Our Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (B. S. Ed.) degree program is designed to prepare candidates for initial teacher certification in grades Pre-Kindergarten through fifth grade Georgia school settings. Program coursework and field experiences promote research-based practices that ensure that all students can and do learn. Through a full year of field experiences in public schools candidates apply the content knowledge and pedagogical skills learned in professional education courses.

Program faculty are dedicated to the ideals of social justice and endeavor to equip graduates with the ability work within the existing systems or to change existing systems to bring about equitable environments for all learners.

For more information, please see the Academic Catalog. A program map, which provides a guide for students to plan their course of study, is available for download in the Courses tab below.

Candidates who successfully complete this program will earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Satisfactory completion of this program results in a concentration in mathematics and reading and leads to a clear and renewable teaching certificate (T-4) in Georgia. For questions regarding out-of-state licensure, please visit our Professional Licensure Regulations webpage.

As a student in our degree program, you'll learn strategies to help all students succeed by focusing on subjects such as:

•    Knowledge and understanding of the classroom learner
•    Methodologies of content area instruction
•    Research in Elementary Education 
•    Curriculum theory and development
•    Infusion of technology in instructional practices   

Completion Requirements:
•    123 semester hours

Estimated time to completion is 4 years. Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

Career Opportunities

Link to Additional Career Information:
https://www.buzzfile.com/Major/Education External Resource

Program Location

Carrollton Campus, Newnan

Method of Delivery

Courses are primarily taught face to face. Some courses may be available partially or fully online, however, this is not an online program.

Accreditation

The University of West Georgia is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Credit and transfer

Total semester hours required: 123
A transfer credit evaluation will be completed by the UWG Transfer Team (transfer@westga.edu). Course application to a program is subject to review by the department.

This program may be earned entirely face-to-face. However, depending on the courses chosen, a student may choose to take some partially or fully online courses.

Save money

UWG is often ranked as one of the most affordable accredited universities of its kind, regardless of the method of delivery chosen.

Details

  • Total tuition costs and fees may vary, depending on the instructional method of the courses in which the student chooses to enroll.
  • The more courses a student takes in a single term, the more they will typically save in fees and total cost.
  • Face-to-face or partially online courses are charged at the general tuition rate and all mandatory campus fees, based on the student's residency (non-residents are charged at a higher rate).
  • Fully or entirely online course tuition rates and fees my vary depending on the program. Students enrolled in exclusively online courses do not pay non-Resident rates.
  • Together this means that GA residents pay about the same if they take all face-to-face or partially online courses as they do if they take only fully online courses exclusively; while non-residents save money by taking fully online courses.
  • One word of caution: If a student takes a combination of face-to-face and online courses in a single term, he/she will pay both all mandatory campus fees and the higher eTuition rate.
  • For cost information, as well as payment deadlines, see the Student Accounts and Billing Services website

There are a variety of financial assistance options for students, including scholarships and work study programs. Visit the Office of Financial Aid's website for more information.

Downloads

Major Required

An introduction to the psychological theories and principles applied to the classroom. The course will include aspects of learning, motivation, classroom management, and assessment. Emphasis will be placed on developmentally designed instruction for all students.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

An introductory course that surveys methods and activities to teach fundamental skills in movement/dance/drama, art and music in the early childhood/elementary curriculum. Field experience required. Admission to Teacher Education. Course Equivalent ECSE 3214.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students will examine theories and models for designing curriculum, instruction, and classroom management in Pre-K through fifth grade classrooms. Students will also observe and apply these theories and models during a field based experience.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students are placed in a designated early childhood/elementary site. Requirements include observing children and planning and implementing learning activities with the guidance of a qualified supervisor. Course equivalent ECSE 4783.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Overviews development of acquisition of mathematical concepts. The assessment/correction process is examined. Teaching strategies appropriate to children with learning difficulties are described. Individual assessment and analysis of a particular child's mathematical problems, including teaching to this analysis are developed in case study form. Current research on teaching mathematics to children with special needs is examined. Knowledge of teaching strategies and the assessment/correction process will be applied during field experience. Must be taken concurrently with ECED 4284, READ 3263 and READ 4251 or with advisor approval.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course requires the supervised and coordinated diagnosing and correcting of students in K-5 classrooms. The lab experiences shall require demonstration of the content knowledge and pedagogical skills acquired in ECED 4251 - Assessment and Correction in Mathematics Education.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students will examine the current content and methodology of social studies education for young learners (grades P-5). Students will design and implement learning experiences that incorporate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes appropriate for an elementary social studies program. Course equivalent ECSE 4761

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students will examine content, methodology, skills, and materials used to teach science to children in grades P-5 by means of course discussions and assignments, field placements/assignments and course readings. Emphasis will be placed on developmentally appropriate practices and integration with mathematics and other appropriate subject areas. Must be taken concurrently with ECED 4261, ECED 4263, ECED 4283 and READ 3262 or with advisor approval.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Mathematics education content, methods and materials which are appropriate for the cognitive development of the young child from Pre-K to Grade 5 will be investigated. Students will apply knowledge of content, methods and materials during field experience. Must be takenconcurrently with ECED 4261, ECED 4262, ECED 4283 and READ 3262 or with advisor approval.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students are placed in a designated early childhood/elementary site. Requirements include observing children and planning and implementing learning activities with the guidance of a qualified supervisor. Must be taken concurrently with ECED 4261, ECED 4262, ECED 4263 and READ 3262 or with advisor approval.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Application for field experience required prior to enrollment. Students are placed in a designated early childhood/elementary site. Requirements include observing children and planning and implementing learning activities with the guidance of a qualified supervisor.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Students will be involved 15 weeks (one semester) in a full-time, supervised and directed classroom setting. Application to field experience required prior to enrollment Must be taken concurrently with ECED 4289; a practicum/intership fee will be charged.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Designed to engage interns in a critical reflection of issues, topics materials and skills appropriate to their professional development and teaching experience during their internship. Will also serve as a capstone experience for satisfying exit requirements of the program. Must be taken concurrently with ECED 4286 or ECED 4288.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

(Non-credit for mathematics major or minor.) Special emphasis for teachers of grades P-8. Broadens understanding of the fundamental concepts of algebra, with particular attention to specific methods and materials of instruction. Special emphasis for teachers of grades P-8.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Non-credit for mathematics major or minor. Special emphasis for teachers of grades P-8. Broadens understanding of the fundamental concepts of probability and statistics, with particular attention to specific methods and materials of instruction.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

An overview of how technology can play a role in the teaching and learning process; including digital citizenship, digital learning experiences, and assessment. In addition, aspects related to digital learning activities, assistive technology for students with mild disabilities, and implications of cultural/linguistic diversity for language, technology, and educational programs.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for teaching health and integrating physical activity in the elementary school curriculum. This course is designed for early childhood education majors.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course explores the essential role that children s and adolescent literature plays in literacy development, with a focus on selecting high-quality literary and informational texts for diverse learners. The course emphasizes the application of evidence-based instructional approaches that introduce students to a wide range of high-quality literature that supports students in their learning about themselves, the world around them, and their place within a global society. Students will engage in a field placement to gain practical experience in implementing these strategies in real-world classroom settings.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course provides a holistic introduction to the foundational skills of reading and evidence-based methods and assessment strategies essential for effective reading instruction in PK-2 classrooms. Emphasizing phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension along with comprehensive instructional strategies, this course integrates the science and art of teaching reading. This is the first course in a two-part series that prepares students for Reading Methods and Assessment II. Field experience is required for observation of and the hands-on application of these principles.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course explores the foundational skills and developmental stages of writing, emphasizes the integration of reading and writing, and engages students in authentic writing experiences. The course examines effective writing instruction practices, approaches to assessment, and the connections between language arts components while considering the diverse needs of learners.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

This course equips candidates with the knowledge and skills to instruct and assess elementary students' reading abilities, emphasizing the development of reading comprehension and speaking and listening skills. Students will learn to analyze assessment results, identify reading strengths and weaknesses, and develop tailored instructional strategies to support students literacy development. This course is the second in a two-course sequence that builds upon the concepts learned in Reading Methods and Assessment I (PK-2). Field experience is required to offer observation and application of course concepts.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Study of characteristics, identification and assessment of exceptional children and youth across age ranges and levels of severity, including individualizing instruction in inclusive classrooms. 'Best' ranges and levels of severity, teaching practices for this population also will be examined. Designed for non-special education majors. Students must earn a grade of "B" or better in SPED 3715 or department approved alternative to meet the special education requirement of Georgia House Bill No. 671 and be recommended for educator certification in Georgia. The grade requirement of "B" or better is effective 07/01/2019 for courses completed on or after that date.

View Instructors, Syllabi and Other Details

Rebecca Bowman, Ed.D.

Rebecca Bowman, Ed.D.

Clinical Assistant Professor

Stacey Britton, Ph.D.

Stacey Britton, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Cliff Chestnutt, Ph.D.

Cliff Chestnutt, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Andrea Crenshaw, Ed.D.

Andrea Crenshaw, Ed.D.

Associate Professor

Jennifer Edelman, Ph.D.

Jennifer Edelman, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Rebecca Gault, Ph.D.

Rebecca Gault, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Tiffany Jacobs, Ph.D.

Tiffany Jacobs, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Kayla Myers, PhD

Kayla Myers, PhD

Assistant Professor

Ashley Poole

Ashley Poole

Clinical Assistant Professor

Natasha Ramsay-Jordan, Ed.D.

Natasha Ramsay-Jordan, Ed.D.

Associate Professor & Assistant Chair of Elementary Programs

Robin Strain, M.Ed.

Robin Strain, M.Ed.

Clinical Instructor

Janet Strickland, Ph.D.

Janet Strickland, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Guidelines for Admittance

Each UWG online degree program has specific requirements that you must meet in order to enroll.

Program Specific Admittance Guidelines

  • Admission to Teacher Education: Admission to the teacher education program is a prerequisite to enrollment in professional education courses. Students should file application for admission with their advisor.
  • After completion of core, students must be admitted to Teacher Education to continue into their Professional Education courses. For more information about admission to Teacher Education: https://www.westga.edu/academics/education/advisement/admission-teacher-education.php

Application Deadlines

Current Student Teacher Education admission deadlines: https://www.westga.edu/academics/education/advisement/teacher_education_application_deadlines.php

Admission Process Checklist

  1. Review Admission Requirements for the different programs and guides for specific populations (non-traditional, transfer, transient, home school, joint enrollment students, etc).
  2. Review important deadlines:
    • Fall semester: June 1 (undergrads)
    • Spring semester: November 15 (undergrads)
    • Summer semester: May 15 (undergrads)
      See program specific calendars here
  3. Complete online application
    Undergraduate Admissions Guide

    Undergraduate Application

    Undergraduate International Application
  4. Submit $40 non-refundable application fee
  5. Submit official documents

    Request all official transcripts and test scores be sent directly to UWG from all colleges or universities attended. If a transcript is mailed to you, it cannot be treated as official if it has been opened. Save time by requesting transcripts be sent electronically.

    Undergraduate & Graduate Applicants should send all official transcripts to:
    Office of Undergraduate Admissions, Murphy Building
    University of West Georgia
    1601 Maple Street
    Carrollton, GA 30118-4160
  6. Submit a Certificate of Immunization, if required. If you will not ever be traveling to a UWG campus or site, you may apply for an Immunization Exemption. See Immunizations Guidelines for more information.
  7. Check the status of your application
  8. For more information, go to UWG Admission Deadlines

Contact

COE Advisement Center Administrative Assistant
coeadv@westga.edu

Advisors (based on first letter of student last name)

Elementary Education
A-R - Shabina Panjwani
S-T - Marnica Camille Reid
U-Z - Bethany Schmelzer
Newnan Campus - Randy Blackmon

Specific dates for admissions (Undergraduates Only), go to: UWG Undergraduate Admission Deadlines

  • 1.0 Development, Learning and Motivation: Candidates know, understand, and use the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to development of children and young adolescents to construct learning opportunities that support individual students' development, acquisition of knowledge, and motivation (ACEI 1)
  • 2.1 Reading, Writing, and Oral Language: Candidates demonstrate a high level of competence in use of English language arts and they know, understand, and use concepts from reading, language, and child development, to teach reading, writing, speaking, viewing, listening, and thinking skills and to help students successfully apply their developing skills to many different situation, materials, and ideas.

    2.2 Science: Candidates know, understand, and use fundamental concepts of physical, life, and earth/space sciences. Candidates can design and implement age-appropriate inquiry lessons to teach science, to build student understanding for persona; and social applications, and to convey the nature of science.

    2.3 Mathematics: Candidates know, understand, and use the major concepts and procedures that define number and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and probability. In doing so they consistently engage problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation.

    2.4 Social Studies: Candidates know, understand, and use the major concepts and modes of inquiry from the social studies, the integrated study of history, geography, the social sciences, and other related areas to promote elementary students' abilities to make informed decisions as citizens of a culturally diverse democratic society and interdependent world.

    2.5 The Arts: Candidates know, understand, and use-as appropriate to their own understanding and skills-the content, functions, and achievements of dance, music, theater, and the several visual arts as primary media for communication, inquiry, and insight among elementary students.

    2.6 Health Education: Candidates know, understand, and use the major concepts in the subject matter of health education to create opportunities for student development and practice of skills that contribute to good health.

    2.7 Physical Education: Candidates know, understand, and use-as appropriate to their own understanding and skills-human movement and physical activity as

  • 3.1 Integrating and applying knowledge for instruction: Candidates plan and implement instruction based on knowledge of students, learning theory, subject matter, curricular goals, and community.

    3.2 Adaptation to diverse students: Candidates understand how elementary students differ in their development and approaches to learning, and create instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse students.

    3.3 Development of critical thinking, problem solving, performance skills: Candidates understand and use a variety of teaching strategies that encourage elementary students' development of critical thinking, problem solving, and problem solving.

    3.4 Active engagement in learning: Candidates use their knowledge and understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior among students at the K-6 level to foster active engagement in learning, self motivation, and positive social interaction and to create supportive learning environments.

    3.5 Communication to foster collaboration: Candidates use their knowledge and understanding of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the elementary classroom (ACEI 3).

  • 4.0 Assessment for instruction: Candidates know, understand, and use formal and informal assessment strategies to plan, evaluate and strengthen instruction that will promote continuous intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of each elementary student (ACEI 4).
  • 5.1 Professional growth, reflection, and evaluation: Candidates are aware of and reflect on their practice in light of research on teaching and resources available for professional learning; they continually evaluate the effects of their professional decisions and actions on students, parents, and other professionals in the learning community and actively seek out opportunities to grow professionally.

    5.2 Collaboration with families, colleagues, and community agencies: Candidates know the importance of establishing and maintaining a positive collaborative relationship with families, school colleagues, and agencies in the larger community to promote the intellectual, social, emotional, physical growth, and well-being of children.

    5.4 Collaboration with colleagues and the community: Candidates foster relationships with school colleagues and agencies in the larger community to support students' learning and well-being (ACEI 5).