Early Childhood/Elementary Education: PK-4, BSEd
The Early Childhood/Elementary Education: PK-4, BSEd program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and meets high national standards of excellence.
What Will I Learn?
You will learn the essentials of teaching children in grades ranging from pre-kindergarten through 4. The focus of all core courses is the development of children and the ways to meet the needs of all students. Core course curriculum is guided by National Association for the Education of Young Children standards. The content of the courses is focused on child development and methods to teach reading, writing, spelling, social studies and science. Learning also occurs through the many hours spent in the field both observing children/classrooms and teaching in classrooms.
What are the requirements for this degree?
You must complete a total of 120 credit hours to complete the program. You will take part in over 250 hours of clinical field experiences in local district classroom settings. A GPA of 2.8 is required by the time you complete 60 credits. In addition, at the time of graduation, a GPA of 3.0 is required.
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
Completion of the program prepares you to obtain the certification required to teach in Pennsylvania's public school system. Many graduates also go on to find work in private academies or as personal tutors. Others use their degree as a springboard to employment in social work, child and youth care or other related fields.
What Career Outcomes Do Alumni Have With This Degree?
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
Ship is an excellent place to study to become a teacher because of the opportunities to:
- Observe classes in elementary, secondary and community college settings
- Observe physically challenged and exceptional learners
- Take part in student teaching
- Participate in student groups that complement the academic experience
- Receive personalized attention and advisement from experienced professors
There are also opportunities unique to Ship through:
- Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School – The school provides a unique opportunity to observe and participate in elementary school activities and classroom teaching experiences with children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Ship is the only university in Pennsylvania with an on-campus public elementary lab school.
- Bartos Child and Family Center – The center is adjacent to the lab school provides opportunities to observe and work with children ages one through five.
- Head Start – This program on campus provides more opportunities for observations and to work with children.