B.S. in Elementary Education
Inspire the Next Generation of Learners
The Elementary Education program at Saint Xavier University prepares candidates to teach in grades 1 through 6 in Illinois schools. Completion of the program leads to a Bachelor of Science and prepares candidates to obtain an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement in Elementary Education and a Reading Teacher Endorsement. The Elementary Education program integrates courses and field experiences that will prepare students to teach in a variety of educational settings, including public and private schools.
Why Earn Your B.S. in Elementary Education?
The education profession is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling careers. Teachers serve as the cornerstone of a child's educational journey through their development as they become critical thinkers and problem solvers.
About the Program
The Elementary Education program consists of general education and professional education courses that address requirements for graduation and State of Illinois requirements for licensure. Elementary Education candidates will be concurrently enrolled in professional education coursework and field/practicum experiences designed to reinforce concepts and skills learned in the classroom. The field/practicum experience blocks are designed to provide opportunities for candidates to apply course concepts in authentic environments. Required activities and assignments provide candidates with the opportunity to connect theory and practice and prepare candidates for daily classroom responsibilities. Elementary Education teacher candidates will observe and participate in a wide range of in-classroom teaching experiences to develop the skills and confidence necessary to be effective teachers. The Elementary Education practicum and student teaching/clinical practice experiences have been designed as a serious apprenticeship that requires teacher candidates to spend one academic year inside schools working alongside veteran elementary school teachers. All candidates for licensure are required to successfully pass state-mandated examinations before licensure is granted. Students must attempt the content area exam before their student teaching semester (www.il.nesinc.com) and must earn a minimum grade of C in all coursework.
The field/practicum experiences in the Elementary Education program offer invaluable opportunities for candidates to apply the concepts they've learned in the classroom to real-world teaching environments. These immersive, hands-on experiences bridge theory and practice, giving candidates the confidence and skills needed to thrive as effective educators.
SXU is dedicated to shaping educators who excel in today's dynamic classrooms. The Elementary Education program is designed to equip students with a deep knowledge base, essential skills, and a mindset of continuous inquiry. SXU fosters the development of professional dispositions that embrace diversity and inclusion, ensuring our graduates are prepared to meet the needs of all learners.
At the undergraduate level, Saint Xavier University is one of the seven largest providers of teachers in Illinois. Saint Xavier University's Education Division has a long and successful history of preparing students for careers in teaching with a curriculum that guides teacher candidates to become scholars, lifelong learners, leaders, and reflective practitioners. Rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy, our mission emphasizes compassion, service, and social justice. As a student in our Education Division, you'll be inspired to integrate these values into your teaching practice, making a meaningful impact on your students and community. You'll learn to educate with empathy, advocate for equity, and lead with a heart committed to service.
SXU offers a variety of education endorsements designed to expand the expertise of teacher candidates and practicing educators. Endorsements are aligned with Illinois state standards, ensuring that educators are well-prepared to meet the needs of students in diverse classroom settings.
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Contact the Office of Admission
- 773-298-3050
- Toll Free: 844-GOTO-SXU (844-468-6798)
- Fax: 773-298-3076
- Email: admissionFREESXU
- M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Other Undergraduate Education Programs
Director of Education