Elementary Teacher Education

Teaching and learning experiences within the Elementary Education program are consistent with the vision statement of the School of Education and Human Services: “A community of learners committed to developing human potential.”

Coursework and program experiences are designed to develop your potential to become an exemplary educator. Upon completing the elementary education program you will earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree and upon successful completion of the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC), you will be recommended for a Michigan standard teaching certificate. To get started, check out the program requirements and contact an academic adviser by clicking the button above or emailing [email protected].

Program Features:

• Kindergarten to Grade 6 Certification. This dual-endorsement program (PK-3, 3-6) was designed to align with MDE’s new grade band structure and prepare you to teach grades K-6.
• Preparation to Teach All Core Subjects. The new program will prepare you to teach the four core content areas equally well, with added emphasis in all social studies and sciences, and an enhanced focus on literacy and mathematics teaching. 
• Practice-Based Coursework with Extensive and Supported Field Placements. You will receive 600+ hours of field experiences (including student teaching). Coaching in core teaching practices such as eliciting student thinking, building respectful relationships, and leading group discussions will be embedded across all coursework.
• Emphasis on Creating Equitable and Inclusive Classrooms. One of our core values is to ensure all students have an equitable opportunity to learn. We are committed to preparing teachers who embrace diversity, are skilled in creating inclusive classrooms, and are prepared to advocate for all children and families. 
• Cohort Model with Full-Time Enrollment During Junior & Senior Years. Learning to teach requires a commitment of your time and attention. Our major standing coursework is designed for day or day/evening schedules, with classes on either Monday/Wednesday or Thursday/Thursday. Keep in mind that some courses will require a daytime commitment to accommodate a supervised field experience. 
• Fewer Credits. Whether you join us as a freshman or transfer in as a junior, we have structured the new program so that you can graduate in only 121 credits. Work with your academic adviser early to plan your program.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, you can pursue the program as a second undergraduate or you may apply for the MAT in Elementary Education program.

Academic Advising
This program is available at two locations. For academic advising, please contact:

1. OU in Rochester (Main Campus)
   Pawley Hall, Room 363
   (248) 370-4182
   oakland.edu/sehs-advising
   
   
2. OU in Macomb (Macomb University Center)
   UC2, Suite 103
   Laurie Shano

In addition to university requirements, you will need to:

• Have a 2.8 cumulative grade point average at Oakland University
• Receive a minimum grade of 3.0 in the required pre-professional education courses:
  • EED 1000: Careers in Teaching
  • EED 2000: Teaching, Learning, and Schools
  • EED 2400: Science for the Elementary Teacher
  • EED 2500: Social Studies for the Elementary Teacher
  • RDG 2200: Literature for Children
• Complete an application for major standing in Elementary Education
• Sign an acknowledgement outlining the requirements and expectations for the program completion