Why Earn Your Elementary Education Degree at Saint Leo University?
As a teacher, you play a significant role in a child’s life. Earn your bachelor degree in Elementary Education, and become the next person to inspire and shape future generations.
Saint Leo’s Education department 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!
This program is offered:
Campus
Education Center
Online
The major in elementary education is designed for students who plan to teach in elementary school (kindergarten through sixth grade) and to qualify for Florida teacher certification. Because this is a state-approved Teacher Education Program, Saint Leo graduates are assured Florida certification for grades K-6, including ESOL and Reading Endorsements.
Est. Time to Complete:
4 years
Credit Hours:
120 hours
Undergraduate Elementary Education Program Details
Through a series of supervised internships, B.A. Elementary Education students accumulate more than 800 hours of clinical experience by the end of their senior year—almost double the hours recommended by the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education. By the time you graduate, you’ll be well equipped to command a classroom of your own as a certified K-6 teacher. Because of our emphasis on practical field experiences, principals often note how ready our students are for final internships. Please note that the Elementary Education program is only offered in Florida.
Flexible Learning, Focused on Your Success
Learn your way at Saint Leo University with flexible options—online, campus, or at an education center. Each program has its own modality to fit your needs. Whichever option you choose, Saint Leo University is committed to your success. View the details below to see how this degree program is offered.
Campus
Immersive Campus Experience, A Community That Feels Like Home
Saint Leo University's campus in Saint Leo, Florida, offers a transformative educational experience amidst scenic landscapes, including Lake Jovita and rolling green spaces. Home to over 2,000 students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, the university fosters a tight-knit, inclusive community.
Campus students benefit from comfortable residence and dining halls, advanced learning facilities, and a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations. The proximity to Tampa Bay provides additional cultural and recreational opportunities, enriching the overall student experience.
Experience Campus Life
Flexible Education Centers, Learning Close to Home
Saint Leo University operates Education Centers in two states, offering flexible, hybrid learning options tailored to diverse student lifestyles. These centers provide eight-week academic terms starting six times per year, with evening and weekend classes to accommodate busy schedules. Students can choose from a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, benefiting from a 25:1 faculty-student ratio that fosters personalized attention and support. Each center maintains the university's commitment to academic excellence, ensuring the same quality education as the main campus.
Explore Our Education Centers
Convenient Online Learning, Empowering Your Future
Saint Leo University provides flexible and convenient online programs designed for busy students. Courses are taught by experienced faculty with real-world expertise. Students can access coursework anytime while balancing personal and professional commitments. Support services, career resources, and virtual engagement opportunities ensure a well-rounded online learning experience.
Discover Online LearningCareer Outlook
No matter which learning experience you choose, you will receive plenty of professional development opportunities, industry knowledge from expert professors, and support from the Saint Leo community. All this together means that you will be ready for a successful career or continued studies upon graduation.
Graduates of Saint Leo University’s Bachelor’s in Elementary Education (Grades K–6) are fully prepared to launch impactful teaching careers in elementary classrooms. The program emphasizes classroom management, child development, instructional design, and ethical teaching practices to support academic growth.
Potential career paths include:
- Elementary School Teacher (Grades K–6)
- Instructional Coordinator
- Special Education Support Specialist
- Curriculum Developer
- Literacy Coach
- Educational Consultant
- School Administrator (with advanced credentials)
Industry insights:
*Median annual salary: $62,340 for elementary school teachers (except special education) as of May 2024
*Projected job growth: Approximately 3%-4% growth for elementary and kindergarten teachers through 2033; annual openings average over 100,000 (including replacements)
*Pulled from Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025)
Whether aiming to teach in public or private schools, influence instructional strategies, or pursue graduate studies in education, this degree provides the foundational skills and knowledge for long-term success in a stable profession that directly impacts children’s learning and growth.
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How will you gain real experience?
Florida Teacher Certification
Saint Leo graduates qualify for Florida certification for grades K-6, including ESOL and Reading Endorsements.
Student teaching
Hone your skills through no less than four field placements, including a fulltime internship for one semester your senior year. A Saint Leo supervisor observes and coaches you throughout each placement.
Professional seminar
Prepare yourself for the job market. Create your resume, meet with school district representatives to learn about the application process, and participate in mock interviews with school principals and district administrators.
21st century classroom
Discover how to enhance learning with technologies such as iPads, the Mimio Teach and student response systems assessment system and interactive white Boards.
Conferences
Attend at least one professional conference before graduation, such as the Florida Reading Association or the Florida Council of Teachers of Math.
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 an undergraduate elementary education degree?
All students who receive Saint Leo’s bachelor degree in elementary education are certified to teach K-6 grades and also earn their ESOL and reading endorsements. Many Saint Leo graduates become leaders in their schools and districts often going on to pursue masters degrees in education leadership, reading or special education.
Where are Saint Leo elementary education graduates now?
Our students find success as certified teachers in school districts around Florida and outside of the state, thanks to interstate agreements between the Florida Department of Education and many states. Most recently Marissa Savastano, at Sanders Memorial Elementary School in Pasco County, was recognized as her school’s Teacher of the Year.
Student Stories
"Saint Leo's online MBA program in Supply Chain Management provided me the opportunity for flexible learning alongside other supply chain professionals in my industry. With this MBA, I expanded upon educational and professional abilities within the field of Supply Chain Operations."
Paige Holt- MBA Student specializing in Supply Chain Management
Paige is one of our MBA students who has taken full advantage of the opportunities offered by Saint Leo's online MBA program in Supply Chain Management.
“Learning ignites my passion to seek and find information that intrigues my soul, spirit, and mind. Education at Saint Leo University has had an extremely positive influence on my life and my development as a person. It has made me more confident and enabled me to steer into my destiny. Saint Leo University has provided me with different learning experiences that has enabled me to branch out and work with people effectively. It has helped me develop a great amount of self-discipline and, aside from teaching me some very important life skills, Saint Leo University has opened many doors for my future.”
Karen Sislava Reyes - MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING
Karen came to Saint Leo from Flagler College where she earned her undergraduate accounting degree. Karen has worked as an intern for CliftonLarsonAllen. She plans on sitting for the CPA exam this year and will then pursue a doctorate degree.
''As a graduate now pursuing my masters of science in accounting, I’m even more thankful for how well Saint leo equipped me and not just educationally but as a leader, student, and even on a personal level. It is truly a privilege to have been taught by professors whose efforts go beyond the classroom.”
Tayhana Taylor - Undergrad Bachelor of Science- Accounting
Tayhana has completed four prestigious internships, including two with the BIG 4 CPA firms of Ernst & Young and Deloitte in New York City. These internships were highly competitive, and Tayhana engaged in both audit and tax while in these roles, gaining experience with leading-edge accounting protocols. She has been offered a full-time position with Deloitte in 2025. Tayhana has published three articles with faculty in the Tapia College of Business. The most recent titled, "The Impact of COVID-19 on the Airline Industry," was published in the Journal of Finance and Accountancy in Fall 2023
Saint Leo University has truly been a stepping stone for me. When I entered this university 4 years ago, I was unaware of what I’d be like when I left. Now, 3 weeks away from graduating, I am so thankful that I was a student here. Your time at Saint Leo University is what you make of it, and Saint Leo students are provided with so much opportunity to succeed.
O'shea Williams - Bachelor of Arts Developmental Psychology
“Saint Leo is not just an academic institution, it’s a formation institution. Saint Leo embraced me for who I am, showed faith that I could be my best, and solidified the light that was shining within me.”
Charles Onyeneke ’17
University Campus, Theology
“As a child, my great-grandmother taught me how to pray and to lean on God. Saint Leo inspired us all to learn with compassion and reminded me to keep the faith.”
Brent Patterson ’21
Center for Online Learning, Religious Studies
College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services
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Saint Leo's College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services provides students with a broad education that lays a durable foundation for critical and independent thinking. For our students, learning takes place not only in the classroom but also beyond: They travel to different countries for cultural immersion and research, attend film screenings and professional development events, as well as contribute to our literary magazine.
With professors in fields from biology to sociology, the College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services supports 34 programs and provides educational experiences to more than 3,000 students at education centers in seven states, and worldwide through Saint Leo's online degree programs.
Accreditation
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees.