Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Education: Elementary Education
Majors Overview October 14, 2014The pedagogy skills and basic education needed to teach young children will be taught in bachelor’s degree programs in elementary education. In order to qualify for licensure, students must examine teaching techniques, complete an internship, and take liberal arts programs.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Education: Elementary Education
Schools offer bachelor’s degree programs in elementary education as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education: Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education. Students enrolled in these programs are provided with the communication techniques, pedagogy theories, and professional courses needed to teach in a K–6 environment.
Problem-solving skills and teaching methods are explored by students. Prospective elementary teachers receive training to evaluate and access students, in addition to encouraging learning among students.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.
Coursework
Students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs are provided with a diverse education in arts, history, science, math, language arts, and literature. Students are imparted classroom instruction and hands-on training via student teaching, a form of internship wherein the student can work in a classroom environment while supervised by an education professional or licensed teacher. Core coursework may include:
•Educational psychology
•Classroom management
•Teaching principles
•Developmental psychology
•Classroom learning assessment
Job and Wage Outlook
There are expected rises in enrollments, a factor that determines the demand for teachers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). A decline in enrollments is expected in states in the Northeast, while the largest rise is expected to occur in the states in the West and South. A 17% job growth rate has been predicted for elementary teachers (except special education) over the 2010 – 2020 decade. In May 2012, elementary teachers (except special education) brought home an average annual wage of $53,090 (BLS).
Licensure and Continuing Education
Licensure is mandatory for elementary school teachers in all public schools (BLS). Licensure norms vary by state, but prospective candidates are generally required to hold a bachelor’s degree, complete a teacher training program that carries state approval, and have practical experience under supervision.
Validity of licensure can be maintained via continuing education. Additional voluntary certifications can also be acquired through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), which offers 25 certificates in different development and subject areas.
Students that wish to pursue continuing education can earn graduate degrees in elementary education. Students are taught advanced research theories and teaching methods via master’s programs. There is a focus on research in doctoral degrees in elementary education, which are devised to train students to occupy university-level teaching positions.
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