Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

Overview

The Elementary Education program at Arizona Christian University trains you in the art and science of teaching children. Three key attributes of the program prepare you for a successful career in education. First, the program emphasizes the integration of education principles across the teaching profession. You will learn that teaching is not compartmentalized but it is a rich combination of research-based theories and hands-on practical experience. Second, the program emphasizes practicality. Through the lens of extensive experience, ACU faculty provide you with timely and valuable glimpses into today’s classrooms. The final and most valuable attribute is the emphasis on mentoring. Because of the intentional small class sizes at ACU, you will be able to develop strong mentoring relationships with your instructors. This mentoring begins in the classroom, continues through student teaching, and beyond graduation.

Why Elementary Education at ACU?

In addition to a faculty to student ratio of 17:1 and a rigorous, biblically-integrated curriculum, ACU’s Elementary Education program offers several unique advantages:

• ACU’s education graduates are in great demand locally and abroad.
• ACU is one of 24 universities in the United States and the only one in Arizona that is certified by ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).
• ACU’s Elementary Education program is approved by the Arizona Department of Education.
• Faculty in the department have an average of 20 years of experience in the field, meaning you are taught by leaders in education who have extensive classroom experience.
• Small class sizes create a safe, comfortable setting to practice your teaching and hone your skills.
• God’s Word and His Truths are foundational in all coursework at ACU.
• All graduates in the certified program also graduate with full ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) certification, which provides opportunities to teach internationally.

Beginning your first year, our phenomenal faculty and staff commit to do our part while you do yours, providing you with personalized, on-on-one support, and benefits unique to ACU. Click HERE for a detailed layout of your expectations and benefits as an education major. Just think of it as All As- ACU benefits, ADE approved, and ACSI certified.

What will I study?

The Elementary Education program provides a biblical liberal arts foundation with an innovative approach to general studies. CORE courses reclaim a Christian conception of the Liberal Arts, preparing students to be influential thinkers. Career-related focus areas will include:

• Educational psychology
• Curriculum and instruction methods for grades kindergarten through grade 8
• Human development
• Research based methods teaching Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science, and, Social Studies
• Special education methods grades kindergarten through grade 8
• Children’s literature
• Classroom management
• Methods for teaching English language learners
• Concentration in Early Childhood Option: Specialize in early childhood education.

Career Paths

Graduates who meet the requirements of the Elementary Education program are prepared to

• Teach grades kindergarten through 8th grade at a charter, private, or public school.
• Teach in Christian schools in the United States and all over the world because of their ACSI Certification.
• Obtain master’s degrees in leadership, curriculum and instruction, administration, special education, or in their content area.
• Work with children in various church, parachurch, and nonprofit organizations