Bachelor of Science in Education in Elementary Education

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at the University of Kansas (KU) prepares students to become effective, reflective educators for children from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. The program blends a strong liberal arts foundation with professional preparation in teaching, learning, and child development. Coursework is paired with extensive, supervised field experiences that allow students to apply theory in authentic classroom settings while developing the instructional, assessment, and classroom management skills essential to success in today’s schools.

As an elementary education major, students study how children learn across developmental stages while building deep knowledge in core academic content areas such as literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The program emphasizes inclusive teaching practices that support diverse learners, culturally responsive instruction, and evidence-based strategies aligned with state and national standards. Graduates are prepared to design engaging learning experiences, assess student progress, and foster positive learning environments that support both academic and social-emotional growth.

The curriculum integrates general education coursework with professional education classes focused on pedagogy, curriculum design, instructional technology, and assessment. Throughout the program, students participate in progressively intensive field experiences in elementary classrooms, working directly with students and mentor teachers. These experiences culminate in a full-time student teaching placement that provides sustained, hands-on practice in real classroom environments and prepares graduates to transition into the teaching profession.

Students pursuing elementary education at KU may choose from two concentrations that align with their professional goals and areas of interest:

• Elementary Education: Prepares students to teach core academic subjects in general education elementary classrooms, emphasizing instructional planning, assessment, and classroom management.
• Elementary Education Unified: Prepares students to teach in inclusive elementary settings by integrating general and special education coursework focused on supporting students with disabilities and diverse learning needs.

Both concentrations share a common commitment to inclusive, high-quality instruction and provide students with opportunities to develop the skills needed to support all learners. The program’s structure ensures that graduates are well prepared to meet the academic, social, and developmental needs of children in a variety of school contexts.

Graduates complete all academic and clinical requirements necessary for initial teacher licensure in Kansas for pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. In addition, students may choose to complete testing requirements to add middle-level licensure in grades five through eight, expanding their teaching opportunities.