With an elementary education major, you’ll gain the skills to excel as an elementary school teacher and serve future generations of students.
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They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in elementary education, you’ll become a skilled teacher and lifelong learner equipped to adapt to changing trends in education. We highly stress the importance of classrooms being communities of learning where all students are welcome and respected.
A strong base in education and training methods
You’ll be well-versed in curriculum design, teaching methods, the ability to instruct small and large groups in the 21st century, and the means to measure and evaluate your techniques.
Content knowledge
You’ll build a deep knowledge in a wide array of areas you’ll teach, including language arts, math, social studies, science, and health.
Real-world experience
You’ll benefit from hands-on learning in diverse settings. You’ll gain field placement experience in addition to your student teaching assignment and be able to work as an off-campus tutor or participate in a year-long residency.
Innovative teaching methods
You’ll learn to use evolving teaching technology—like SmartBoards, online resources, and other creative teaching tools—and you’ll experience educational best practices in flexible teaching labs.
A base in developmental and educational psychology
You’ll learn to understand the psychological foundations of human development and performance coupled with individual differences in ability, personality, interests, learning styles, and motivation as they all relate to instructing and working with others.
The tools to serve all students
You’ll develop the awareness and sensitivity to serve all students in your classroom, and you’ll forge a stronger understanding of our global culture and how to serve a diverse population of students.
Skills for any career
You’ll develop strong skills in writing, verbal and nonverbal communication, presentation, research, organization, evaluation, creative problem solving, and process improvement—skills that will help you in nearly any job—and graduate school.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Student teaching and classroom experience
From your first day on campus, you’ll have numerous classroom experiences in a range of diverse settings in our partner schools. And you’ll spend a semester student teaching full time in a local classroom. And we have many partnerships with area schools that will help you find the best fit that suits your goals.
Clubs and activities
You can join the Bethel Student Educator’s Association, a student-led academic club that builds community in the education department. You’ll be able to attend club events that bolster your future as an educator and connect you with your fellow education majors.
Networking and connections
You’ll be able to attend events hosted by the education department where you can interact with regional education leaders, build connections, develop your job interviewing skills, and interact directly with potential employers. These include a principal panel each fall and Bethel Advance, a recruiting and interview night held each spring.
Real-world impact
What can I do with an elementary education degree?
With an elementary education degree, you’ll be prepared to teach K-6 students in public, private, charter, and international schools. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in the classroom and beyond.
Teaching
Most of our graduates earn a teaching license and become successful teachers in grades K-6 locally, nationally, and around the world.
Opportunities in education
You’ll also be equipped for a wide variety of education roles. You could be a curriculum coordinator, instructional designer, museum educator, training specialist, public policy coordinator, or analyst.
Graduate school and Ed.D. programs
You’ll be prepared to pursue further certifications, licenses, and graduate programs to better serve students and earn higher wages. You can go on to pursue a principal license, a superintendent license, and other administrative roles.
Skills for any career
You’ll develop strong skills in writing, verbal and nonverbal communication, presentation, research, organization, evaluation, creative problem solving, and process improvement—skills that will help you in nearly any job—and graduate school.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll invest in your success, and you’ll develop strong mentoring relationships that extend past graduation. You’ll learn from professors who are always seeking new methods and content to keep courses fresh and innovative, and our department stresses the importance of classrooms being communities of learning where all students are welcome and respected.
Becky Carlson
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Education and Elementary Education Placement Coordinator
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
College is an investment in your future. That’s why we strive to make your education attainable and provide you with clear and accurate information as you consider your next steps. The net price calculator is a great place to start.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
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