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Elementary Teaching

Embark on a dynamic educational journey with SESP's  interdisciplinary Elementary Teaching concentration, through which you will:

  • Immerse yourself in subject-area courses spanning Physical, Life and Earth Sciences, Civics and Government, Economics, Geography, Literature and Fine Arts, History, and Mathematics/Statistics, in addition to pedagogical courses like Elementary methods
  • Complete a linked practicum and student teaching clinical experience
  • Be eligible for the Illinois Professional Educator license upon completion of all degree and licensure requirements
  • Earn a Bachelor of Science in Education and Social Policy

Curriculum— 42 units 

  • Foundational disciplines—10 units 
  • SESP core— 8 units 
  • Foundations Courses – 6 units 
  • Concentration Cluster Courses – 10 units 
  • Electives— 8 units 

For a full description of coursework and requirements to complete the Bachelor of Science in Education and Social Policy Degree with a concentration in Elementary Teaching, please visit the Undergraduate Academic Catalog with attention to the About and Programs tabs.

Teacher Licensure

Students who wish to be licensed as teachers must apply to the SESP Teacher Education Program. SESP teaching concentrations within the program are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. Com­pletion of the courses alone does not result in licensure, nor is licensure required to complete the SESP degree.The SESP teaching concentrations advisor will advise on the process and timing of application.

See Application Requirements

After SESP

Graduates at the elementary level are prepared to become self-contained general education classroom teachers in grades 1-6.