Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Grades K-6)

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The Ministry of Teaching
The United States is in dire need of teachers. There are, by some estimates, 500,000 vacancies in the field. By 2020, half of the baby-boomers will retire, creating an even greater demand for certified teachers. Yet not only are the ranks of teachers dwindling, but technology and secular thinking is drastically changing the world from the one of previous generations. More than ever, our country needs Godly teachers willing to teach children the difference between right and wrong as well as the skills they'll need to flourish in the classrooms of today and the workplaces of tomorrow. To this aim, our professors teach with the conviction that education, and especially elementary education, is ministry. We know that children are not simply containers into which we pour knowledge, but they have spiritual and emotional needs that, if not met, can inhibit their learning and development. Through course work, Southeastern's faith-building environment, and extensive time spent teaching in classrooms, you will be prepared for lifelong ministry as a kindergarten through sixth-grade educator.

Building the Foundation
Southeastern's elementary education program begins with our Christ-centered liberal arts (general education) core curriculum, where you develop an understanding and appreciation of God and His creation, human creativity and reason, and our place of responsibility as stewards in the world God has made. As you forge links between what you've learned in the core and the more specialized courses in your major, our hope is that you also begin to relate all that you learn to your life and your faith.

The Road to Mastery
Within the elementary education program itself, you won't have to wait until you graduate and land a job to understand what it takes to be a teacher. Teaching is a hands-on ministry, and Southeastern believes that allowing you to practice the craft in real classrooms through ongoing field studies is the best way to prepare you to manage, teach and assess learners of different ages and learning styles. At Southeastern, you also will have the opportunity to complete the culmination of the program - your student teaching - in a local classroom.