Elementary Education

Gain the skills needed to lead your own classroom from UNC Pembroke. Our Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree program sets you up for teaching success. Learn from expert faculty who are committed to your growth. Small class sizes and personal advising means you’re supported every step of the way. And time in real classrooms gives you the experience needed to launch your career after graduation. Graduates are eligible for an Initial Professional License (IPL) to teach in North Carolina.

Degrees

BSBachelor of Science

School of Education

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Program Requirements

In the BS in Elementary Education program, you’ll build the knowledge and tools to inspire young learners from kindergarten through sixth grade. You’ll combine educational theory with hands-on teaching practice.

Learn how to:

Design and manage engaging, inclusive classrooms
Teach core subjects like math, science, social studies and reading
Use assessment tools to support student growth
Integrate the arts and technology into your teaching

You’ll also complete a semester-long internship where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in real classrooms. When you finish, you’ll be ready to make a lasting difference in your students’ lives.

As part of UNCP’s Educator Preparation Program (EPP), this major follows specific requirements for admission, progression and graduation. Explore the requirements so you know what you need for admission. Once admitted, your advisor will help you stay on track.

Requirements

A classroom with several students seated at tables, working or discussing in groups. A teacher stands and interacts with one group. The walls are decorated with educational posters and colorful bulletin boards.

Hands-On Classroom Experience

In this program, you'll do more than sit behind a desk. You'll get hands-on experience in real K–6 classrooms through fieldwork and a full-time teaching internship. These placements help you practice lesson planning, classroom management and working with students. When you graduate, you’ll be ready to lead your own class with confidence.

Personalized Advising and Support

From the moment you join the program, you’ll be matched with a dedicated advisor. They'll help you build a plan of study and stay on track to meet your goals. Whether you have questions about classes, licensure steps or student teaching, your advisor is your go-to support system. You’re never navigating the program alone.

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This degree-completion option is designed just for working TAs who want to earn a BS in Elementary Education and move into a lead teaching role. With online and weekend course options, you can keep working while preparing for licensure. You'll also get personalized advising and support every step of the way.

student in front of UNCP School of Education

TA to Teacher Pathway

Think you might like to grow your career after graduation? UNC Pembroke offers two strong paths forward in elementary education. With either path, you’ll learn in the supportive environment you already know and trust.

Master of Arts in Teaching

Advance your career and your classroom impact with a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from UNCP. With 14 specializations, including elementary education, you can choose the focus that fits your goals.

Student teacher working with students in an elementary school classroom

Master of Arts in Education

Move forward with the fully online Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Elementary Education degree. This program is designed to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your leadership and expand your impact beyond the classroom.

After UNCP

My advice for a future or current Brave would be to get involved! UNCP has so much to offer and the connections you can make if you take that leap are priceless.

Rhyane Jacobs

UNCP Elementary Education Graduate

Common Careers

Elementary School Teacher (K-6)
Reading or Literacy Specialist
Curriculum Support Specialist
After-School Program Coordinator
Education Consultant

Rhayne Jacobs graduating UNCP

Connect with Career Services

Kelly Barber-Lester

Assistant Professor of Elementary Education

kelly.barber-lester@uncp.edu
910.775.4758

All Faculty & Staff

Birth to Kindergarten

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Special Education

All Programs

UNCP's Educator Preparation Program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and leads to initial licensure in North Carolina.

Information For

Elementary Education

Degrees

Program Requirements