Dream of making a difference in the classroom? For over 100 years, Northern State University has been shaping passionate, skilled educators ready to inspire the next generation. Our Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)-accredited teacher preparation programs provide you with high-quality education and training that meets national standards. If you're ready to become a teacher, there's no better place—at Northern, we ARE teacher education!
Our elementary education program at Northern State University is designed to prepare you to become an inspiring, effective teacher. With a focus on innovative teaching methods and classroom management techniques, we give you the tools to create engaging lessons that reach every type of learner. Through a combination of expert-led coursework and real-world experiences, you’ll gain the skills needed to make a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond.
Offered On Campus
120 Credit Hours
Estimated Time to Complete: Four Years
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 NSU’s teacher preparation program, you’ll jump into real classroom experiences from your first year, turning your learning into action right away. NSU's Office of Field Experiences will set up your practicum and teaching placements within the Aberdeen community and surrounding region, where you’ll be mentored by an experienced classroom teacher every step of the way. Plus, with personalized academic advising and career planning from our Office of Career Services, you'll be fully prepared to take the next steps in your journey as an educator.
EDUCATION INTERNSHIPS CAREER SERVICES
Scholarships for Elementary Education Majors
At Northern State University, we’re committed to making your education affordable. All incoming, full-time elementary education majors automatically receive the Millicent Atkins 1901 Scholarship—awarding $1,901 per year for up to four years, celebrating Northern's founding in 1901. This generous scholarship, made possible by alum and teacher Millicent Atkins, is stackable with Northern’s WolfPACT Unleashed, the most comprehensive guaranteed scholarship in the region. Plus, you may also qualify for the TEACH Grant and additional School of Education scholarships, providing even more support as you prepare for your teaching career.
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."
Get Involved on Campus
Build skills outside the classroom and get involved with the Aberdeen community with clubs and organizations.
