Saint Joseph's University Saint Joseph's University

Education - Early Childhood, PK-4

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Overview

Adult learners who major in early childhood education at Saint Joseph’s University focus their studies on child development, building educational foundations, the role of schools in society, and the assessment and evaluation of learning and progress.

What is an Elementary Education (PK-4th) B.L.S.?

The elementary education degree program is designed for future teachers preparing to educate pre-kindergarten through fourth-grade students. Aspiring teachers not only learn how to manage a classroom and teach effectively but also learn how their roles as educators make a difference in their communities. Coursework is combined with weekly field experiences in local classrooms from the first year of study through the fourth.

As an adult learner, we understand that you may be managing a career, a family and your educational pursuits simultaneously. With a variety of online, on-campus and hybrid programs, Saint Joseph's University offers the flexibility to work around your schedule to help you earn a bachelor's degree. Whether you prefer to take classes during the day or at night, online or on-campus, our faculty and staff are here to support you every step of the way.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Elementary Education (PK-4th)?

Our elementary education program is approached as a vocation rather than a career. Saint Joseph's University adult learners studying elementary education become dedicated teachers who nurture, mentor and guide young minds through their critical elementary years. Graduates move forward with a strong background and hands-on experience fueled by a passion for teaching and a love for learning.

Earn Your Teacher Certification

Students who successfully complete the program, maintain a GPA of 3.0 and pass the required PRAXIS exam (a knowledge and skills assessment exam required for certification) can apply for Pennsylvania Level 1 teacher certification. This certification is good for six years of teaching before renewal.

How will Saint Joseph’s University Prepare You for a Career in Elementary Education (PK-4th)?

FIELD EXPERIENCES AND STUDENT TEACHING

The Office of Student Teaching and Field Experiences coordinates field placement in K-12 schools, as well as full-time, 14-week student-teaching placement.

Many education courses at Saint Joseph's University involve a field component to prepare you for your student-teaching experience. In these courses, you will spend three hours per week in an elementary school classroom. Field experience requirements increase in responsibility from first observing teachers in their area of study, then assisting with small group work and finally preparing and teaching lesson plans.

Participating in a field experience in a local Philadelphia school or a lab exposes you to a variety of classroom experiences and teaching styles. Saint Joseph's teacher education and special education departments have strong relationships with local public, charter and private schools and manage this field component for students. These departments emphasize a strong commitment to urban education and a preferential option for low-income families.

SERVICE LEARNING

As an education major, you will have the option to take service-learning classes. These classes combine academics with experience and reflection. Lectures, textbook reading and tests are augmented by service practice with schools and non-profit agencies in the Philadelphia area.

STUDY ABROAD

The education department has a strong commitment to study abroad. Many of our students have the opportunity to study student education in an international context in such locations as Denmark, Ireland and Spain.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Continue Your Study in Education

Saint Joseph's offers a variety of advanced degree options to help graduates advance their careers, including:

 

Course Catalog Information