Online B.A. in Elementary Education (grades K-6)

Why choose our online Elementary Education degree?

Teacher shortages are rampant across the United States, especially in the state of Florida. In fact, Florida public schools began the 2018-2019 school year with over 4,000 vacancies, with half of these still unfilled at the mid-year point of the school year. As a teacher, you can make a positive difference in the lives of young people, and there has never been a better time for opportunities in education.

Saint Leo’s Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education online degree program is designed for students who plan to teach in elementary schools. Earning this degree will qualify graduates for Florida teacher certification. Because this is a state-approved Teacher Education Program, Saint Leo graduates are assured Florida certification, as well as ESOL and Reading Endorsements. While reciprocity exists with many other states, this online degree is only available to students in Florida.

Through a series of field work opportunities and internships, students gain a wealth of real-world experience in this curriculum. Upon earning this degree, you’ll be well equipped to command a classroom of your own.

The instructors in this bachelor’s degree program come from a wide range of backgrounds and have a wealth of practical experience within elementary education settings, allowing them to communicate this valuable practice to students. Small class sizes offer personal attention from instructors, enabling students to flourish in an online environment.

Availability

Our Bachelor's in Elementary Education is offered at University Campus, online, and at five (5) of Saint Leo's Educational Centers:

Florida: East Pasco Education Center, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Lake City, Ocala, Spring HIll

Accreditation

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Saint Leo’s education programs—including the B.A. in Elementary Education —are certified and approved by the Florida Department of Education.

Program Features: What Makes Saint Leo Different?

Saint Leo is Florida’s oldest Catholic institution of higher education. The Undergraduate Education program in the College of Education and Social Services has received national recognition for its comprehensive curriculum, extensive field experiences and values-based instruction. In 2011, the department was named a national finalist for the Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award, presented by the Association of Teacher Educators. In 2014 the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education recognized Saint Leo's Education Department for its "Innovative use of technology". And, according to a recent survey, between 92-98% of school principals who've had a Saint Leo grad and first-year teacher at their school report that they'd provide a positive recommendation for hiring. Another reason to choose Saint Leo- In the past 10 years more than 60 Saint Leo University graduates have become "Teachers of the Year" in their local schools and districts!

Our online Elementary Education degree prepares its graduates with knowledge of self, students, context, setting, pedagogy and content. Graduates are prepared with conceptual and practical skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate educational experiences in contexts beyond traditional classrooms. Coursework aligns with the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices. Students graduate from the program with a Reading Endorsement and an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Endorsement are eligible to receive a teaching certificate from the Florida Department of Education.

Throughout the online program, students explore learning theories and various influences upon education including context, culture, and individual learner characteristics. They learn and practice skills through collaborative and interdisciplinary study, experiential learning, and Saint Leo University’s Core Values. They learn to lead instruction, and make informed, evidence-based decisions that support diverse learners in a range of learning and organizational contexts. Students apply key skills from coursework complementary to the elementary education classroom.

Learning Outcomes

• Create a culture of high expectations for all students by promoting the importance of education and each student's capacity for academic achievement.
• Demonstrates deep and comprehensive knowledge of the subject taught.
• Exemplify the highest standards of the profession.

Course Highlights

For a complete listing of required courses, including individual course descriptions, please consult the 2019–2020 Undergraduate Catalog.

Professional Development Opportunities

Professional development opportunities include:

• Florida Teacher Certification: Saint Leo graduates of the elementary education program qualify for Florida certification for grades K-6, and receive both ESOL and Reading Endorsements from the Florida Department of Education.
• Student Teaching: Students complete a total of four field placements, including a full-time internship for one semester their senior year – far exceeding requirements of competitor programs. A Saint Leo supervisor observes and coaches students throughout each placement.
• Professional Seminar: Students have the opportunity to prepare themselves for the job market. During the final internship seminar, students will create their resume, meet with school district representatives to learn about the application process, and participate in mock interviews with school principals and district administrators.
• Avatars: Infused throughout the elementary education coursework are opportunities to hone teaching skills through interaction with elementary student avatars in a mixed-reality simulation environment.
• Conferences: Students are required to attend at least one professional conference before graduation, such as the Florida Reading Association or the Florida Council of Teachers of English – often by presenting with fellow students and faculty members.
• Co-curricular Activities: Participate in the Future Teachers Association and become an active member of Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society for educators.

What can you do with a B.A. in Elementary Education?

Our students find success as certified teachers in both public and private elementary schools in districts throughout Florida and outside of the state, thanks to interstate agreements between the Florida Department of Education and many states.

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• 6 Reasons to Consider a Career in Teaching