WCU Program: Elementary Education with MA in Education
Accelerated Degree

Elementary Education

Elementary Education with MA in Education

Part of: Education Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: Elementary Education

Licensure: Teacher Licensure

Part of: Education Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: Elementary Education

Licensure: Teacher Licensure

Streamline your journey toward a master's.

This accelerated program enables students to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Education within five years. The program is structured as follows:​

Years 1–3: Undergraduate Studies

Students focus on completing their core courses. Additionally, students undertake general education requirements and electives to fulfill the bachelor’s degree criteria.

Year 4: Licensure Preparation

Students engage in education-focused coursework in the fourth year and begin their clinical residency. This residency involves collaborative teaching experiences, allowing students to apply pedagogical knowledge in real classroom settings. Successful completion prepares students for initial teacher licensure in Colorado.

Year 5: Graduate Studies

The final year is dedicated to advanced education courses, leading to completion of the Master of Arts in Education. Students may choose an emphasis such as K-12 Online Teacher Leadership, Teacher Leadership, or Reading Leadership, further enhancing their expertise and career readiness.

Elementary Education Requirements

Accelerated Degree
Licensure

Accelerated Degree programs let students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. After an accelerated undergraduate study, students begin graduate courses, saving time and money. This fast-track option builds skills and experience, helping students start their careers sooner.

A licensure complements a degree and is awarded by entities other than Western. Often awarded by the state for teaching, it is a public and professional assurance that state teaching standards are met and the student is prepared to teach.

After Undergraduate Core Classes

After you have completed the undergraduate portion of your coursework, you apply for the teaching placement and the graduate program. Learn more about application requirements, scholarships, and more.

Scholarships

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Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Crawford Hall 101
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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