Northern State University has been successfully preparing educators for over a century. At the core of our Elementary Education major is a robust curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects essential for effective elementary educators.
From mathematics and science to language arts and social studies, we ensure that our students develop a deep understanding of the content they will be teaching. We believe in equipping future educators with the most effective teaching methodologies. Our program emphasizes innovative pedagogical approaches, teaching strategies, and classroom management techniques. Through coursework and practical experiences, our students learn how to create engaging lessons that cater to the needs of diverse learners.
Offered On Campus
120 Credit Hours
Estimated Time to Complete: Four Years
Prepare to lead the Next Generation of Learners
As an elementary education major, you'll receive hands-on instruction from dedicated, accessible faculty as well as extensive in-classroom experience at local elementary schools. The program's curriculum will prepare you to take and pass the PRAXIS Core Academic Skills for Educations (CORE) exam so you'll graduate as a certified K-8 educator.
Through intentional and immersive experiential learning opportunities, our students utilize real-world experience to become competent educators. Our program integrates hands-on learning opportunities in K-12 classrooms from the very beginning. From observation in classrooms to student teaching placements, our students gain invaluable experience working with children in varied educational settings.”Through intentional and immersive experiential learning opportunities, our students utilize real-world experience to become competent educators. Our program integrates hands-on learning opportunities in K-12 classrooms from the very beginning. From observation in classrooms to student teaching placements, our students gain invaluable experience working with children in varied educational settings.
Plan of Study
See what your next four years at Northern State University would look like as an elementary education major.
Sample Coursework
Introduction to Education
Introduction to Persons with Exceptionalities
Educational Psychology
Child and Adolescent Development
Classroom Technology
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
School Law and Ethics
Related Minors
Coaching
E-learning
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Reading
English as a New Language
Mathematics in Elementary Education
Music for Elementary Education
Special Education
Similar Programs
Early Childhood Education
Elementary/Special Education
Special Education
Physical Education
Biology Education
Chemistry Education
English Education
Math Education
Field Experiences
In-classroom teaching experiences are built into your curriculum starting from year one, preparing you to transition from learning to doing.
NSU's Office of Field Services will coordinate your practicums and teaching experiences with placements in the Aberdeen community. Your teaching experience will be overseen by a highly qualified classroom teacher who will be there to guide and support you.
You'll also have access to academic advising and career planning through the Office of Career Services, readying you for your next steps in your career as an educator.
EDUCATION INTERNSHIPS CAREER SERVICES
Scholarships for Education Majors
Northern State University Offers several scholarship options to make your tuition affordable. The Atkins Elementary Education Scholarship, founded by former alum and teacher Millicent Atkins, is available to all incoming, full-time students. All education students automatically qualify for the Atkins Scholarship.
Additional School of Education and NSU scholarships, such as the WolfPACT Unleashed Scholarship, are available to incoming freshmen and returning students.
Alumni Spotlight
Kylie Werner, 3rd Grade Teacher
"Northern's School of Education professionally prepared me to enter the field of Education. The various field experiences gave me opportunities to explore many different fields of education. I was able to see every elementary grade level during my four years at Northern. Not only did they give me professional opportunities, but the classes allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of theories, methods, and strategies to use within my classroom.
Northern's faculty create a positive learning environment that allows their teaching candidates to try new activities prior to implementing them in the classroom. After my four years at Northern, I felt prepared to enter the educational field and felt supported by the relationships I was able to build with my peers and professors."
Ready to Apply?
Get Involved on Campus
Build skills outside the classroom and get involved with the Aberdeen community with Education-focused clubs and organizations. Help Aberdeen students (grades 1-12) improve their reading and writing skills through NSU's Reading Clinic. You'll be making a positive impact on their education while also developing your expertise as an educator.
Student Involvement and Leadership >
- Campus Clubs and Organizations
Association for the Education of Young Children (AEYC)
The NSU Association for the Education of Young Children (AEYC) chapter serves to promote interest in early childhood education, provides educational activities and programs for the community and provides continuing educational opportunities for preservice teachers. AEYC is open to all Northern Students.
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
The NSU Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) works to improve the educational success of children and youth with disabilities and/or gifts and talents through educational events on campus and in the community. CEC is open to all students with an interest in special education. Dues are collected annually for members who are interested in joining the national CEC group.
South Dakota Education Association - Student Program (SDEA-SP)
The SDEA/NEA Student Program will address the needs of today's diverse student population and facilitate student achievement by sharing ideal professional ethics and standards with preprofessional educators. SDEA-SP is open to all students. To learn more, visit sdea.org.
- Student Leadership
From supporting student organizations to creating opportunities for connection, Student Involvement and Leadership (SIL) offers you a community of beloning - you're encouraged to find your place at Northern.
