Elementary Education Major Program 

The Elementary Education major offered by the Department of Education, Development, Teaching & Learning (EDTL) prepares teacher candidates to be outstanding K-8 educational leaders and facilitators of learning.

Program Highlights

• Eligibility for a Washington State teaching certificate/initial endorsement in Elementary Education.
• Major specializes in kindergarten to grade 8 education 
• Seven (7) quarters including student teaching (80 course credits/16 credits student teaching) 
• Elementary school field experiences every quarter
• Thematic quarters to fully explore concepts and deepen learning
• Knowledgeable and experienced faculty who focus on teaching in elementary grades
• Practical classroom management, instructional, and assessment needed by beginning educators.
• Focus on diverse learners and whole child development and learning.
• High standards are set and manifest in observable ways, such as:
  • The integration of authentic materials and technology
  • Best practices in pedagogy and assessment
  • The blending of standards-based instruction and creative expression
  • The accentuation of a positive classroom environment through classroom management techniques that empower students to be intrinsically motivated to learn

Elementary Education Major in the University Catalog

Do I need a Dual or Second Endorsement?  What is an endorsement?

An endorsement is a Washington state teaching certificate area.  Any education major may add a second endorsement.

Available endorsements

Program Admission Details

Admissions Phase 1: Elementary Education Program Prerequisites

The EDTL Department has structured the Elementary Education major so that you may graduate as quickly as possible. This requires students to have all of their General Education Requirements and prerequisites completed prior to beginning the program.

• Visit with a pre-program CEPS advisor (listed below) located in Black Hall, or at your Center location.

Admissions Phase 2: Admission to the Teacher Certification Program

1. Review Requirements for Teacher Certification Program
2. Submit your Teacher Certification Program Application

• Declare a major. Discuss minor and/or second major options with your CEPS advisor. Once you are Fully Admitted to Teacher Certification and have declared a major, you will be assigned an EDTL Faculty Advisor who can also help you through this step.
   
• Complete MATH 164—Foundations of Arithmetic (5) and MATH 226—Mathematics for Teachers: Geometry & Measurement (4) with a “C” or higher.

• Obtain proof you have purchased a minimum of $1 million liability insurance. Insurance can be purchased through CWU by completing the Professional Liability Insurance Enrollment form.
   
• Obtain valid WSPI/FBI fingerprint clearance and maintain it throughout the program.  Fingerprints are valid for 2 years only.
  • You may obtain WSPI/FBI fingerprints at the Teacher Certification Office, located in Black Hall 228, or from your local Educational Service District (ESD).