Saint Joseph's University Saint Joseph's University

Education - Early Childhood, PK-4

Get Started

Overview

Early childhood education encompasses pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. At Saint Joseph's University, education is approached as a vocation rather than a career. Aspiring teachers not only learn how to manage a classroom and effectively teach but also learn how their roles as educators make a difference in their communities. In-class coursework is combined with weekly field experiences in local classrooms from the first year of study through the fourth, and graduates move forward with a strong background of hands-on experience.

Field Experiences and Student Teaching

In addition, the Office of Student Teaching and Field Experiences helps you coordinate field placements in K-12 schools, as well as  full-time, 14-week student-teaching placement. 

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 (certification is good for six years of teaching before renewal). With level 1 certification in secondary education, certified teachers can take the content exams for teaching other grade levels as well as other content areas. You cannot take the exams for getting certified as a reading specialist, special education or health and physical education unless you complete the respective programs.

Study Abroad

The education department also has a strong commitment to the study abroad program here at Saint Joseph’s University. Many of our students have the opportunity to study student education in an international context in such locations as Denmark, Ireland and Spain.

Service Learning

As an education major, you'll have the option to take Service-Learning classes. These classes combine academics with experience and reflection. Lectures, texts, and tests are enhanced by weekly service engaging schools and non-profit agencies that are making a difference in the Philadelphia area.

Student Organizations

Course Catalog Information