Overview
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Why Major in 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.
Gain the knowledge and skills needed to support students with diverse learning needs through the Exceptional Student Education concentration. This concentration prepares future educators to create inclusive learning environments, adapt instruction, and help every student reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
- 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
Curriculum & Instructional Materials for the Exceptional Student
Learn how to design and adapt instruction, curriculum, and classroom materials to support students with diverse learning needs.
Introduction to Speech and Language Development and Disorders
Explore communication development, language acquisition, and common speech and language disorders encountered in educational settings.
Health Environment in the Elementary School
Develop strategies for supporting student health, wellness, safety, and learning within inclusive classroom environments.
Exceptional Student Education Concentration
This program follows the Elementary Education K-6/ESOL/Reading degree requirements while adding specialized coursework focused on supporting students with diverse learning needs. Students develop the skills needed to create inclusive classrooms, adapt instruction, and help every learner succeed.
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.
Students in the Exceptional Student Education concentration gain additional experience working with diverse learners through specialized coursework and field experiences focused on inclusive education and differentiated instruction.
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
- Exceptional Student Education Teacher
- Inclusion Specialist
- Literacy Specialist
- ESOL Instructor
- Educational Program Coordinator
- Guidance Counselor
Related Articles
How to Become a Teacher in Florida
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.
