Program Overview

Elementary Education Program

The Elementary Education program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is designed to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and real-world technical training necessary to excel as teachers in elementary classrooms.

Program Overview

The power of education opens the minds of young students beginning in elementary school. The energy, excitement, and thirst for knowledge are fostered in children with the help of teachers who are passionate about bringing discovery to children. If your calling is to provide the next generation with a solid foundation in mathematics, science, writing, reading, and literature, our nationally accredited program is the best place for you to begin your journey.

Bachelor's Program

With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from SIU, you will be equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and real-world technical training necessary to excel as a teacher in elementary classrooms. Graduates of this program are exceptionally qualified to teach a variety of classroom settings in grades one through six.

Teacher Education Program (TEP) and State Licensure

As part of our elementary education curriculum, the Teacher Education Program (TEP) provides guidance to each student admitted into the major. This extraordinary program lays out the student teaching and testing guidelines necessary to gain a State of Illinois Professional Educator's License (PEL). Clinical supervisors and cooperative teachers ensure your success as a student and future elementary educator. The TEP is designed to provide students with hands-on training and authentic experiences that pave the way to a rewarding and successful career in elementary education. Supportive faculty members guide each elementary education student through the curriculum and training requirements, from the first semester at SIU until gaining licensure to begin teaching. Your success is our highest priority, and by taking what you learn in the classroom and applying it to hands-on training, you will gain an authentic experience that prepares you for a career in elementary education. The program focuses on providing students with a solid foundation in mathematics, science, writing, reading, and literature, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to teach a variety of classroom settings in grades one through six. The TEP also provides students with the opportunity to work with experienced teachers and gain practical experience in the classroom.

Accreditation

The School of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). As part of the rigorous CAEP accreditation process, our Elementary Education program also received "national recognition" status by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI). Elementary education at SIU is also a fully approved program by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

Program Details

• The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in elementary education.
• The program includes coursework in mathematics, science, writing, reading, and literature, as well as education courses and hands-on training.
• The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and has received "national recognition" status by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI).
• The program is fully approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
• Graduates of the program are qualified to teach in a variety of classroom settings in grades one through six.
• The program provides students with supportive faculty members who guide them through the curriculum and training requirements.
• The program focuses on providing students with hands-on training and authentic experiences that prepare them for a career in elementary education.