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Elementary Education Degree

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Elementary Education Degree

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About the elementary education program 

Missouri Southern State University's Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Elementary Education prepares future teachers to educate students in grades 1–6 while providing opportunities to specialize in high-demand areas. Through hands-on classroom experiences, supportive faculty, and state-approved teacher preparation, you'll graduate ready for teacher certification and a rewarding career in education.

Students can customize their degree by choosing one of three pathway options that expand their expertise and career opportunities:

  • Elementary Education/Special Education: Leads to certification for elementary grades 1-6 and special education grades K-12.
  • Elementary Education/English Language Learner (ELL): Leads to certification for elementary grades 1-6 and ELL grades K-12.
  • Elementary Education/Early Childhood: Leads to certification for pre-K/elementary from birth to 6th grade. 

Are you already employed in a school district as a paraprofessional or teacher?
Check out our Online Elementary Degree options. 

Is the Elementary Education Degree Right for You?

The Elementary Education program is ideal for students who enjoy working with children and want to make a lasting impact in the classroom. If you're passionate about helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally, this program provides the knowledge and classroom experience to prepare you for success.

This program may be a great fit if you:

  • Want to teach students in grades 1–6.
  • Enjoy working with children in a collaborative, engaging environment.
  • Want to teach multiple subjects in one classroom.
  • Are interested in creating creative, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Plan to pursue Missouri teacher certification and potentially graduate study in education.
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What You'll Learn in the Elementary Education Degree

Through coursework, field experiences, and student teaching, you'll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to become an effective educator.

You'll learn how to:

  • Design engaging lessons that support diverse learning styles.
  • Apply child development and learning theory in the classroom.
  • Plan curriculum aligned with state learning standards.
  • Use instructional strategies that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Create positive, inclusive classroom environments.
  • Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
  • Use formative and summative assessments to guide instruction.
  • Reflect on your teaching practices and pursue professional growth.
  • Build partnerships with schools, families, and communities.

Elementary Education Careers

Graduates of MSSU's Elementary Education program are prepared for teacher certification in Missouri and careers working with young learners. Depending on the pathway you choose, you'll also qualify for additional certification areas that increase your career opportunities.

Graduates often pursue careers as:

  • Elementary School Teacher (Grades 1–6)
  • Special Education Teacher (K-12)
  • English Language Learner (ELL) Teacher (K-12)
  • Early Childhood Educator (Birth-3)

Many graduates also continue their education through master's programs in areas such as educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, or school administration.


curriculum & courses 

The Elementary Education degree curriculum combines foundational education coursework, field experiences, and clinical practice to prepare students for teacher certification in grades 1–6. Students complete coursework in areas such as child development, instructional strategies, curriculum planning, assessment, and classroom management while gaining hands-on experience in real classroom settings.

Explore the full curriculum and course requirements:

Program Format, Location & Schedule

  • Format: On-campus program with hands-on learning experiences and classroom field placements.
  • Location: Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri.
  • Schedule: Full-time and part-time options may be available based on course availability and student needs.
  • Time to Degree: Most students complete the Elementary Education degree in approximately four years of full-time study.
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Related Programs You Might Like 

  • Middle School Education (5–9) - Prepare to teach students in grades 5–9 through a content-focused teacher preparation program with hands-on classroom experiences.
  • Secondary Education (9–12) - Develop the skills and subject-area knowledge needed to teach high school students in your chosen discipline.
  • K–12 Education - Prepare to teach specialized subjects across all grade levels, from kindergarten through 12th grade.

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