The Elementary Education/Liberal Studies Major provides a balanced program of liberal arts courses in a variety of academic fields, a planned sequence of professional courses, and practical field experiences that culminate in an extended teaching internship experience. Completion of the program qualifies graduates for Maryland State Department Certification in Elementary Education. Each student works closely with an academic advisor to ensure that the student obtains all the credits needed for the degree, as well as the requirements of the State Department of Education for Certification in Elementary Education. Traditional undergraduate students interested in Elementary Education are encouraged to declare the Elementary Education/Liberal Studies Major in spring semester of the first year.
For students in CAUS, the practical field experiences, including the teaching internship, are the only parts of the Program of Study offered during the day. These must be taken during the academic year when elementary schools are in session. The teaching internship must be completed in the fall semester.
Required Courses for a Major in Elementary Education/Liberal Studies
Liberal Arts courses in the Major are exclusive of those required for General Education.
- Literature (6)
- American literature
- World literature
- History (3)
- U.S. History (if World History was selected for general education) or
- Non-U.S. History (if American History was selected for general education)
- Mathematics (9)
- Natural Sciences (8/9)*
- Biological science with lab
- Physical science with lab
- Social sciences (6)
- Geography and
- One of Economics, Psychology, Political Science OR Sociology
- Fine arts (3)
- Art (if Music was selected for general education) OR
- Music (if Art was selected for general education)
*Traditional undergraduate students take three four-credit science courses; College of Adult Undergraduate Studies students take four three-credit science courses.
Professional Courses
Transportation is required for methods labs, field experiences and internships.
Certification in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Traditional Undergraduate students in Elementary and Secondary Education Programs of Study who also wish to earn Certification in ESOL complete the following additional courses:
The following additional professional preparation courses also are required: