Shape Young Minds

Elementary Education Major

Train to teach and inspire elementary school students.

Licensure

Graduate eligible for teacher licensure in pre-K through sixth grade

Networking & Mentorship

Connect with industry professionals and alumni for career guidance and opportunities.

Endorsement

Option to add on a K-6 special education general curriculum endorsement

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

An elementary education degree from the University of Lynchburg opens the door to a fulfilling career teaching young learners. Our program combines courses on teaching methods and core subject matter with hands-on student teaching, so our candidates are ready to work in various classroom settings.

Between applying skills in a live classroom setting and mentorship from seasoned educators, Lynchburg’s program will give candidates the confidence to become a teacher who makes a positive impact in the classroom.

Our graduates will be eligible for teacher licensure in pre-K through sixth grade, with the option to add on a K-6 special education general curriculum endorsement. With a license in elementary education and an add-on license in special education, candidates can expand their job prospects as an instructors in inclusive education settings.

Curriculum and Resources

2024-25 Academic Year Information

Program requirements for the following can be found in the undergraduate catalog.

Elementary Education (BS)

Academic Resources

Additional Resources

The University of Lynchburg's School of Professional and Applied Sciences, Leadership Studies, and Counseling has obtained full accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. This accreditation signifies that the college meets the comprehensive standards for educator preparation. The accreditation process evaluates several aspects of an educational institution, including the effectiveness of its teaching programs, the preparation of its students for careers in education, and the institution's commitment to continuous improvement and current educational practices. As a CAEP-accredited institution, the college has demonstrated its ability to prepare its students for teaching roles in pre-K to 12th-grade education. This achievement reflects the college's ongoing commitment to maintaining high educational standards and adapting to the evolving requirements of teacher education. This accreditation is an important milestone for the School of Professional and Applied Sciences, Leadership Studies, and Counseling, and it ensures that the college continues to provide quality education to its students.

CAEP Accountability Measures

Title II Report Cards

Licensure and Certification

Per federal regulations from the U.S. Department of Education and CAEP, we must disclose whether our educational programs are eligible for state credentialing such as certification or licensure. The University of Lynchburg has been approved by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Education to offer 11 initial licensure programs at the undergraduate level. If you gain licensure in Virginia, it can lead to reciprocal licensure in other states and jurisdictions. The teacher education program at the University of Lynchburg can assist you in obtaining the following types of licenses:

Elementary Education (PreK – 6th grade): Elementary Education (BS)
Secondary Education (6th – 12th grades): English Education (BA), History and Social Studies Education (BA), Mathematics Education (BS), Biology Education (BS), Chemistry Education (BA), Earth Science Education (BA)
Designated Discipline Education (PreK–12th grade): Health and Physical Education (BS)

Reciprocal Licensure and Other State Requirements

Educators who are licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia are eligible for reciprocal licensure in more than 45 states across the U.S. However, it is important to note that some states may require additional temporary, testing, or other requirements that educators must meet before teaching in that jurisdiction. To determine the necessary steps for teaching outside of Virginia, refer to the state reciprocity information or contact the Department of Education in each state.

As a Lynchburg elementary education student, you'll:

Engage in rigorous interdisciplinary coursework across the arts, sciences, social studies, language arts, and more.

Get hands-on experience in diverse settings, including a semester of full-time student teaching.

Join student-led Professional Learning Communities for collaborative learning and further professional development.

Graduate fully ready to start your career with teacher licensure that’s recognized through most of the U.S.

Learn on-the-job lessons from mentorships with trained educators working in local school divisions.

"Lynchburg provided me with so many opportunities to get out in the community and interact with local students and to take part in diverse situations on subjects, grade levels, and students with various needs."

- victoria Mason '20