Overview
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Why Study Elementary Education at PBA?
Become a highly competent teacher with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from PBA. Through coursework, fieldwork, and student teaching experiences, you’ll develop the instructional skills needed to teach mathematics, science, social studies, literacy, and English language learners in diverse classroom settings.
- Christ-Focused Teaching: Beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to the classroom, you’ll learn to celebrate each of your students with the love of Christ by teaching in local Christian and public schools.
- Hands-On Learning: Practice your pedagogy in five fieldwork practicum placements and two full-time teaching residencies.
- Certifications and Endorsements: Earn your Florida teaching certificate in Elementary K-6, plus your Reading and ESOL endorsements.
- Teach Abroad: Seize global opportunities in an international classroom where you can teach through the lens of your faith. Learn more about PBA’s study abroad program.
What You'll Learn
PBA’s Elementary Education program prepares students to:
- Apply learning theories and human development concepts to classroom instruction
- Create safe, organized, and student-centered learning environments
- Deliver effective instruction across multiple subject areas
- Support diverse learners through differentiated teaching strategies
- Integrate literacy, ESOL, and reading instruction into classroom practice
Program Details
Build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become an effective elementary educator. Through extensive classroom experiences, professional preparation, and faculty mentorship, you’ll develop as a teacher who can positively impact future generations.
Classroom Management, School Law & Ethics
Develop the skills needed to create positive learning environments while understanding professional responsibilities, educational law, and ethical decision-making in the classroom.
Literacy Assessment and Instruction for Diverse Learners
Learn how to assess reading abilities and implement effective literacy strategies that support students with diverse learning needs and backgrounds.
ESOL Methods, Curriculum & Assessment
Build expertise in teaching English language learners through evidence-based instructional methods, curriculum design, and assessment practices.
Exceptional Student Education
Prepare to support students with diverse learning needs through specialized instruction, assessment, intervention strategies, and inclusive educational practices.
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Early Childhood Education
Focus on the unique developmental and educational needs of young learners while building the skills necessary to create engaging and effective early childhood learning environments.
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Children’s Ministry
Combine educational foundations with ministry preparation while learning how to support the spiritual, emotional, and developmental needs of children in church and community settings.
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Play Therapy
Explore the therapeutic use of play as a tool for supporting children’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental growth in educational and counseling settings.
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Elementary Education students gain experience in local schools, classroom environments, and teaching settings throughout South Florida while preparing for professional certification and classroom leadership.
Learn from dedicated faculty members who bring a combination of academic expertise, professional experience, and a commitment to student success. Through mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities, and personalized guidance, PBA professors help students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to achieve their academic and career goals.
Students complete more than 96 hours of fieldwork and two semesters of full-time teaching residencies. These classroom experiences provide opportunities to apply educational theory, develop instructional skills, and gain confidence working with diverse learners.
Students also have opportunities to teach in both public and private schools, as well as participate in international teaching experiences.
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Official high school transcripts
- Additional admissions materials as required
Students pursuing Elementary Education may also be eligible for the Bebe Warren Scholars Program, which offers scholarships to qualified incoming freshmen and transfer students pursuing Elementary Education.
Visit the Office of Admissions website for current application, scholarship, and financial aid deadlines.
Career Outcomes
Elementary Education graduates are prepared to make a lasting impact in classrooms, schools, and communities. Teachers continue to be in high demand, and kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn an average salary of more than $61,000 annually.
Graduates of PBA’s Florida state-approved teacher preparation program are eligible to pursue Florida teacher certification. Certification requires successful completion of the program, passing scores on the required Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE), and application through the Florida Department of Education.
Potential career paths include:
- Elementary School Teacher
- Guidance Counselor
- Admissions Counselor
- Literacy Specialist
- ESOL Instructor
- Educational Program Coordinator
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Student Stories
Elementary Education students gain valuable experience through classroom placements, teaching residencies, international teaching opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences. These opportunities help future educators develop the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to positively impact the lives of their students.
Sarah Mae Rossman ’24: Teaching with Purpose
“PBA’s Elementary Education degree has equipped me for a variety of diverse educational environments through my coursework in ESOL methods and cultural dimensions. My growth as a teacher has been intentionally cultivated and challenged by incredible professors who helped me develop a solid teaching philosophy that is both student-centered and Christ-rooted.”
— Sarah Mae Rossman ’24
Kaelin Hatfield: Education Beyond the Classroom
Watch Kaelin Hatfield’s story below to learn how her experience as an Elementary Education student at PBA inspired her passion for service. Through her education and faith, Kaelin was empowered to launch a nonprofit organization and participate in humanitarian efforts that impact communities around the world.
Financial Aid
PBA’s robust scholarship program awards over $3 million every year. Invest in your learning with major-specific scholarships and other financial aid opportunities, which are awarded to 97% of our undergraduate students. Explore the resources below to learn more about tuition, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
