Program Overview

Elementary Education

Overview

The Elementary Teacher Education program at Illinois State will prepare you for a professional educator's license to teach grades 1-6. Throughout the coursework, teacher candidates will gain the professional knowledge and skills needed to become a highly effective educator, as well as approximately 300 hours of hands-on classroom experience prior to student teaching.

Point of Pride

The School of Teaching and Learning is one of the largest preparers of elementary education teachers in the nation. More than 60 percent of students complete the yearlong, classroom-based Professional Development School (PDS) mentored internship program, offered in locations around the state.

Why study Elementary Education?

Elementary teachers serve as the cornerstone of a child’s educational journey through the development of their skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, critical thinking, and problem solving. Furthermore, during these important years in a child’s life, elementary teachers guide students through social-emotional learning and real-world exploration.