Elementary Education

Program Description

If you want to help others grow and learn and be a positive force for change in your community, consider the University of Utah’s undergraduate Elementary Teacher Education program. The major provides broad preparation across many academic disciplines and concentrated professional training for teaching the elementary school curriculum. Students complete a variety of classes on education topics, such as literacy, community relations, child development, and ethnic studies; particular emphasis is given to the teaching of literacy, mathematics, and science. In their final year of studies, students are placed into a cohort and assigned to local classrooms to complete student teaching assignments. Upon successful completion of the program and the Praxis II Elementary Education Content Knowledge Exam Exam and Pedagogical Performance for Teachers (PPAT), you will be recommended to the Utah State Board of Education to receive your K-6 Utah Professional Teaching License. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to work with students across various age and ability levels, and from diverse cultural, linguistic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The Student Experience

For skill enhancement, students can earn an ESL Endorsement by completing additional coursework and a certification exam. If you want to get involved in your community, be sure to participate in the outreach activities hosted by the Urban Institute for Teacher Education (UITE). These events give you the chance to professionally network and socialize with other students and faculty. Additional involvement opportunities include the Education & Advocacy Bennion Center Student Groups, the Special Education Student Advisory Committee, or the Education Policy and Leadership Student Advisory Committee.

Career Opportunities

Once you have graduated, you will apply the skills gained from your coursework and student teaching to a career as a kindergarten, elementary, or middle school teacher. Students can also find jobs as academic support specialists, nannies, tutors, and school administrators. With additional education or certification, you can also pursue a career as special education teacher, high school teacher, librarian, principal, therapist, counselor, or academic advisor.

More Info

• Urban Institute for Teacher Education
• College of Education
• Department Advising
• Career & Professional Development Center

Catalog

• Elementary Education BA/BS

Exploratory Classes

• EDU 1010 - Intro to Teaching
• ED PS 2110 - Learning and Development
• FCS 1500 - Lifespan Human Development