Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (B.A.Ed.)

Program Description

The B.A.Ed. in Elementary Education with Special Education endorsement is a minimum 122 semester hours program that includes two concentration areas selected by the candidate in the areas of English, math, science, social studies, fine arts, foreign language and/or computers. The degree program is approved for a K-6 license in Elementary Education and a K-12 license in Mild/Moderate Disabilities. Candidates interested in additional endorsements, please see the Endorsement tab on the Teacher Education webpage. There are three phases for education majors: Phase I: Core Curriculum; Phase II: Teacher Education Program; and Phase III: Student Teaching. For more information go to the SAFE admission page.

During the professional education common-core coursework, teacher education candidates are required to observe and teach in selected classrooms, learning about effective teaching, developing professional dispositions working directly with practitioners and school students at varying grade and developmental levels. The Student Advising and Field Experience (SAFE) office works with school partners in establishing placement for these observations.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet these requirements:

  • 2.5 grade point average (entry admission for transfer students and change of major)
  • 2.75 grade point average (admission for Phase II: Teacher Education Program) and appropriate scores on either the ACT, SAT or CORE* (link to Phase II information is posted above under Program Description)

*Praxis Core Exemption: Students who provide proof of an ACT score of at least a 21 composite (or SAT equivalent; View the SAT Equivalency Scoring sheet for more information) OR have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a minimum of 60 hours of completed coursework are exempt from taking the Praxis CORE exam for admission to Phase II.

Career Opportunities

Candidates must take additional Praxis exams to qualify for licensure in Mississippi. Once licensed candidates will be highly qualified to teach all core subject grades K-6 and special education mild/moderate disabilities grades K-12. Candidates may also qualify for additional add-on endorsements in their concentration areas grades 7-12 or severe/profound disabilities K-12. For information on seeking licensure outside Mississippi, please review the Certification information.

Online/Regional Campus Options

The full program of study for the Elementary Education degree program with SPED endorsement is offered on the DeSoto, Oxford, and Tupelo campuses as well as the Booneville, Grenada, and Rankin Centers.

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