Elementary Education (K–6)
The Elementary Education program at The W prepares future teachers to lead classrooms in grades K–6. With a strong focus on literacy, math, science, and social studies, candidates build the knowledge and practical skills to meet the needs of diverse learners.
The program is structured in four Blocks, each combining coursework with field-based Residencies. This step-by-step design allows students to connect theory to practice in real classrooms every semester, culminating in a full-time internship as a teacher-in-training.
The demand for well-prepared elementary teachers remains steady across Mississippi and the nation. A K–6 license provides long-term career stability, state benefits, and a path to retirement, aligning graduates with the professional foundation shared by all licensed educators.
Courses are offered online or in person, with classroom-based practical experiences arranged in your own community. Our students are located across the region, and even around the world, and we work with schools where you live to create meaningful residency and internship opportunities. We know that grassroots, homegrown teachers are often the most effective, and our goal is to help you stay and serve where you are needed most.
Why Choose This Program?
- Comprehensive preparation across core subjects: literacy, math, science, and social studies.
- Step-sequenced Blocks with integrated coursework and residencies.
- Hands-on classroom experiences that progress each semester.
- Faculty mentorship and personalized support for education students.
- Licensure recommendation for K–6 teaching in Mississippi.
Career Outcomes
Graduates are well-prepared for steady and meaningful careers, including:
- Classroom Teaching: Licensed K–6 teacher in public schools with full state benefits and retirement. A K–6 license offers career steadiness, with strong demand for elementary educators statewide and nationwide.
- Private & Independent Schools: Teacher roles in elementary settings beyond the public system.
- Specialized Roles: Opportunities to add endorsements in Reading, Special Education, or subject areas for career advancement.
- Pathways Upward: Preparation for graduate study, school leadership, curriculum development, or advocacy in education.
The W Difference
Our Block-and-Residency model ensures students don’t just learn about teaching; they practice it continuously. By the time they enter their internship semester, candidates have already built confidence and skill in real classrooms, making them classroom-ready on day one. With flexible course delivery and community-based placements, The W equips graduates to serve where they are needed most.
Plan of Study
Core Required Courses (Minimum Grade of C)
- COM 101 Oral Communications
- EN 101 English Composition I
- EN 102 English Composition II
- MA 111 Modern Elementary Math I
- MA 112 Modern Elementary Math II
- MA 113 College Algebra (or higher)
Other Core Requirements
- Fine Art (History or Appreciation)
- GEO 101 World Geography
- History (2 courses)
- Literature (2 courses)
- Natural Science with Lab (2 courses)
- Philosophy
- PSY 206 Human Growth & Development
- Additional Science (with or without lab)
Block I Courses (Minimum Grade of C; ED 302 requires B)
- ED 200 Education as a Profession
- ED 204 Principles of Early Childhood Learning
- ED 301 Education Seminar I
- ED 302 Art & Science of Teaching (minimum grade of B)
- ED 306 Introduction to Special Education
- ED 311 Education Residency I
- ED 365 Integrating Reading & Writing Across the Curriculum
Block II Courses (Minimum Grade of C)
- ED 260 Educational Psychology
- ED 297 Instructional Technology
- ED 318 Strengthening Family & Community Connections
- ED 361 Early Literacy Instruction I
- ED 367 Education Residency II
- ED 390 Classroom Management & Student Accommodations & Interventions
Block III Courses (Minimum Grade of C)
- ED 362 Early Literacy Instruction II
- ED 405 Teaching Mathematics in Elementary & Middle School
- ED 410 Teaching Social Studies in Elementary & Middle School
- ED 412 Teaching Science in Elementary & Middle School
- ED 435 Education Residency III
- ED 452 Educational Measurement
Block IV Courses (Minimum Grade of C)
- ED 406 Teacher Internship: Elementary Education
- ED 466 Diagnosing & Assessing Reading Difficulties in Children
Contact Us
Have questions about admissions or licensure? Connect with our program navigator, Christi Dillon, for step-by-step guidance.
education@muw.edu
After completing all coursework and passing all licensure exams required by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), graduates will be recommended for a Mississippi teaching license or endorsements. Once licensed in Mississippi, teachers may apply for licensure in other states through reciprocity agreements.
