About the Elementary Education Program
The Elementary Education program at Tougaloo College prepares dedicated educators to inspire and guide students in grades K-6. Our comprehensive curriculum combines theory with extensive hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are ready to create engaging, inclusive learning environments that foster academic excellence and personal growth.
Through rigorous coursework, field experiences, and student teaching placements, our program develops skilled professionals who understand child development, curriculum design, assessment strategies, and classroom management. Graduates leave equipped to make a meaningful impact in diverse educational settings.
Expert Faculty
Learn from experienced educators who bring real-world classroom expertise and cutting-edge research to your learning experience.
Hands-On Experience
Gain practical teaching experience through extensive field placements and student teaching in diverse elementary school settings.
Comprehensive Preparation
Master curriculum development, assessment, classroom management, and inclusive teaching strategies for all learners.
Career Opportunities in Elementary Education
An Elementary Education degree opens doors to rewarding careers in teaching and educational leadership. Whether you choose the classroom, curriculum development, or educational administration, you'll be prepared to shape young minds and create positive change in education.
Teaching Positions
- Elementary School Teacher (K-6)
- Reading Specialist
- Special Education Teacher
- ESL/ELL Teacher
- Title I Reading Teacher
- Substitute Teacher
Educational Support Roles
- Instructional Coach
- Curriculum Coordinator
- Academic Intervention Specialist
- Educational Technology Coordinator
- Tutoring Center Director
Leadership & Administration
- Assistant Principal
- Principal (with additional certification)
- Department Head
- Educational Consultant
- Policy Analyst
Degree Requirements
The Elementary Education program at Tougaloo College offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program for aspiring educators. Our program provides a strong foundation for those seeking initial teacher certification and emphasizes hands-on learning, field experiences, and evidence-based teaching practices.
Students engage in extensive practicum placements and student teaching experiences that prepare them for the realities of modern elementary classrooms. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to develop skilled, confident educators.
Elementary Education, B.A.
Expected Student Learning Outcomes
Specific expected learning outcomes for the Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Secondary Education are measured and monitored by Tougaloo College, the School of Education, and the Teacher Education Advisory Council (TEAC), whose members are representatives from public schools and community educational partners. The elementary and secondary education degrees are essentially structured to meet the Mississippi Board of Education and Mississippi Department of Education standards, such as complying with state and national curriculum standards as well as guidelines and standards of Educator Preparation Provider (EPP) and the Council of Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Table 1, Standards Utilized for Expected Student Learning Outcomes, serves as the expected student learning outcomes that are used to continuously assess, document, and improve the curriculum and overall education program. The standards below serve as the primary learning outcomes of the degree programs:
Pre-Professional Courses in Elementary Education
Field experience and practicum courses are noted with an asterisk (*). These foundational courses prepare students for success in the classroom by introducing key educational theories, psychology, research, and instructional skills. Students will explore diverse learning needs, assessment strategies, and subject-specific teaching techniques to build a strong base for further professional coursework.
This course develops students' understanding of classroom environments and the path to becoming a professional educator. Topics include field observation, teaching career resources, national and state standards, education law and policy, and portfolio development.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Focusing on human behavior and learning processes from birth to adulthood, this course introduces major theories of learning, cognition, and assessment. Students gain foundational knowledge in behavior modification, test construction, and adolescent development. Observation is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Includes observation requirement
This course provides an overview of exceptional learners and the laws, assessment methods, and instructional strategies used to support them. Emphasis is placed on understanding diverse student needs and inclusive classroom practices.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Includes practicum experience
This course covers essential mathematical concepts including set theory, whole numbers, rational numbers, and systems of integers. It prepares future educators with foundational mathematical skills.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite: MAT 091 with a grade of "C" or higher
Students gain a conceptual understanding of non-metric geometry, measurement, and probability. The course also reinforces key concepts within the real number system.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite: MAT 091 with a grade of "C" or higher
This course introduces education majors to research writing techniques, including literature reviews, APA formatting, and academic paper development. It provides essential preparation for advanced research and capstone work.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite: ENG 101 and ENG 102
Professional Courses in Elementary Education
These professional courses build core competencies in educational theory and mathematics content knowledge essential for teaching in elementary school settings. Courses marked with an asterisk (*) include field experience or practicum components.
This course introduces students to the foundational elements of professional teaching. It emphasizes classroom dynamics, education law and policy, national and state standards, and student learning outcomes. Topics also include teacher career paths, professional organizations, and portfolio development.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Includes field observation component
This course reviews foundational mathematical concepts such as set theory, whole numbers, rational numbers, integers, and their respective systems. It is essential for educators developing content knowledge for elementary-level math instruction.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite: MAT 091 with a grade of “C” or higher
Students explore core concepts in geometry, measurement techniques, and basic probability. This course enhances content knowledge for educators responsible for teaching mathematics in K–8 settings.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite: MAT 091 with a grade of “C” or higher
This course introduces students to the foundational principles of research writing in the field of education. Emphasis is placed on locating and interpreting professional journal articles, writing abstracts, and producing formal papers using APA style. This seminar is required for all School of Education majors and recommended for Secondary Education majors.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): ENG 101 and ENG 102
This seminar explores contemporary theories and strategies in behavior management within K–12 educational settings. Students will develop practical applications for managing diverse student populations, culminating in the design and presentation of a comprehensive behavior management project. Practicum is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): EDE 101
Includes practicum
This course develops students’ ability to read simple musical scores using classroom instruments and plan age-appropriate musical experiences. Emphasis is placed on singing, rhythm, listening, and creative music-making for children in elementary settings.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): Junior or Senior standing as an Elementary Education major
This course explores developmental and remedial reading instruction across K–12 settings. Students will examine diagnostic techniques, instructional materials, and integration of technology. Emphasis is placed on language development and literacy across the curriculum. Practicum is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This course covers the goals and content of social studies instruction for grades K–8. Topics include multicultural awareness, value development, lesson planning, implementation strategies, and evaluation methods. Technology integration is also addressed. Practicum is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): EDU 313
This course focuses on science instruction for K–8 students. Emphasis is placed on instructional strategies, planning, and evaluation, with attention to technology use and the development of contemporary science programs. Practicum is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This course emphasizes mathematics instruction for grades K–8, addressing curriculum development, diagnostic teaching, and instructional strategies for diverse learners. The course incorporates technology and methods for teaching exceptional learners. Practicum is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): Nine hours of Math
This course introduces students to the use of educational assessments and research methods. Topics include historical foundations, quantitative and basic qualitative measures, and applications of technology in evaluation.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This course examines strategies for tailoring instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, including children with exceptionalities. Emphasis is placed on inclusive practices and curriculum adaptations for varied developmental levels.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This course explores principles, curriculum, and methods for teaching health and physical education to children in grades K–6. Includes observation and planning techniques to promote physical well-being. Required for Health & PE certification.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This course studies physical growth and motor development in early childhood. Emphasizes movement analysis and the design of developmentally appropriate physical activities. Co-listed as PHR 424. Lecture and lab format.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This capstone teaching experience provides full-time, supervised student teaching in elementary classrooms. Students will apply instructional techniques, classroom management strategies, and reflective teaching practices.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This elective course may be selected based on the student’s area of emphasis, academic interest, or program requirement. Electives provide flexibility to explore specific topics or meet credit hour totals.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Select one of the following.
This course is designed to focus on the study of human behavior from birth to death; cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning processes; behavior modification, concept learning, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. It also focuses on the principles of measurement and evaluation applied to the preparation and analysis of teacher-made tests and standardized tests used in schools to measure intelligence, aptitude, achievement, interests, and personality. Additionally, this course will cover the major Theories and Theorists of adolescent psychology.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Includes observation experience
This course is a study of psychological principles and learning processes from infancy to adulthood, including the acquisition of motor skills. Designed for students pursuing careers in Psychology, Human Development, Nursing, or Education, the course covers topics such as perception, language, reasoning, and social behavior. Observation is required.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Includes observation component (alternative to EDU 214)
Inspire the Next Generation of Learners
Join the Elementary Education program at Tougaloo College and prepare to make a lasting impact in the lives of young students. Shape minds, build futures, and become the teacher you've always wanted to be.