Program Overview
The University of South Carolina's Elementary Education, B.A. program prepares students for careers as exceptional educators for grades two through six. Students gain extensive classroom experience through three internships, fostering a deep understanding of instructional methods and student needs. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, close faculty mentorship, and a strong community of support. Graduates are highly sought-after professionals in educational settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Elementary Education, B.A. program at the University of South Carolina prepares students to become exceptional elementary school educators. The program focuses on developing students' knowledge and skills to meet the individual needs of students in grades two through six. Students gain practical experience through three internships in real, professional settings, allowing them to put theory, methods, and skills into practice. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, close student-faculty relationships, and a supportive community.
Teaching:
The program emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience. Students participate in three internships in K-12 schools in urban, suburban, and rural settings, averaging over 700 hours of classroom experience. The program also features courses with components that take place in local schools, providing students with firsthand exposure to instructional methods in action.
Careers:
The program prepares students for careers as teachers in elementary schools. Potential job titles include:
- Teacher
- Elementary School Teacher
- Kindergarten Teacher
- Second Grade Teacher
- First Grade Teacher
- Substitute Teacher Common workplace settings for graduates include:
- Education
- Health Care
- Museums
- Community Centers
- Government Employers of alumni include:
- Richland School District Two
- Lexington County School District One
- Charleston County School District
- Lexington-Richland School District Five
- Fort Mill School District
- Greenville County Schools
Other:
The program is part of the College of Education and is one of the largest and most active Professional Development Schools Networks in the nation. Students benefit from smaller class sizes in major-specific courses, allowing for close student-faculty relationships. The program also offers an online option for degree completion through Palmetto College.
