements are the same as the undergraduate, but many of the courses are coded for graduate work. It is also possible to pursue a Master's degree at the same time.

Are you ready to pursue a Master's Degree? Graduate students seeking a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education will complete at least 36 hours of course work. Students must complete an application of admission to be considered for the Master’s Degree program. After completing an application, students must arrange for an appointment to meet with an academic advisor. All students will complete a research project during the last two semesters of their graduate program.

Are you an experienced teacher interested in expanding your areas of qualification? These can can be pursued in combination with degree programs or alone:

  • Reading
  • Special Education
  • English as a New Language
  • Educational Leadership