Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Prepare for a rewarding teaching career through ECU’s nationally recognized Bachelor of Science in elementary education
East Carolina’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in elementary education allows students to work closely with faculty regarded as experts in their field. A hallmark of the elementary education program at East Carolina is the prevalence of practicum experiences throughout the program. Even from the beginning of the program, students have the chance to observe and work in classrooms throughout eastern North Carolina. Each semester, students can be in an elementary classroom applying the concepts and knowledge from their coursework.
The program culminates in a yearlong internship placement in a K–6 elementary classroom. In the first semester, students spend one day a week in their placement getting to know the students, teaching lessons and collaborating with the teacher. In the second semester, students attend their internship every day and gradually pick up teaching responsibilities until they are teaching all day long. Student interns have the support of ECU faculty, the classroom teacher, and a university supervisor as they finish program requirements and prepare to enter the workforce.
Get started on your elementary education bachelor’s degree
Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree in elementary education. We have the resources to answer all your questions and help you get started.
Why study elementary education at ECU?
East Carolina’s elementary education program is nationally recognized for excellence in developing pre-service educators. ECU faculty members have been called upon by organizations from around the country to present on the innovative methods used with teacher candidates in East Carolina’s undergraduate elementary education program.
Enjoy peer support and networking
ECU and the College of Education offer myriad ways to connect with your fellow students. From deciding to live in Ballard Residence Hall in the Education Living-Learning Community and studying abroad with your peers to participating in student organizations, you will find your people at ECU.
Scholarship opportunities
Every year, the College of Education gives out more than $1 million in scholarship funding. ECU is also a North Carolina Teaching Fellows affiliated university, allowing eligible students to receive up to $40,000 in forgivable loans.
Learn from award-winning faculty
ECU are consistently recognized for their teaching, research and mentorship. Under their guidance, you’ll learn not only the subject matter but also how to become a trusted mentor to other teachers.
Courses you will take in the elementary education program
At ECU, you’ll receive a thorough understanding of becoming a teacher in the elementary education setting while developing your knowledge and skills in the content area you desire to teach.
You’ll explore the latest techniques on teaching and learning, immerse yourself in the classroom environment through a semester-long internship, and evaluate assessment and engagement:
- Foundations of American Education
- Early Experience for the Prospective Teacher
- Foundational Literacy Skills: Differentiated Instruction and Assessment for the Elementary Classroom
- Teaching Students with Exceptionalities in Elementary Classrooms
View more information and courses on Degree Explorer
What can you do with your bachelor’s in elementary education?
Your completion of our bachelor’s in elementary education prepares you to enter the classroom, ready to instruct the next generation. After passing licensure exams, you will hold a valid A-level license in North Carolina.
Potential Career Paths
Some of these may require additional certifications.
- Elementary school teacher
- Gifted education teacher (with additional certification)
- Literacy coach
- International school teacher
- Curriculum specialist
Institutional and Professional Licensure Disclosures for Enrolled and Prospective Students
ECU degree programs satisfy the professional licensure and/or certification requirements in North Carolina and prepare students to sit for these exams. However, requirements in other states may be different.
If you are considering a degree program that may, would, could or potentially lead to a professional license and/or certification, please note that at this time ECU may or may not be able to advise whether a program meets requirements outside of North Carolina. Prior to enrolling in a degree program, please discuss this important topic with your program of interest.