We See Your Future at the Head of the Classroom
Inspire future generations of leaders and innovators in an accredited Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education focused on professional growth.
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood, Special and Elementary Education
Few people are as influential in a child’s life as their teachers. They can inspire a lifelong love of learning. They help children learn to socialize and work with others. They are the backbone of every community. Earning a Bachelor of Science Education in Elementary Education (PK–6) from Norfolk State University is the best step you can take on the path to becoming an elementary teacher in a public or private school and making positive impacts on the lives of children and families in your community.
With a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from NSU, you’ll have the expertise and experience to create inclusive classroom environments to serve and engage diverse student populations. Our bachelor’s degree in elementary education program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) — which means that you’ll graduate with one of the top elementary education degrees in the state.
The United States is currently facing an extreme shortage of teachers in elementary education, making now the best time to enter the field. The theoretical and practical training you receive from our distinguished faculty will help you stand out when applying to positions in elementary schools around the state.
Excellent professional preparation in the Bachelor of Science Education in Elementary Education program
Our commitment to the training and success of our graduates means that nearly 100% of our students receive job offers, even before graduation day. Thanks to experiential learning and opportunities to observe children learning and playing, you’ll have the experience to step into your own classroom with confidence on day one of your career.
B.S. in Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education Degree at a Glance
- Average Class Size: 16
- Formats Offered: In Person
- Total Credit Hours: 120
View Early Childhood, Elementary and special Education plans of study | Request more information | Apply now
Why Study Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education at NSU?
Our bachelor’s in elementary education degree program offers individualized support from an active community of faculty, peers and alumni dedicated to building each other up and being the best educators that they can be.
When you earn your undergraduate degree in elementary education at NSU, you’ll enjoy a balanced combination of research-based methodologies and practical, clinical experiences working with children as they learn. Our dedication to hands-on learning helps make our program one of the most respected elementary education degrees in the nation.
Earn an affordable bachelor’s in elementary education
We pride ourselves on offering one of the most accessible and affordable elementary education degrees in the country — to help every aspiring elementary teacher achieve their dreams. Additionally, NSU and the School of Education offer grants and scholarships to further help you pay for your bachelor’s in elementary education.
Get hands-on experience in your field
Benefit from real-world experience in your courses. Visit the Norfolk State University Preschool Academy and surrounding schools to observe children in their natural learning environment. You’ll also have chances to engage young readers and share your passion for reading and learning while you earn your bachelor’s in elementary education.
Join an engaged community
When you earn your degree in elementary education at NSU, you can also arrange to live in our Learning Community for elementary education majors, in which you can immerse yourself in the NSU education community and make lasting personal and professional connections.
What Courses Will I Take as an Elementary Education Student?
In the NSU bachelor’s in elementary education program, you will develop and strengthen skills in curriculum design and classroom management. Our program provides you with the tools to create and maintain inclusive classrooms for students from all kinds of cultural and economic backgrounds.
The degree in elementary education requires completion of a minimum of 120 credit hours of core general education classes and classes specific to your major and interests.
Some of the most popular courses in our bachelor’s in elementary education include:
- African/Afro-American Art
- Education Technology
- Trends and Issues in Diverse Populations
- Human Growth and Development
View the full B.S. in elementary education degree curriculum.
Where Will My Degree in Elementary Education Take Me?
The many successes of our graduates are a major reason we stand out from other early childhood, elementary and special education schools around the country.
As an elementary or special education teacher, you would work with children from prekindergarten to sixth grade in public, charter, private elementary or special education schools. Most of our elementary education degree graduates work within Hampton Roads and throughout the East Coast.
With the solid foundation in theory and practice that our program provides students, many graduates go on to earn a graduate degree in elementary education to take on more responsibilities within their schools.
Career outlook for elementary education majors
Employment for pre-K, kindergarten and elementary teachers is expected to grow by up to 15% through 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s much faster than the average for all other occupations in the U.S.
Almost 100% of elementary education degree graduates from NSU find jobs before graduation.
How Do I Get Started in the Elementary, Early Childhood and Special Education Program at NSU?
Choosing to dedicate your education and career to teaching is a big decision. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way — from orientation day to well beyond graduation day. We have an amazing team of advisers and staff who can help you with submitting your applications, finding financial aid and preparing for the job market after graduating with your bachelor’s in elementary education.
Learn more about the requirements for the degree in elementary education program
“I decided to come to Norfolk State because of that culture of care and also the family-like relationship that is between everyone here. Norfolk State is preparing me to lead. Norfolk State is preparing me to teach. And Norfolk State is preparing me to change the world.”
-Jordan Moody ’26, History Education
Degree Programs Related to Elementary Education
Accreditation for Elementary Education at NSU
The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education (PK-6) is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP), which creates high standards to ensure that institutions provide future teachers with the knowledge and skills to support the development of all students.