Education (BA)
Pursue a degree in Elementary or Special Education.
At Mary Baldwin, we offer the best fully accredited teaching program around. Teacher education has been a strength of ours for a long time, and it’s our single most popular academic program. At Mary Baldwin, we offer two undergraduate programs to prepare you for teaching licensure: the Elementary Education BA and Special Education BA.
The Education major is available and open to MBU’s residential students, but many of the major’s classes will be offered in an online format.
Interested in teaching a particular subject? Learn about our Education Minors.
- Time to Completion4 years
- FormatOnline, Hybrid
- Degree(s)Bachelor of Arts
- NeighborhoodEducation & Society
Next steps
Why study Education at Mary Baldwin?
Mary Baldwin has been educating teachers for over 177 years! Our education programs are well-recognized in the Commonwealth of Virginia and nationwide. Benefits include:
- Hands-on lab work, research, and changemaker internships to enhance your expertise in your chosen concentration
- Personalized attention from one-on-one interactions with professors and small classes
- Excellent employment outcomes where it counts: 92% of teacher program graduates are in one of Virginia’s critical teacher shortage areas
View our Teacher Education accreditation report.
Two Bachelor’s Programs
We offer two undergraduate bachelor’s programs: Elementary Education and Special Education. By the end of their degree program, students are fully prepared to complete the required assessments for licensure and embark on their new careers.
Learn more about these programs using the links below:
Students in these programs don’t need to be Virginia residents to seek licensure—they can complete practicums in any accredited school. However, all activities, competencies, and Standards of Learning that are addressed in each experience must apply to Commonwealth of Virginia guidelines.
Learn More About Virginia Practicum and Student Teaching Guidelines
Next steps
Accelerated Pathways
Mary Baldwin offers a dual-degree Accelerated Pathway program for this major. Earn your bachelor’s and an advanced degree faster. This is a great way to jump-start your dream career and save money in the process!
Teacher Education Program
Students declaring a major in Elementary Education, Special Education, or certain Education minors must apply to MBU’s Teacher Education Program (TEP) if they are seeking licensure. Upon completion of their degree program and TEP requirements, students will be prepared to obtain a teaching license by Commonwealth of Virginia standards.
A profession and a passion
The Commonwealth of Virginia needs you! Teaching allows you to make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities as you guide and support students through their educational journeys. It’s a profession that offers meaningful connections, personal growth, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re having a real, positive impact on society.
Next steps
Explore the Neighborhood
This major is part of the Education & Society Neighborhood. Neighbors live together their first year, study and take classes together, and enjoy special curated activities.
Our Faculty
Our program’s faculty is made up of passionate educators eager to share their insights and expertise. With their one-on-one support, you’ll graduate ready to tackle any challenges you face with confidence and competence.
Cost & Financial Aid
We work hard to make an MBU education one of the most affordable in the country. 95% percent of MBU students receive scholarship awards or financial aid. And MBU helps you get your degree faster by maximizing transfer credits and translating relevant work and life experiences into course credits. A great education is worth it. Let us help you bring your aspirations to life.