Program Overview

Candidates who wish to teach children in classrooms that are largely self-contained (Grades 1st-6th) should major in elementary education. This area of specialization combines the required general and professional coursework with exposure to a variety of educational settings, different professionals in the field, and a wide range of children at the elementary school level. Candidates engage in field experiences that include observations, site-visits, tutoring opportunities two practica, and a full-time student teaching experience. These field experiences are structured so that candidates have opportunities to apply what they learn in class to real teaching situations.  

Using Catholic University's conceptual framework, this concentration emphasizes the development of a reflective stance towards teaching in elementary settings. The ability to reflect independently on teaching practice and educational contexts is essential at this level. Elementary school teachers are constantly engaged in student interactions, problem solving, and decision making. Catholic University's goal is to prepare dynamic, creative, and stimulating individuals who can overcome the institutional and occupational constraints that elementary school teachers face and who are willing and able to collaborate with other professionals in order to satisfy the educational needs of every student under their care.

Concentration in elementary education offers a combination of a strong liberal arts education, research and field-based professional preparation, an emphasis on computer literacy and technological awareness, and a commitment to serving children with special needs in multi-cultural classrooms.

Elementary candidates' program of studies includes Catholic University's general education requirements, professional education courses required by the certifying authorities in most states, and a teaching specialization. This program generally takes candidates eight semesters to complete. Recommended courses for elementary candidates' distribution requirements are included under the tab entitled Program of Studies.

Elementary candidates have the opportunity to take the two additional courses early childhood education majors take if they are interested in obtaining an early childhood education license in D.C. also as long as they plan out their four-year plan with their advisor.