Shape the future, one classroom at a time.
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION Degree
At Anderson University, the elementary education program prepares future teachers to inspire young learners and impact generations to come. You’ll gain the knowledge, classroom experience, and professional confidence needed to teach kindergarten through grade six.
Rooted in a Christ-centered community of learning, AU equips you to cultivate curiosity, foster growth, and lead with compassion in today’s elementary classrooms.
Tomorrow’s teachers are preparing right here.
Plant the seeds of knowledge and watch them grow.
Becoming an elementary teacher is both a career and a calling. At AU, you’ll receive personalized mentorship from experienced faculty and hands-on classroom experience that prepares you for licensing exams and professional success.
All elementary education majors select a minor to complement their degree. While the minor does not need to lead to additional licensure, students are encouraged to choose concentrations that strengthen classroom expertise, such as:
- Reading
- Special Education (Mild Intervention)
WHAT YOU’LL STUDY
AU’s elementary education curriculum blends theory and practice to prepare you for real-world teaching.
Sample Courses
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Foundations of Reading Instruction
- Organization & Management for the Elementary Classroom
- Introduction to Mild Disabilities
Program Options Major
Major
Graduate with a BS in Elementary Education in four years.
Minor
Explore a minor in Special Education – mild intervention
EXPERIENCES & GROWTH
Field Experience
Learn by teaching.
Elementary education students participate in:
- Structured classroom observations
- Guided field experiences in local schools
- A full semester of student teaching
Students may also volunteer with organizations such as College Mentors for Kids, gaining additional experience serving and mentoring young learners.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FUTURE TEACHERS
Indiana offers multiple grant and scholarship opportunities to support students pursuing careers in education, including:
- 2021 Study.com Scholarship for Future Teachers
- Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship
- Earline S. Rogers Student Teaching Stipend for Minorities
- Student Teaching Stipend for High-Need Fields
- William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship
Students are encouraged to work with Admissions and Financial Aid to explore eligibility.
Shape the Future, one classroom at a time.
Explore TEACH Grants
Anderson University participates in the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program. A TEACH grant is a non-need-based grant provided to students who intend to teach, in order to help pay for their postsecondary education.
As a condition for receiving a TEACH grant, a student must agree to teach full-time for at least four years as a highly qualified teacher in a high-need field, in a school or educational service agency (ESA) serving low-income students, within eight years of completing or otherwise ceasing to be enrolled in the program of study for which the student received the grant.
If the student does not meet the TEACH grant service obligation terms, all TEACH grant funds received will be converted to a direct unsubsidized loan that must be repaid in full, with interest charged from the date of each TEACH grant disbursement.
At Anderson University, TEACH grants are offered to undergraduates who meet the 3.25 GPA requirement and have been admitted into the teacher preparation program (TPP). The Department of Teacher Education director approves the TEACH grant for each year a student applies.
AFTER GRADUATION
Graduates of Anderson University’s elementary education program are prepared to teach kindergarten through grade six in public and private schools. With strong preparation in literacy, classroom management, and differentiated instruction, AU alumni enter the classroom ready to lead with confidence, creativity, and care.
Many graduates also pursue advanced study in reading, special education, educational leadership, or curriculum development.
Career Pathways
Common careers include:
- Elementary School Teacher (K–6)
- Literacy or Reading Specialist
- Special Education Teacher (with additional licensure)
- Instructional Coach
- Curriculum or Instructional Coordinator
- School or Youth Program Director
- Education Program Coordinator
- Private School or Christian School Teacher
Earning Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,
- Elementary School Teachers earn a median annual wage of $62,340.
- Kindergarten Teachers earn a median annual wage of $61,430.
- The top 10% of elementary teachers earn more than $102,000 annually, depending on experience, education level, and district.
Industry Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 103,800 openings each year for kindergarten and elementary teachers nationwide as schools replace retiring educators and those transitioning to new careers.
FAQ: Elementary Education at Anderson University
What grade levels will I be licensed to teach?
The elementary education program prepares candidates for licensure in kindergarten through grade six.
Do I need to choose a minor?
Yes. All elementary education majors select a minor. Many students choose reading or special education to strengthen classroom expertise.
Will I gain classroom experience before graduating?
Yes. Students complete classroom observations, structured field experiences, and a full semester of student teaching.
Is teaching a good career choice?
Teaching offers meaningful work, strong community impact, and long-term career stability. Educators play a vital role in shaping the next generation of learners and leaders.
Where is Anderson University located?
Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, just northeast of Indianapolis. Students enjoy a residential campus community with easy access to internships, careers, and cultural opportunities across central Indiana and the broader Midwest.
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.