Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Degree Online
Prepare for a Career as a K-8 Teacher
A Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree is an undergraduate degree program that can help prepare you for a career as a K–8 elementary teacher and to seek initial teacher licensure. This degree pathway is tailored for students aspiring to lead in the mental, emotional and social development of children, while also establishing a strong foundation in early academic fundamentals such as math and reading.
This primary education program can help prepare teachers to identify their students’ strengths and areas of opportunity. Based on those insights, teachers will tailor content, instruction and projects that aim to meet diverse student needs and interests. Other job responsibilities may include:
- Motivating and engaging students
- Performing assessments and evaluations
- Collecting and analyzing student data
- Establishing behavioral expectations
- Communicating with parents or guardians
Explore Classroom Management Strategies at an Accredited University
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GCU’s program meets Arizona elementary education teaching requirements in a K-8 classroom environment. Courses and formats are approved by the Arizona State Board of Education and designed to help you strive toward earning your degree in a primary education program.
GCU’s College of Education is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Courses are also aligned to standards set by the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC) and the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
Visit the College of Education Accreditation page for information on the accreditations for GCU’s education degree programs.
Study Elementary Teacher Training Concepts
In this program, you will be taught the specific knowledge and tools necessary to help you prepare to follow your passion for teaching and make a lasting impression on your students’ future.
The teacher preparation curriculum at GCU includes:
- Lesson development to engage diverse learners
- Methods for teaching English language learners
- Overview of how to serve students with mild to moderate disabilities
- Child and early adolescent growth and development
- Research and examination of science- and evidence-based learning concepts
In this online or on-campus instructional degree program, you will explore:
- Lesson planning, assessment, classroom management and diversity including English as a second language (ESL)
- Instructional methods across various subjects
- Expertise from knowledgeable instructors
- Christian worldview and servant leadership principles
GCU’s undergraduate teaching degree curriculum includes opportunities for relevant application of concepts, theories and research with an emphasis on elementary educational field experiences. Teacher candidates will complete approximately 120 hours of observational and practice-based experiences in the field. In addition, candidates will complete a 15-week student teaching experience to further shape career-ready individuals to confidently enter the classroom. Graduates who successfully complete the elementary program are eligible to apply for an elementary teaching certificate in the state of Arizona.
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $455 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
Career Opportunities in K-8 Classrooms
Graduates with this degree may pursue careers in education as an elementary school teacher for K-8 learning environments in private or public schools. A bachelor’s in elementary education can also serve as a segue into earning a master’s degree for advanced knowledge, deepened understanding and the opportunity to position yourself for possible upward mobility.
Many of GCU’s education programs lead to an initial teacher licensure in the state of Arizona. For a full list of state-specific licensure requirements, please visit our state disclosures page. This licensure component is completed through many hours of field work in a physical classroom setting. A degree that does not lead to licensure may still have some field experience, but may not have the lengthy time requirements needed per week that a program leading to licensure does.
I’ve been able to be successful in my job and get to where I am today because of my professors and the GCU community.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section will provide you with answers to some of your most frequently asked questions, so you can make an informed decision about your academic and professional goals.
Explore Emphasis Options
Transform your passion for teaching into a profession. Pursue a bachelor’s in elementary education degree online or in person.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLCommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Program availability varies and is not offered in all states or modalities. If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the “Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures” link for the specific program of interest’s website page for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c). Policy information is located in the University Policy Handbook on gcu.edu. Scholarship information is available on gcu.edu.
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.
1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers, retrieved on Nov. 13, 2023.
2 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers as of May 2023, retrieved on July 26, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as kindergarten and elementary school teachers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022, Oct. 4). Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers - Pay. Retrieved on May 16, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This is the first in a two-course sequence designed for prospective elementary school teachers. Concepts include set theory, functions, numeration systems, number theory and properties of the natural numbers, integers, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, decimals, and percents, with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking.
Course Description
Teacher candidates survey how children and early adolescents grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas. Teacher candidates explore the implications of growth and development for designing and implementing appropriate and challenging learning experiences. This survey of the theories and research related to how children and young adolescents grow and learn allows teacher candidates to build foundational knowledge for constructing learning experiences that take into consideration students' developmental levels, prior experiences, interests, and culture. Upon completion of this course, teacher candidates will have reflected on personal values and biases and established professional learning goals that reflect codes of ethics, professional standards practices, and relevant laws and policies related to the field of education. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.
Course Description
Teacher candidates build foundational knowledge on learning theories to identify and design culturally responsive lessons and a variety of assessments that effectively engage and assess diverse learners. Teacher candidates will apply the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical development of children and young adolescents to design and modify instruction and a variety of assessments. Focus is placed on strategies that support learners in self-reflection, goal setting, and identifying quality work. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.
Course Description
This course provides an overview of the principal political, economic, and cultural themes and constitutional developments that shaped the United States from the Colonial period into the 20th Century.
Course Description
This is the second in a two-course sequence designed for prospective elementary school teachers. Concepts include elementary probability, data analysis, descriptive statistics, geometry of shapes in two and three dimensions, congruence and similarity, measurement, and geometric transformations, with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. Prerequisite: MAT-150.
Course Description
Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify preventative and responsive practices related to cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying appropriate times to differentiate, modify, or accommodate to support student learning. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.
Course Description
In this writing intensive course, teacher candidates examine how to establish and maintain inclusive and collaborative learning environments that promote positive and safe relationships, active engagement, high expectations, and equity for all students. Teacher candidates focus on expanding students' ability to collaborate and communicate through multiple modes and forms of communication. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
In this writing-intensive course, teacher candidates will explore multicultural education by engaging in research, communication, and ethical decision-making, focusing on developing educators' skills in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. Through analysis of evidence and virtuous practice, the course will examine the critical role of educators as advocates for all students, empowering participants to address disparities and promote equitable opportunities for academic success. With a specific focus on the principles of multicultural education, teacher candidates will be encouraged to reflect on the influence of their own worldviews and perceptions. Emphasizing the concept of imago Dei, which sees every individual as made in the image of God, this course aims to foster culturally responsive classrooms that welcome diversity in all forms. Teacher candidates will explore strategies to effectively bridge the gaps between various diversities and academic achievement, to foster human flourishing within the educational sphere. The course blends content with practical application, highlighting the educator's role as an advocate for all students and promoting equitable academic opportunities.
Course Description
Teacher candidates examine how to teach foundational skills to develop proficient readers with the capacity to comprehend texts across a range of texts and disciplines. Teacher candidates build additional knowledge regarding print concepts, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, and fluency to promote early literacy and independent readers. Collaboration with all stakeholders when designing literacy instruction to meet the needs of specific learners is examined. The science surrounding reading instruction is explored and put into practice with this foundational knowledge. Additionally, teacher candidates use a variety of data to reflect on teaching practices, inform instruction, and improve student learning. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.
Course Description
This course is a survey of the Arizona constitution and government. It meets the teacher certification requirement for Arizona government.
Course Description
In this course, teacher candidates examine the fundamentals of the legal, historical, and educational foundations of Structured English Immersion (SEI) and other instructional programs and approaches for teaching English learners. Theoretical principles of language acquisition and the role of culture in learning are examined. Methods of assessment are identified and analyzed. Teacher candidates identify strategies to promote English language development and improve student achievement as they plan, deliver, and evaluate standards-based instruction for English learners. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Teacher candidates develop strategies for literacy intervention and remediation to foster and support student autonomy in the classroom. Teacher candidates build knowledge and skills to analyze and use assessment data when planning literacy supports in all content areas, communicating student progress, promoting self-directed learning, and empowering students to set goals for their own learning outcomes. Language and literacy development is examined to inform intervention and remediation strategies and practices that support readers of varying ages and ability levels, including students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying the strengths and needs of individuals when planning instruction and providing descriptive and timely feedback on student progress. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.
Course Description
Teacher candidates will build an evidence-based foundation for teaching science standards including research on the ways students learn science effectively through creating real-world connections that motivate students, promote cross-curricular skills and inquiry, and extend learning locally and globally. Teacher candidates will examine and implement inquiry-based instructional strategies for teaching science lessons about physical science, earth and space science, life science, and health that integrate the science standards and practices. Emphasis is placed on collaboration and digital literacy to promote learner development, achievement, and well-being. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.
Course Description
Teacher candidates examine a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students to develop a conceptual understanding of the mathematics standards and procedures that define elementary and middle school mathematics including: number sense, place value, basic operations, fractions and decimals, algebra concepts, measurement, and proportions. From this foundational knowledge, candidates select, adapt, and implement research-based methods, instructional strategies, and interventions to purposefully engage learners in using creative and critical-thinking skills and to ensure all students have an equitable learning experience in mathematics. Teacher candidates explore collaboration to promote a mathematical mindset that establishes a positive and supportive learning environment and nurtures learner growth and development. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.
Course Description
Teacher candidates will build foundational knowledge on how to use concepts from reading, language, and child development to teach and assess reading, writing, speaking, viewing, listening, and thinking skills using differentiated and standards-based instruction. From this foundational knowledge, teacher candidates will create opportunities for students to practice academic language and literacy across subject areas. Teacher candidates select, adapt, and implement research-based methods, instructional strategies, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive practices to individualize meaningful and challenging learning for students, with an emphasis on literacy. Emphasis is placed on using a variety of data to monitor learner needs, reflect on student learning, and guide future instruction. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-316.
Course Description
Teacher candidates will examine a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students to independently and collaboratively develop a deep understanding of the major concepts and modes of inquiry from the study of social studies. Teacher candidates will build foundational knowledge on promoting elementary students' abilities to critically analyze and make informed decisions that consider multiple perspectives as citizens of a culturally diverse local and global society. Teacher candidates will integrate the performing and visual arts as primary media for communication, creativity, and engagement among elementary students. Additionally, advocacy for students, families, schools, and the community to strengthen the learning environment, promote student success, and demonstrate leadership is explored. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.
Course Description
Teacher candidates are engaged in the student teaching experience that includes practical classroom experiences, research, analysis, and teaching to support the creation of a Student Teaching Performance of Evaluation (STEP).Teacher candidates are engaged in the student teaching experience that includes practical classroom experiences, research, analysis, and teaching to develop a Student Teaching Evaluation of Performance (STEP). The teacher candidate will have a GCU course instructor, a GCU faculty supervisor, and be placed in an approved school with a certified cooperating teacher/mentor. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all courses in POS and content area; a 2.8 GPA; successful completion of NES or your state’s mandated content area exams; and approval and placement by the College of Education Office of Clinical Practice. All paperwork for student teaching must be submitted by the due date the semester prior to student teaching.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.