Early Childhood and Elementary Education
Get ready to make a world of difference, teaching students in grades PreK-4. PennWest University’s Bachelor's in Early Childhood and Elementary Education comprehensive teacher training program is rooted in the standards of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). It provides you with a competitive advantage in early childhood education, elementary education, human development and learning.
You’ll learn from highly qualified teachers who are also experienced PreK-4 teachers. They will help you explore child development and its impact in the early learning years. Through carefully designed coursework, extensive field experiences and a full semester of student teaching, you’ll gain insights into early childhood education and best practices in the classroom. Along the way you will build a professional, electronic portfolio that will impress future employers.
You will also receive the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Integrative STEM Education Endorsement. This valuable credential provides you with a competitive advantage and documents your ability to integrate science, technology, engineering and math concepts into the early childhood and elementary education curricula.
Upon successful completion of your bachelor’s degree, you will be eligible to sit for a qualifying exam and earn a Pennsylvania teaching certificate for pre-Kindergarten to grade 4.
This program is for you if...
- You aspire to shape young minds: This program is tailored for individuals passionate about impacting the foundational years of children’s education, catering to students from PreK to grade 4.
- You're looking for comprehensive training: The program combines research-based instruction with practical hands-on experience. It encompasses everything from child development and early learning impacts to classroom best practices, preparing you to become a competent educator.
- You value specialized endorsements: Graduates receive the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Integrative STEM Education Endorsement, providing a competitive edge by documenting your ability to integrate science, technology, engineering, and math concepts into early childhood and elementary curricula.
- You seek a program with strong outcomes and community connections: The program not only has a legacy of excellence dating back to 1857 but also provides personalized career guidance and job-placement support. Field experiences start as early as your first year, and there’s an opportunity to participate in Professional Development Schools collaborations.
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120 Credits for BSED
What You'll Study
In the Bachelor's in Early Childhood and Elementary Education program at PennWest University, you will engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills for a successful career in teaching. You'll dive into learner development, understanding the unique ways children grow cognitively, socially, and emotionally, and learn to create inclusive, supportive learning environments. Your studies will encompass a wide range of subjects, from the central concepts of the Pre-K to Grade 4 curriculum to innovative instructional strategies that promote critical thinking and problem-solving. The program emphasizes the importance of diverse cultures and communities, ensuring each learner can meet high standards. Furthermore, you'll gain hands-on experience through extensive fieldwork and a semester of student teaching, preparing you for real-world challenges. Specializations like the Integrative STEM Education Endorsement will also be part of your coursework, enhancing your teaching toolkit with essential science, technology, engineering, and math integration skills
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Early Childhood and Elementary Education, BSED | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
This is an In-Person program. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.
What You'll Become
There’s a steady demand for well-qualified PreK and elementary school teachers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be approximately 120,300 job openings for these teachers each year, over the next decade. Many of these openings will result from workers who transfer to different occupations, or who leave the workforce for retirement and other reasons.
Career Paths
- Elementary School Teacher
- Childcare Facility Director
- Youth Services Director
- Substitute Teacher
- Curriculum Author
Teacher Shortage
PennWest initiates recruitment, training programs to address U.S. teacher shortage.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
$64,741
The average elementary school teacher salary in Pennsylvania according to slary.com.
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which promotes excellence through quality assurance and continuous improvement.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.