Elementary education
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design
Shape the future of our youth
Elementary educators set the stage for lifelong learning. This important responsibility demands an understanding of modern teaching methods and child development, as well as a broad knowledge in multiple subjects, from reading and writing to science and math.
In this program, you will learn to teach basic subject areas to diverse groups of children in kindergarten through eighth grade. You will gain on-the job skills with three practicum experiences in an elementary classroom and one semester of student teaching under the supervision of experienced teachers.
Teacher certification, a requirement for teaching in a public school, varies from state to state. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to take certification exams for the state in which you want to teach.
Overview
Related Topics
Prepare to teach, lead and inspire the next generation
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy working with youth.
- Are interested in studying and teaching in a specific subject area.
- Are a patient, positive, creative, energetic person.
- Have strong communication and leadership skills.
- Are willing to work hard to overcome challenges.
Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education will complete 120 required credits toward the degree in addition to U-Idaho core requirements.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,242 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Elementary School Teachers
$53,111 - Education Administrators for Elementary and Secondary Schools
$84,410 - Kindergarten Special Education Teachers
$54,927
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
You will have many opportunities to gain valuable firsthand experience working with children in a variety of settings. Admission to the teacher education program requires 20 hours of service-learning, a year of practicum teaching and a semester of student teaching for graduation and certification.
All students must complete a student teaching internship before completing their degree.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.