Follow your passion for working with and teaching children while learning to encourage, guide and inspire K-8 students as an elementary teacher.
As an elementary education major at USD, you will develop the knowledge and skills needed to have a lasting impact on elementary and middle school learners as a K-8 teacher. This four-year program culminates in a full year of residency, meaning you will graduate with a wealth of hands-on experiences that will set you apart after graduation.
Prepare to motivate, support, advocate and guide children in your own classroom as an elementary education major at USD.
The B.S.Ed. in elementary education prepares you to become a K-8 teacher. The program includes valuable field experiences, and the curriculum provides you with a rich knowledge base in methods, integrated literacy and various content areas. A technology endorsement is embedded in this program, equipping you to teach and lead in a 21st century classroom.
An early childhood emphasis may be the right fit for you if you want to work with young children. The classes in this program will provide you with knowledge about how to best support children and their families, including guidance on developmentally appropriate practices and experience teaching in a kindergarten setting.
The B.S.Ed. in elementary education prepares you to become a K-8 teacher. The program includes valuable field experiences, and the curriculum provides you with a rich knowledge base in methods, integrated literacy and various content areas. A technology endorsement is embedded in this program, equipping you to teach and lead in a 21st century classroom.
This unique double major not only equips you with the expertise to support and instruct students with special needs but also positions you as an exceptional candidate for sought-after teaching roles in high-demand areas. You can graduate in four years and earn a South Dakota Teaching Certificate with Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education endorsements.
You can choose an accelerated option when specializing in advanced specialist in disabilities. If you are a current USD undergraduate student who would like to begin a master's degree while completing your bachelor's degree, you may apply and begin the program after the completion of 90 undergraduate credit hours.
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Stand out with a second major in Special Education – all while graduating in 4 years! USD offers hands-on learning: research labs, coaching techniques, internships, conferences. Maximize your potential without sacrificing time!
As a student at USD, the opportunities available to you extend beyond the classroom. Explore your interests, find your community and experience your education to the fullest extent through the following opportunities.
There are plenty of ways you can get involved as a student in the School of Education at USD. Whether you want to serve the community of Vermillion, work with children who have special needs, promote literacy or explore another interest related to education, you'll be able to find the right organization for you.
Enrich your education and see the world by participating in one of our many study abroad experiences. Here are a few benefits of studying abroad during your time at USD:
A unique part of your USD education is access to undergraduate research opportunities. As an education student at USD, you will have the chance to explore your interests and conduct innovative research with the support of professors who care about your success. Grants and travel funding are available through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.
The Division of Teacher Residency & Education is focused on preparing effective, responsive teachers who can meet the needs of all students in today's schools. Through unique features such as a robust yearlong residency, an emphasis on technology and curriculum that recognizes a variety of learners, our division offers an enriching education for educators and leaders.
The School of Education offers resources and support for you in the Center for Student and Professional Services (CSPS). Our faculty and staff are committed to preparing you with resources to help you excel personally, academically and professionally.
At USD, you will gain the real-world experience and skills schools are looking for.
Our graduates are highly sought-after because they bring such a wealth of experiences to the classroom; by the time you graduate, you will have experience in at least three schools and at two or more grade levels – including a full year of teaching experience incorporated into your four-year program. These hands-on experiences prepare you to graduate as a highly-effective teacher with a wealth of knowledge and a variety of sought after skills.
Learn more about tuition and fees for undergraduate students and see how your out-of-pocket costs at USD compare to those at other colleges and universities. Visit the Undergraduate Tuition & Costs Detailed page for program specific costs and fees.
Navigating options for how to pay for college can be challenging, but you are not alone. The Office of Financial Aid will work with you and your family to explore how you can make your college education even more affordable.
USD awards nearly $9.5 million in scholarships each year. View our scholarships to see which ones you may qualify for and how you can apply.
USD's School of Education has provided continued support throughout my academic experience and I couldn't be more thankful. The faculty has provided opportunities that are second-to-none, including the year-long residency program that provides a substantial hands-on experience.
Carter Larson
B.S.Ed. Elementary Education '22
Vermillion, South Dakota
