(B.A.) in Elementary Education
Prepare to inspire young learners through hands-on classroom experience and professional training for K–6 multi-subject teacher certification.
Inspire young learners.
Lead future generations.
West Liberty University’s Elementary Education program combines strong academic preparation, hands-on classroom experience, and personalized faculty support to help aspiring teachers become confident, effective educators. Through field experiences, residency placements, and evidence-based teaching practices, students graduate ready to serve diverse learners and communities.
Program
Overview
Elementary education professionals play a critical role in shaping children’s academic, social, and emotional development. West Liberty University’s Elementary Education program prepares teacher candidates with a strong foundation in educational theory, instructional methods, classroom management, literacy, mathematics, science, and assessment while providing meaningful experiences in real classroom settings.
Who This
Program Is For
Future Elementary Teachers
Students who are passionate about working with children and want to become certified teachers in grades K-6.
Community-Focused Leaders
Individuals who want to make a positive impact in schools, communities, and the lives of young learners.
Creative Educators
Students who enjoy developing engaging lessons, fostering curiosity, and helping children succeed academically and socially.
Lifelong Learners and Mentors
Those who value relationship-building, individualized support, and guiding students through important developmental years.
Students Seeking Hands-On Experience
Individuals looking for extensive fieldwork, residency placements, and supervised classroom teaching experiences before graduation.
What
You’ll Learn
Students gain the knowledge, skills, and practical teaching experience needed to support diverse learners, design effective instruction, assess student growth, and create inclusive classroom environments.
Instructional Planning & Teaching
- Design standards-based lesson plans
- Develop engaging, age-appropriate learning activities
- Apply evidence-based teaching strategies
Child Development & Student Learning
- Understand child growth and development
- Support diverse learning needs
- Foster positive classroom environments
Assessment & Professional Practice
- Use classroom assessment to guide instruction
- Analyze student performance data
- Collaborate with families, colleagues, and communities
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum balances general studies, professional education coursework, teaching methodology, content-area preparation, field experiences, and two residency semesters that provide extensive classroom-based learning. Students build a strong foundation before progressing to advanced professional coursework and student teaching experiences.
Program Structure
General Studies Foundation
- Communication
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
Professional Education Core
- Educational Psychology
- Foundations of Education
- Instructional Technology
- Exceptionalities and Inclusion
Methods & Materials Coursework
- Mathematics Instruction
- Language Arts Methods
- Science Methods
- Assessment and Instructional Design
Residency Experiences
- Residency I
- Residency II (Professional Semester)
Required Prerequisites Include:
- COM 101
- ENG 101
- ENG 102 or ENG 103
- Foundational general studies coursework
- Requirements outlined within the Teacher Education admission process
Admission Requirements
Students must successfully progress through the Teacher Education admission process, which includes multiple admission points leading to residency experiences, graduation, and certification. Specific requirements are maintained by the College of Education and Human Performance.
Career &
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for careers in elementary education, instructional support, educational leadership pathways, and community-based educational settings. The program emphasizes professional competence, classroom readiness, and certification preparation.
- Elementary School Teacher (Grades K-6)
- Reading or Literacy Support Specialist
- Educational Program Coordinator
- Curriculum and Instruction Support Roles
- Community and Youth Education Programs
- After-School and Enrichment Programs
Through rigorous academic preparation, classroom-based experiences, and residency placements, graduates develop the professional knowledge and practical skills needed to enter the education profession with confidence and pursue teacher certification requirements.
Admission
Requirements
The Elementary Education program follows a structured teacher preparation model designed to ensure students are academically prepared and ready to meet professional standards for classroom practice and certification.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Completion of the Teacher Education admission process
- Successful progression through designated admission points
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
- Achievement of required academic standards established by the College of Education and Human Performance
- Compliance with testing and certification requirements, including Praxis requirements and other state requirements as applicable
Cost, Aid &
Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
- Apply to West Liberty University
- Declare your Elementary Education (B.A.) major
- Meet with an academic advisor and review your degree pathway
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.