Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Elementary Education Grades 1-5

Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, McNeese's elementary education degree program features diverse hands-on learning opportunities and experiences, as well as initial teacher certification.

Program Highlights

Elementary Education Grades 1-5 Degree Program Highlights

The McNeese Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education grades 1-5 is designed to develop graduates fully prepared to become effective Day 1 professional educators who have a positive impact on PK-12 student growth.

The fully redesigned program was created in partnerships with two national education consulting firms and backwards designed to include the scaffolding and progression of content knowledge, a variety of classroom teaching experiences, and coaching and support from faculty in each semeseter of the program. Field experiences begin in semester 1, courses include evaluation and teaching of high quality curriculum, Praxis supports are threaded within coursework, and special education coursework is embedded within the program.

Within the 120 hour program, senior year consists of two-semester Resdiency course with which you will be assigned a certified Mentor Teacher while also being supported by a university-assigned trainded Site Coordinator. Weekly seminars based on your observational data are used to hone and grow your teaching skills to help you become proficient by graduation.

Low cost, high demand degree

Consistently ranked as one of the top regional universities in the South, McNeese also boasts one of the lowest tuition rates in the state. Local, state and national demand for teachers remains high and, with initial teacher certification, elementary education majors from McNeese graduate with a valuable degree and are ready to succeed in this in-demand market.

At a Glance

Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Program Length: 4 years (120 credit hours)

Availability: in person, online

Elementary Education Grades 1-5 is offered 100% Online.
Program overview

Explore More for Education Majors

Featuring faculty advising, small class sizes and an emphasis on experiential learning, the bachelor’s degree in elementary education Grades 1-5 at McNeese offers students the experience and training needed to succeed in the classroom before and after graduation.

Service Learning:

The Burton College of Education Boots on the Ground T.E.A.M. (Together Every Action Matters) chooses to invest in the communities in which we serve. The voluntary opportunity to participate and/or lead initiatives is given to students within the Burton College of Education (BCOE) and across McNeese State University’s (MSU) campus that want to have a positive impact on others. Opportunities include partnerships within the college of upperclassmen with underclassmen, mentoring in PK-12 schools, tutoring at Big Brothers Big Sisters, volunteering at local awareness walks and in PK-12 schools.

In-depth Instruction:

With a state approved Tier 1 curriculum, instruction includes promoting student engagement using theory and motivation along with procedures and transitions that goes beyond traditional classroom management courses. Curriculum also includes topics like student misconceptions, alignment of standards, outcomes, instruction and assessment and progression of learning.

Residency Experience:

All elementary education majors receive hands-on training in their field with a two- semester teacher residency. During this residency, students are paired with experienced teachers who assist in classroom management and teaching. Students also have support from their university supervisors who evaluate and give feedback with a pre- and post-conference model, as well as help from an additional faculty member who guides student research into best-practices for their own student populations.

Excellence With a Personal Touch:

McNeese’s award-winning education faculty in the Burton College of Education stay up-to-date in their disciplines through continuing research, publications and attendance and presentations at multiple national, state and local conferences. With small class sizes and faculty advising, students get one-on-one instruction in education methods, practices, observation, evaluation and personalized support. After completing the program, faculty continue to support alumni as they venture out into the professional setting, providing alumni with a support system that follows them throughout their career.

Take the Next Step!

Careers and Opportunities

What Can You Do with an Elementary Education Grades 1-5 Degree?

Graduates of this program are eligible for a Louisiana Level 1 teaching license which allows for immediate work in public, private, or charter elementary schools. Other options are to also continue your education to earn a higher degree like the fully online Master of Education in Curriculum and Planning, which would qualify you for a higher salary and the opportunity to move into an administration position within a school setting.

Graduate Schools or Programs

 

Networking Opportunities

Students in the Department of Education Professions have the opportunity to participate in a number of professional events including the annual Unlock Education Regional Conference, collaboration events led by the Educators Rising Collegiate group, and retention activities led by the Energizing Education Team.

Advanced Facilities

The Burton College of Education is housed within the Burton Business Center and features a variety of technologies within each classroom including Smartboards and eGlass. The MPWR Technology Labortory houses additional technology used for teaching and learning including robotics, ozobots, and more.

Student Organizations

McNeese offers over 100 student organizations. Educators Rising Collegiate is the education-specific organization. Monthly meetings, professional development, and community impact are a focus of the group.

Elementary Education Grades 1-5

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Program Contact

Dr. Deborah King, Department Head - Education Professions
teachforimpact@mcneese.edu