Elementary Education - BA

During your time in the program, you will complete a variety of courses, as well as a practicum and student teaching experience. To qualify for graduation, you will need to complete 123 credit hours, including core courses such as:

• Human Development
• Foundations of Education
• Methods and Materials of Teaching
• Practicums and Student Teaching

and elective courses, such as:

• Technology for Teachers
• Child Health and Nutrition
• Developing and Implementing IEP
• Corrective and Remedial Reading

Interested in joining one of our student organizations or activities? We encourage you to pursue campus- and department-sponsored service learning and community-based research opportunities with community organizations, nonprofits, schools, and other groups in the local area. Explore our available options and find the right fit for you!

• Education Club: In this student-led club, you can help volunteer, tutor, and host fundraisers for children throughout the D.C. area.
• Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI): As a part of the ACEI, you help to promote and support the optimal education, development and well-being of children and youth around the world!

During your time in the elementary education program at UDC, you will learn to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy
• Communicate effectively
• Utilize effective classroom and behavior management techniques
• Design, implement and assess developmentally appropriate teaching/learning activities
• Understand and demonstrate respect for individual needs and diversity
• Integrate instructional and assistive technology to enhance learning for all students
• Commit to continuous growth through reflection and professional development
• Advocate change to improve education for your students, school system and yourself; display leadership qualities
• Effectively collaborate with students, parents, colleagues, schools and communities

After completing the Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, a bright future in education is just around the corner. Further pursue your education or explore professional opportunities, such as:

• Elementary School Teacher: Past graduates have often pursued roles as elementary school teachers in urban school districts. After completing the program, they were equipped with the tools necessary to manage diverse classrooms and implement effective teaching strategies tailored to urban environments.
• Special Education Teacher: Some graduates specialized in special education and went on to pursue careers as special education teachers within elementary schools, addressing the unique needs of students with disabilities in urban settings. 
• Educational Specialist: Other graduates pursued roles as educational specialists, providing support and expertise in curriculum development, instructional strategies and student assessment within urban school districts or educational organizations.
• Curriculum Developer: Some graduates explored opportunities as curriculum developers, designing and implementing standards-based curriculum tailored to urban education settings. They continue to play a crucial role in shaping educational programs to meet the diverse needs of students in urban communities. 
• Graduate Studies: Other graduates chose to continue pursuing their education through advanced degrees in education or related fields, such as educational leadership, curriculum and instruction or urban education.