Program Overview

Elementary Education: Middle School Education

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a highly regarded program in Elementary Education with a focus on Middle School Education. This program is designed for students who wish to teach students aged 10-14 and explores the unique challenges and rewards of middle school education.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Middle School Education is a personalized program that combines the child-centered philosophy of elementary certification with a content specialization more typical of secondary certification. Middle school majors earn certification in one or more content areas for grades 5-9, including math, science, communication arts, or social studies.

Program Details

• The program is a Major, BSEd.
• The format is On-Campus.
• Students gain skills and insights that can be applied as innovative educators, managers, and directors, program planners, and curriculum developers.
• Students have the opportunity to earn specific credentials, as needed, and to pursue academic minors related to their individual career goals.

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Improve and enhance student learning.
• Integrate technology to create meaningful student learning within the context of a global digital society.
• Apply content and pedagogical knowledge to create authentic and deep learning experiences.
• Use learning science principles to design, implement, and evaluate curriculum based on learning standards.
• Design and establish a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment that nurtures the intellectual, social, and personal development of all students.
• Use equitable frameworks and inclusive practices to create a variety of instructional and assessment opportunities adapted to diverse learners to encourage all students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and performance skills.

Employment Prospects

Employment of middle school teachers is projected to grow up to 4% by 2029, with a median annual salary of $61,320, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Opportunities

• Classroom Teacher, Middle School
• Classroom Teacher, Junior High School

Degree Information

• All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.

Plan of Study

Review the full degree requirements for detailed information on the program's curriculum and structure.

Student Organizations and Internship Opportunities

The College of Education hosts many centers and initiatives that enhance student experiences in their programs and work with more than 36 different public, private, and charter schools throughout the region. Students can also participate in recognized student organizations such as EduCATE, Kappa Delta Pi, Mu Iota Chapter, Student Government Association, and Students of the University of Missouri.

Honors College and Undergraduate Research

The UMSL Honors College is a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. The college also encourages and supports students in engaging in exciting activities in and outside of the classroom that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study through Undergraduate Research and Scholarship.

Related Majors

Explore more degree options, including:

• Elementary Education: Special Education
• Secondary Education: Social Studies
• Secondary Education: Biology
• Educational Studies: Youth & Adult Development

About the College of Education

The UMSL College of Education transforms lives by shaping the educational landscape in the St. Louis region, advancing educator quality and professional development in Missouri, and being recognized nationally as a leader of vital research and as a hub of innovation. Whether you're a first-time college student, a career-changer, or a seasoned educator seeking additional professional learning and qualifications, the College of Education has much to offer. Join a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment that will help you explore and grow for a meaningful career in education.