BS Elementary Education

As an elementary education student, you will complete a subject area major and may select any discipline offered by the University of Hartford or an interdisciplinary behavioral studies major. 

Clinical experiences are incorporated into most of the professional education courses, and are an important component of our commitment to support students as they put theory into action. The first clinical experience begins in a student’s first semester in the elementary education program.

The professional program includes clinical experiences that increase in time and responsibility for teaching. The final two semesters of the program include two intensive clinical experiences. One full semester of integrated professional practicum experience and one full semester of student teaching in public school settings are included.

Students who successfully complete the program in elementary education, pass the edTPA, and state subject area assessments are eligible for Connecticut certification to teach first grade through sixth grade.

Students preparing for elementary certification can enroll in a program that combines with a special education core and leads to dual certification. This program is recommended for anyone interested in employing special education skills in a regular classroom. Learn more about this program here.

Fast-track your education by earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree in only five years in our 4+1 option. You can earn a BS in Elementary Education and a Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education Cross-Endorsement in one program. The entire curriculum can be completed in five years, including summer classes after your senior year.

Connecticut and many other states require teachers to complete a master’s degree in order to maintain their teaching certification. In addition, teachers with master’s degrees typically earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

The MEd in Special Education Cross-Endorsement is a 36-credit program and includes 14 weeks of student teaching.

Additional benefits:

To transfer into a teacher education program as a college junior (48 credits or more), you must show evidence of having taken the SAT, ACT, or the Praxis Core. In addition, you must have obtained a minimum of a 3.0 (B) grade point average (GPA) in your previous coursework. Your ability to complete the program in two calendar years will depend on the specific courses required and your flexibility regarding summer coursework. Once admitted you must immediately complete the Professional Program Application. We would be happy to review your records and map out a sample plan of study. Please contact the Office of Admission:

Office of Admission
860.768.4296
admission@hartford.edu