B.A.Ed. in Elementary Education

Students gain extensive hands-on experience by applying evidence-based instructional practices in local elementary schools while connecting coursework to authentic classroom teaching. Through guided observations, data collection, lesson design and direct instruction, they learn to differentiate learning for diverse student needs using research-based strategies. They also develop and lead engaging literacy-rich learning experiences, integrating reading and writing across content areas while building the confidence and practical skills needed for successful elementary classrooms.

Field experiences begin even before formal admission to the School of Education and continue throughout the program. Literacy courses are taught directly within elementary schools, and students complete multiple practicum experiences before entering student teaching. By graduation, candidates have accumulated hundreds of hours of classroom experience and extensive opportunities for guided instruction.

In addition to the B.A.Ed. program of study, students must complete the following general education courses for licensure:

• 6 credits in English
• 6 credits in Math
• 6 credits in Social Studies
• 6 credits in Science (must be in two different sciences)

Students who complete the B.A.Ed. are eligible for a Virginia Collegiate Professional License in PK-6 Elementary Education. In addition to completing all course and experiential requirements, students must successfully pass the Praxis assessments in Teaching Reading: Elementary and in Elementary Multiple Subjects (English, Math, Science and Social Studies). Students must receive passing scores on the required Praxis assessments in order to graduate from the program.

100% of our student teachers were offered jobs by a local school district in 2026. Though the majority of our students pursue careers as elementary teachers, a handful each year opt to continue their education by attending graduate school in fields such as counselor education or special education.

Application materials include your unofficial undergraduate transcript(s) and personal statements. Full instructions on how to apply are found below on our Applying to the Undergraduate Education Major page.