Elementary Education (BS)
Elementary Education (BS) Deadlines
Versatile Elementary Educator
The Elementary Education (BS) equips future educators to teach a wide range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, and the Arts. Students choose from specialized tracks to tailor their studies, such as Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (single or dual certification), Learning and Behavior Disorders (P-12), and Moderate and Severe Disabilities (single or dual certification). An Individualized Studies track is also available, allowing candidates to customize a 27-hour curriculum plan with their advisor. This program emphasizes flexibility, proficiency in diverse subject areas, and readiness to teach in various educational settings.
Course Catalog
This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2026-Spring 2027 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Unit: College of Education and Human Development (ED)
Departments: Elementary, Middle & Secondary Teacher Education (EMSTEd) and Special Education, Early Childhood & Prevention Science (SECP)
Academic Plan Code(s): See Track Requirements tab
Program Information
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education has been designed to fulfill the requirements for the Kentucky teacher certification, grades P-5, which includes kindergarten. This degree offers candidates several options from which to choose including single certification in elementary (K-5), interdisciplinary early childhood (birth -age 5), and moderate and severe disabilities (P-12), as well as dual certifications in elementary and interdisciplinary early childhood, and elementary and special education (Learning Behavior Disorders [LBD] and Moderate and Severe Disabilities [MSD]). Teacher education candidates pursuing Elementary Education must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of Language Arts/Reading, Mathematics, Science and Social Sciences along with the Arts and Humanities (e.g., music, art, movement/motion). If candidates choose a dual degree, then they must also demonstrate proficiency in that area as well.
All of the certifications offer extensive field experiences in local schools under the supervision and support from accomplished teachers and University of Louisville field placement supervisors.
Degree Summary
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Requirements 1 | 31 | |
| College/School Requirements 1 | 14 | |
| Program/Major Requirements 1 | 20 | |
| Track Requirements 1,2 | 61-71 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 120 | |
- 1
Some courses required in this degree program may satisfy multiple requirements. To complete the degree in the minimum number of hours listed, some hours from the General Education Requirements must be satisfied by courses defined by the unit and/or program. Using other courses to satisfy General Education requirements will require additional hours to complete the degree requirements. See the Degree Requirements and Track tabs for specific coursework.
- 2
Tracks that requires dual certification require additional coursework and may exceed 120 total hours to graduate.
Specific coursework information can be found on the Degree Requirements tab.
Departmental Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program requires the following:
- Minimum of 35 credit hours (can include hours in-progress during the semester applying)
- Minimum 2.75 or higher overall expanded GPA (all transfer and UofL credits combined), or a 3.0 GPA in the last 30 hours
- B-minus or better in all EDTP and EDSP courses
- Minimum test scores as required by the Education Professional Standards Board
- C or better in ENGL 102 (or equivalent) and in Oral Communication course
- Completion of Early Professional Courses
- Any other requirements as outlined in Application.
General Education Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Requirements 1 | 31 | |
The following courses are required by the program and should be taken to fulfill the respective General Education Requirement: 1 | ||
EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | |
EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | |
MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR 1 | |
| Please see the Track Requirements tab to determine additional courses that will satisfy both a major and General Education requirement. These courses should be taken to fulfill the respective General Education requirement. | ||
- 1
MATH 150 is the QR course required for the Individualized track, as well as Dual Certification tracks in Moderate and Severe Disabilities, Learning and Behavior Disorders, and Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education.
All degrees require the completion of the University-wide General Education Program (link provided above). Some General Education requirements may be met in the requirements for the major or supporting coursework, in which case additional electives may be required to complete the minimum hours for the degree.
The following are not degree requirements, but are required for teacher certification purposes. They are recommended by the program to fulfill General Education Requirements:
- Biology course and lab (S, SL)
- Physical Science course (S)
HIST 104 or HIST 105 are recommended by the program to fulfill the Social & Behavioral Historical Perspective General Education requirement.
College/School Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Early Professional Courses | ||
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 14 | |
Mid-Point Assessment Prior to Elementary and Special Education Student Teaching
Completion of all EDTP and EDSP courses with no grade lower than "B-"; "Pass" in all clinical field work; Electronic documentation of 200 hours of diverse and approved field experiences; satisfactory dispositions assessment; satisfactory performance on all Hallmark Assessment Tasks; Target performance or better on all rubrics.
Program/Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Professional Courses | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools 3 | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners 3 | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 3 | 1 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities 3 | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 3,4 | 1-3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 20 | |
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Track Requirements (see Track Requirements tab) | 61-71 | |
Degree Assessment
B-minus or better in student teaching and capstone courses; 2.75 cumulative university GPA; satisfactory performance on all Hallmark Assessment Tasks; Target performance or better on all rubrics.
Certification Assessment
Satisfactory dispositions assessment; passing scores on PRAXIS content and PLT exams; completion of degree requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Culminating Undergraduate Experience (Graduation requirement) | ||
| Requirement fulfilled by completing: | ||
EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 4 | |
- 1
Not required for transfer students with 24 credit hours or more. Students who successfully complete a first year experience course through another college may waive this requirement.
- 2
To complete the degree in the minimum number of hours listed, some hours from the General Education Requirements must be satisfied by courses defined by the unit and/or program. Using other courses to satisfy General Education requirements will require additional hours to complete the degree requirements (or decrease the listed electives).
- 3
Restricted to students admitted to the professional teacher education program.
- 4
Students following the course sequence in the 2024/2025, 2025/2026, and 2026/2027 catalogs will take EDTP 477 for 1 credit hour. Students following the course sequence in the 2023/2024 catalog and prior will take EDTP 477 for 3 credit hours.
Elementary Tracks
Single-Area Certification Tracks
Track in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood (Birth - Age 5)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRIEC
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDSP 472 | Student Teaching in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 12 |
| Early Childhood Education Courses | ||
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children | 3 |
| EDSP 300 | Creativity and the Young Child | 3 |
| EDSP 427 | Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development | 3 |
| EDSP 436 | Theories of Play | 3 |
| EDSP 437 | Infant/Toddler Instruction and Care | 3 |
| EDSP 438 | Emergent Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 439 | Guidance for Young Children | 3 |
| EDSP 542 | Guidance For Young Children Field Experience | 1 |
| EDSP 515 | Communication and Socialization in Early Childhood | 3 |
| EDSP 533 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 534 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum Field Experience | 1 |
| EDSP 583 | Early Childhood Special Education Assessment | 3 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDSP 585 | Families and Collaboration in IECE: Field Experience | 1 |
| Electives (must be approved by advisor) | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 61 | |
Track in Elementary P-5 (Individualized Studies)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRINS
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDTP 452 | Student Teaching II: Elementary Education | 6 |
| Education Courses | ||
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR 1 | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I 1 | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II 1 | 3 |
| Individualized Studies Courses | 18 | |
Students must develop an 18-hour curriculum plan in cooperation with their advisors. | ||
| General Elective | 2 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 64 | |
- 1
A minimum grade of C or better is required in MATH 150, MATH 151, and MATH 152.
Track in Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P-12)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRMDD
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDSP 471 | Student Teaching, MSD | 12 |
| Moderate/Severe Disabilities Courses | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities 1 | 3 |
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children 1 | 3 |
| EDSP 294 | Teaching Individuals with Physical, Health and Multiple Disabilities 1 | 3 |
| EDSP 395 | Autism: Science, Culture and Identity - SB 1 | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities 1 | 3 |
| EDSP 440 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Curriculum and Methods II | 3 |
| EDSP 443 | Instructional Methods for Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 444 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Practicum | 3 |
| EDSP 450 | Moderate and Severe Disabilities Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 447 | Teaching Mathematics to Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 510 | Legal Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| EDSP 520 | Assessment of Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 546 | Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| Electives | 7 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 61 | |
- 1
EDSP 240, EDSP 218, EDSP 260, EDSP 395, EDSP 422 should be completed prior to beginning professional program special education (EDSP) courses.
Dual Certification Tracks
Track in Elementary (P-5) and Interdisciplinary Early Childhood (Birth-Age 5)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRECE
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDSP 472 | Student Teaching in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 6 |
| Education Courses | ||
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR 1 | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I 1 | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II 1 | 3 |
| Early Childhood Education Courses | ||
| EDSP 300 | Creativity and the Young Child | 3 |
| EDSP 436 | Theories of Play | 3 |
| EDSP 437 | Infant/Toddler Instruction and Care | 3 |
| EDSP 439 | Guidance for Young Children | 3 |
| EDSP 515 | Communication and Socialization in Early Childhood | 3 |
| EDSP 533 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 534 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum Field Experience | 1 |
| EDSP 583 | Early Childhood Special Education Assessment | 3 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 69 | |
- 1
A minimum grade of C or better is required in MATH 150, MATH 151, and MATH 152.
Track in Elementary (P-5) and Learning and Behavior Disorders (P-12)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRELB
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDSP 470 | Student Teaching, LBD | 6 |
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| Education Courses | ||
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR 1 | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I 1 | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II 1 | 3 |
| Learning & Behavioral Disorder Courses | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 442 | Practicum: Learning and Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| EDSP 451 | Learning and Behavior Disorders Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 510 | Legal Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| EDSP 512 | Methods for Students with Learning and Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| EDSP 516 | Assessment Procedures for Students with Learning & Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 68 | |
Track in Elementary (P-5) and Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P-12)
Academic Plan Code(s): EREDBSRMSD
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Student Teaching Requirement | ||
| EDSP 471 | Student Teaching, MSD | 6 |
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| Education Courses | ||
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR 1 | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I 1 | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II 1 | 3 |
| Moderate/Severe Disabilities Courses | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities 2 | 3 |
| EDSP 440 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Curriculum and Methods II | 3 |
| EDSP 443 | Instructional Methods for Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 444 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Practicum | 3 |
| EDSP 450 | Moderate and Severe Disabilities Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 520 | Assessment of Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 546 | Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 71 | |
Flight Plan
Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (Birth - Age 5)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Quantitative Reasoning - QR | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Elective | 1 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 436 | Theories of Play | 3 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 300 | Creativity and the Young Child | 3 |
| EDSP 437 | Infant/Toddler Instruction and Care | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDSP 427 | Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development | 3 |
| EDSP 438 | Emergent Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 439 | Guidance for Young Children | 3 |
| EDSP 542 | Guidance For Young Children Field Experience | 1 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDSP 533 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 534 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum Field Experience | 1 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDSP 585 | Families and Collaboration in IECE: Field Experience | 1 |
| Hours | 14 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 515 | Communication and Socialization in Early Childhood | 3 |
| EDSP 583 | Early Childhood Special Education Assessment | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 472 | Student Teaching in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 12 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 120 | |
Elementary P-5 (Individualized Studies)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH (HIST 104 or HIST 105 recommended) | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II | 3 |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| General Elective | 2 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| Hours | 14 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| Elective as approved by advisor | 3 | |
| Hours | 14 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDTP 452 | Student Teaching II: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 120 | |
Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P-12)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Quantitative Reasoning - QR | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 294 | Teaching Individuals with Physical, Health and Multiple Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 395 | Autism: Science, Culture and Identity - SB | 3 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDSP 443 | Instructional Methods for Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 444 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Practicum | 3 |
| EDSP 520 | Assessment of Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| Hours | 12 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 440 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Curriculum and Methods II | 3 |
| EDSP 450 | Moderate and Severe Disabilities Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 546 | Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| EDSP 510 | Legal Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| Elective | 1 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 447 | Teaching Mathematics to Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 471 | Student Teaching, MSD | 12 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 120 | |
Elementary (P-5) and Interdisciplinary Early Childhood (Birth - Age 5)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH (HIST 104 or HIST 105 recommended) | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 300 | Creativity and the Young Child | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 436 | Theories of Play | 3 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 437 | Infant/Toddler Instruction and Care | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 439 | Guidance for Young Children | 3 |
| EDSP 515 | Communication and Socialization in Early Childhood | 3 |
| EDSP 583 | Early Childhood Special Education Assessment | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDSP 533 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 534 | Inclusive Early Childhood Curriculum Field Experience | 1 |
| EDSP 584 | Families and Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDSP 472 | Student Teaching in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 6 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 125 | |
Elementary (P-5) and Learning and Behavior Disorders (P-12)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH (HIST 104 or HIST 105 recommended) | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 442 | Practicum: Learning and Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| EDSP 512 | Methods for Students with Learning and Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| EDSP 516 | Assessment Procedures for Students with Learning & Behavior Disorders | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 451 | Learning and Behavior Disorders Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 510 | Legal Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| Hours | 14 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 470 | Student Teaching, LBD | 6 |
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 124 | |
Elementary (P-5) and Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P-12)
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| EDTP 101 | First-Year Experience | 1 |
| EDTP 201 | The Teaching Profession - SB | 3 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 150 | Introduction to Mathematics for Elementary Educators - QR | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Social & Behavioral Sciences Historical Perspective - SBH (HIST 104 or HIST 105 recommended) | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 240 | Introduction to Exceptional Children | 3 |
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 151 | Mathematics for Elementary Education I | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 260 | Classroom Behavior Management | 3 |
| EDTP 107 | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| EDTP 245 | Children's Literature - AH, P1 | 3 |
| EDTP 249 | Practicum 1 | 1 |
| EDTP 306 | Public Schools in America: Understanding our Past to Envision our Future | 3 |
| MATH 152 | Mathematics for Elementary Education II | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 218 | Technology for Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 422 | Transition Programs and Services for Children and Youth with Disabilities | 3 |
| EDTP 215 | The Art of Instruction | 3 |
| EDTP 279 | Practicum 2 | 1 |
| EDTP 311 | Introduction to Reading/Language Arts P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 328 | Building Learning Communities | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 443 | Instructional Methods for Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDSP 444 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Practicum | 3 |
| EDSP 520 | Assessment of Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| EDTP 322 | Social Studies Methods | 3 |
| EDTP 324 | Science Methods P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 339 | Practicum 3 | 1 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 440 | Moderate/Severe Disabilities Curriculum and Methods II | 3 |
| EDSP 450 | Moderate and Severe Disabilities Practicum II | 3 |
| EDSP 518 | Structured Literacy for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| EDSP 546 | Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication | 3 |
| EDTP 313 | Math Methods 1 | 3 |
| EDTP 389 | Practicum 4 | 2 |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| EDSP 345 | Special Populations in Schools | 3 |
| EDTP 320 | Methods for Teaching Reading/Language Arts, P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 333 | Math Methods 2 | 3 |
| EDTP 399 | Music, Art, and Motion in P-5 | 3 |
| EDTP 449 | Practicum 5 | 2 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities Global Perspectives - AHP2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| EDSP 471 | Student Teaching, MSD | 6 |
| EDTP 450 | Student Teaching I: Elementary Education | 6 |
| EDTP 477 | Capstone Student Teaching Seminar - CUE 1 | 1-3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 127 | |
- 1
Students following the course sequence in the 2024/2025, 2025/2026, and 2026/2027 catalogs will take EDTP 477 for 1 credit hour. Students following the course sequence in the 2023/2024 catalog and prior will take EDTP 477 for 3 credit hours.
The Flight Plan outlined above is intended to demonstrate one possible path to completing the degree within four years. Course selection and placement within the program may vary depending on course offerings and schedule, elective preferences, and other factors (study abroad, internship availability, etc.). Please consult your advisor for additional information about building a flight plan that works for you.
Degree Audit Report
Degree Audit reports illustrate how your completed courses fulfill the requirements of your academic plan, and which requirements are still outstanding. Degree audits also take transfer credits and test credits into account. "What-if" reports allow you to compare the courses you have completed in your current academic plan to the courses required in another academic plan. Should you have questions about either report, please consult with your academic advisor.
To create these reports:
- Log into your ULink account.
- Click on the Academic Progress tile.
- Select the appropriate report.
- To run a Degree Audit report, click on "View my Degree Audit."
- To create a What-if report, click on "What-if Advisement Report."
Click here to run a Degree Audit report or create a What-if report.
The Bachelor of Science in Early Elementary Education with the available tracks prepares students to meet the requirements for certification and/or licensure. If you plan to pursue professional licensure or certification you should first determine your state’s criteria for examination and licensure to see how/if our program meets those requirements prior to enrollment. We recommend that you also contact your state’s licensing board directly to verify that the requirements have not changed recently and to answer any questions especially those regarding additional requirements beyond the degree.
More information about certification or licensure is available at the following website: https://louisville.edu/about/departments/academic-planning-accountability/disclosures/professional-licensure.
For programs with an online option, more information about certification or licensure is available here:
https://online.louisville.edu/resources/compliance/license.
More about the BS in Elementary Education
CEHD Conceptual Framework: The conceptual framework focuses on three guiding principles – inquiry, action and advocacy – as these are learned in the classroom, applied through habitual and skillful practice, and internalized as a means of solving problems and improving the lives of children, families, and communities. The teacher education program develops teacher education candidates who go on to enhance the lives of others by becoming critical thinkers, problem solvers and professional leaders who advocate for the principles of social justice and equity.
Before applying, review the Educator Preparation Program page for admission requirements and teaching profession expectations.
Choose the track that best fits your career goals. Some tracks lead to a single certification, while others allow you to earn dual certification in Elementary Education and another teaching area. You may also be able to add certification in English, French, mathematics, science, social studies or Spanish.
- Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (birth - age 5) – dual certification with Elementary Education
- Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (birth - age 5) - single certification
- Individualized Studies - this track allows students to develop with their advisors a 27-hour curriculum plan
- Learning and Behavior Disorders (P-12) – dual certification with Elementary Education
- Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P-12) – dual certification with Elementary Education
- Moderate and Severe Disabilities (P - 12) - single certification
Graduates of the BS in Elementary Education are eligible to take the PRAXIS II exams for certification in Elementary Education (grades P-5).
Career Paths
- Elementary school teacher (P–5)
- Kindergarten teacher
- Private school teacher
- Intervention teacher
- Museum educator
- Youth program coordinator
Graduate Study
Many graduates continue their education in areas such as special education, literacy, school counseling, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership and English as a Second Language (ESL).
Starting Salary
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in teacher education can expect starting salaries of approximately $41,000 per year in Kentucky, depending on the school district and position.
TEACH Grant
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides up to $4,000 per year for eligible students preparing to teach in high-need fields at schools serving students from low-income families.
To be eligible, you must:
- Complete the FAFSA (financial need is not required).
- Be admitted to the professional phase of the teacher certification program.
- Score above the 75th percentile on a college admission test or maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.25.
Recipients must teach in a qualifying position for at least four years within eight years of completing the teacher certification program. If the service requirement is not met, the grant converts to a loan that must be repaid with interest.
For assistance with the BS in Elementary Education program, contact:
- Program questions: teacher@louisville.edu
- Admissions and application requirements: samantha.morris.1@louisville.edu
- Course registration and advising: edadvise@louisville.edu