The role of parents, educators, doctors and others in the development of children is crucial to their success. Saint Joseph's University's childhood studies major is designed for students looking to specialize in the care and development of young children and youth. Through your coursework and field experience as a childhood studies major, you will learn how to better serve your community, starting with our youngest generation.
Elementary Education, PK-4th B.L.S.
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 following can apply for Pennsylvania Level 1 teacher certification:
- Early childhood education program
- Maintain a GPA of 3.0
- Pass the required Praxis exams (knowledge and skill assessment exams required for certification)
Certification is valid for six years of teaching before renewal.
How will Saint Joseph’s University Prepare You for a Career in Elementary Education (PK-4th)?
The Office of Student Teaching and Field Experiences helps you coordinate the three required field experiences or labs, as well as your full-time, 14-week student-teaching placement. Participating in a field experience in a local Philadelphia school or a lab exposes you to a variety of classroom experiences and teaching styles.
Continue Your Education
Saint Joseph's also offers graduate programs in education including:
- Master's in Education
- Educational Leadership and Administration M.S.
- Doctor of Educational Leadership (Ed.D.)
Related Programs
The General Studies major provides students with a Bachelor of Liberal Studies (B.L.S.) degree. The General Studies major from Saint Joseph's University offers adult learners the opportunity to design a unique degree plan based on a variety of academic concentrations.