Teaching — Elementary Education (MA)

Why earn a master’s degree in Teaching?

The master's degree in Teaching prepares students to work with children in first through sixth grade to help them grow and learn. To become an Elementary Education teacher, you need to be proficient in a variety of subject areas, including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts, health, and physical education. Elementary Education is an ideal career path for people who are interested in developing young minds and who want to have a positive impact on the social and intellectual development of children.

Why earn a master’s degree in Teaching focused on Elementary Education at AU?

This program provides a pathway for aspiring educators who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field to obtain their Professional Educator License (PEL) with an Elementary Education Endorsement (Grades 1-6). The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)-approved program allows candidates to work as a full-time teacher of record with a mentor teacher while completing coursework and pursuing an Illinois PEL. Students must obtain an Educator Licensure with Stipulations endorsed for Alternative Educators [ELS(APE)] through ISBE to become a teacher of record and pursue their degree at AU.

Program quick facts

Program length: Two years (9 courses)
Program type: Alternative licensure program
Location options: Cohorts available on the main AU campus
Tuition: View current rates

Program structure

32 semester hours
Coursework is completed while teaching
Courses meet one night a week for eight weeks
Student teaching requirements are fulfilled by the teacher of record position

Prepare for your future

This program immerses you in a combination of coursework, classroom teaching experience, embedded coaching, and continuous professional development to prepare you to teach in an Illinois public school setting.

Career opportunities

By successfully completing the MA in Teaching — Elementary Education program, you will earn your master’s degree from AU and be eligible to exchange your ELS(APE) for your PEL.