Elementary Education (BA)
Make a real difference in your community.
Elementary education is in one of the top ten critical shortage areas in Virginia. Schools desperately need K-6 teachers. That’s where you come in. You’re looking to pursue a career with a clear purpose and path – where you can make a difference in the lives of children and have a positive impact on your community. At Mary Baldwin, we’ll equip you with the skills and experience you need to excel as a teacher – with confidence.
This major is available and open to MBU’s residential students, but many of the major’s classes will be offered in an online format.
- Time to Completion4 years
- FormatOnline, Hybrid
- Degree(s)Bachelor of Arts
- NeighborhoodEducation & Society
Next steps
Why study Elementary Education at Mary Baldwin?
View our Teacher Education accreditation report.
Our bachelor’s in Elementary Education combines the flexibility of online coursework with hands-on, classroom experience. First, you’ll work with our faculty to learn inquiry-based practices and student-centered techniques. You’ll have the opportunity to deep dive into specific subject areas like classroom management, exceptionalities, and lesson planning.
In practicums, you’ll have the opportunity to practice what you’ve learned with fellow students and faculty and build confidence in your abilities. Later, as a K-6 student teacher, you’ll gain real classroom experience with the support and guidance of a cooperating teacher. It’s in the classroom where you truly learn what it means to be an educator.
By the end of our program, you’ll be fully prepared to complete the required assessments for licensure and embark on your new career.
Students in this program 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 this major 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.
As a school of inquiry we honor the individual – how they learn, their unique perspective, what they bring to a lesson, and their process for accomplishing a set goal.
Pam BaileyAssociate Dean and Director, School of Education
Student-centered teaching
Our student-centered teaching philosophy, collaborative techniques, and focus on inquiry-based practices will set you on the path to success. In your coursework, you’ll learn the very latest thinking and pedagogical approaches in the field. After four years, you’ll graduate with a firm grasp of the skills and techniques needed to reach every child in your classroom.
Sample courses
- Characteristics of Exceptionality
- Practicum in General Education
- Language Acquisition & Literacy Development
- Assessment Of and For Learning
- Classroom and Behavior Management
- Instructional Strategies
120 credit hours are required for a bachelor’s degree.
Special Education Add-On
Students enrolled in our Elementary Education BA program can earn Special Education General Curriculum endorsement (grades K-6) by completing additional coursework. Speak to an advisor to learn more!
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.
A profession and a passion
The state 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 journey. 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
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.
