Elementary Education Major
Elementary Education is the study of how to teach children in the early grades. It is a major within Education.
The Elementary Education major prepares students to teach children typically from kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade. Students study how children learn and develop at different ages, how to design lessons that engage young learners, and how to manage a classroom effectively. The major covers reading instruction, mathematics teaching methods, science and social studies instruction, and how to support students with different learning needs. Students also learn about assessment—how to evaluate whether children are understanding material and how to adjust teaching accordingly. Throughout the program, there is emphasis on understanding child development and creating inclusive learning environments where all students can succeed.
Students who choose this major are generally drawn to working with young children and have an interest in shaping their early educational experiences. The program typically begins with foundational courses in child development, learning theory, and the history of education. As students progress, coursework becomes more specialized, focusing on specific subject areas and teaching methods. Students also gain hands-on experience through field placements and practice teaching, where they apply what they have learned in actual classroom settings under the guidance of experienced educators.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Elementary Education program commonly includes topics such as:
- Child development
- Curriculum and instruction
- Educational psychology
- Reading instruction
- Classroom management
- Student teaching
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Elementary Education is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Elementary Education background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Elementary teacher
- Curriculum aide
- Tutor
- Instructional assistant
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Elementary Education major?
Elementary Education is the study of how to teach children in the early grades. It is part of education, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Elementary Education majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as child development, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, reading instruction, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Elementary Education major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as elementary teacher, curriculum aide, tutor. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Elementary Education offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's level, though availability varies by institution.