Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education (Teacher Certification)

If your passion is to help children build the fundamental skills needed for lifelong learning success, this early elementary education bachelor’s degree (P-5) is for you! University of the Cumberlands’ college major in elementary education was designed with you in mind—the aspiring elementary school teacher who has a calling to encourage and excite learning growth in young children.

• What is an Elementary Education Degree?
• How to Become an Elementary School Teacher
• Curriculum and Degree Requirements
• Pathways Information for KCTCS Students

What is an Elementary Education Degree?

A bachelor’s degree provides the training aspiring elementary school teachers need to pursue certifications that qualify them for teaching careers. College coursework helps students gain a solid understanding of what it takes to teach young learners. They’ll cover everything from integrating technology into curriculum to best practices in teaching for young minds. These future educators should also gain a comprehensive education in age-appropriate lesson planning, classroom management and supervision strategies, how to plan educational activities, and more. 

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How to Become an Elementary School Teacher

For those interested in pursuing a career in elementary education, the first step is practical—check the teaching requirements of the certifying board for their state. Each one has slightly different qualification requirements. However, some requirements seem to be standard.

Start with an education in a relevant degree program from an accredited institution for higher learning. To teach in public school systems, a major in elementary education is a must. Aspiring elementary school teachers need to learn what it takes to successfully teach younger age groups. These programs will likely have a student teaching practicum, a requirement for certification in most, if not all, states.

From there, new educators will likely need to pass a state test and apply for teaching certification. After that, it’s a matter of applying to elementary school teacher positions. 

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Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Our elementary education program will give you an excellent foundation in teaching concepts and instructional methodology. As an elementary education major, you’ll receive quality instruction from professors who have practical teaching experience. You’ll also have access to our instructional media library with its wide range of teaching materials and media resources to help you prepare for classroom success.

While earning your Kentucky elementary education degree, you’ll also have an opportunity for field study during your 12-week practicum at one of several schools within the district.

Click here for Elementary Education Course Details

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Pathways Information for KCTCS Students

University of the Cumberlands and Somerset KCTCS have entered into an agreement for Elementary Education students. This agreement provides for a seamless pathway for students completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Educator Preparation at Somerset KCTCS to move towards completion of the Bachelor of Science degree in Education through the School of Education at University of the Cumberlands.

Under this pathway, students who have completed an Associate’s degree in Educator Preparation at KCTCS can transfer up to 80 hours of course credit to University of the Cumberlands.

The general requirement for graduation from University of the Cumberlands with the Bachelor of Science in Education is the completion of at least 120 semester hours including:

• General education – 37 hours
• Education major – 72 hours + emphasis area(s) Some of these hours are completed at the Community College level.

The academic advisor assigned to the student at the time of their admission to the Education Online Program will work with the student to develop a planned program that lists the courses completed/transferred and a list of courses to be completed.   As a part of this process, the academic advisor will also develop the planned program to ensure that a minimum of 30 semester hours numbered 300 or above are identified.  An approved copy of the planned program is forwarded to the student. 

All of the courses needed to complete the Bachelor of Science degree in Education are offered in an online format to accommodate the needs of today’s working adult.

KCTCS students interested in additional information regarding transferring coursework to University of the Cumberlands should contact the Office of Admissions. Please email ucoadm@ucumberlands.edu 

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