Undergraduate Degree in Elementary Education with UF Online
Elementary educators shape the future one student at a time. Make a lasting impact with an online Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education.
The Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education at the University of Florida is designed for aspiring educators ready to make a difference in Florida’s K-6 classrooms. This fully online, competency-based program equips students with the essential skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to become effective elementary school teachers. Through job-embedded, practical coursework, students have real-world teaching experiences while completing their studies with the flexibility of UF’s top-ranked online education.
Please note, students must live in Florida and be able to complete practicum and internships in a Florida public school.
With practicum placements and full-time internships built into the program, students gain firsthand experience in Florida public schools, preparing them for a seamless transition into teaching jobs. Whether you are a career-changer, paraprofessional, or first-time college student, this state-approved program leads to eligibility for professional certification in Elementary Education (grades K-6). With dedicated faculty support, university navigators, and strong partnerships with school districts across Florida, graduates are well-prepared for success in the classroom.
Elementary Education Teaching Credentials
Students who complete the program are eligible for professional certification in Elementary Education (grades K-6) and for the following Florida credentials:
Endorsement: English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Effectively communicate with students whose home language is not standard English.
Endorsement: Reading
Employing the latest evidence-based strategies to improve reading comprehension and retention.
Admissions Requirements
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Career Tracks and Opportunities
What professions will a major in Elementary Education help prepare you for?
A Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education from the University of Florida Online prepares students for rewarding careers as certified elementary school teachers (K-6) in Florida. Graduates will be well-positioned to enter the workforce immediately, with the Florida teacher shortage creating high demand for qualified educators.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as:
- Elementary school teacher (K-6) in Florida public and private schools
- Instructional coach or curriculum specialist
- Education consultant or intervention specialist
Please visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or Career One Stop for additional suggestions on further career pathways and opportunities.
Note: Students must pass a Level II criminal background check prior to enrollment in the upper-division program.
Admissions Requirements
- If you have 0-11 transferable college credits, review the Freshman admissions requirements.
- If you have 12-59 transferable credits, review the Lower Division Transfer admission requirements.
Upper division transfer applicants (students with 60 or more college credits earned) are considered for Fall admission only. This program is not designed for individuals who want to earn a second bachelor’s degree. Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree are encouraged to explore the College of Education’s award-winning one-year master’s degree program.
Applicants must have an overall GPA of 2.6 or higher, hold an Associate of Arts or have completed a parallel General Education program, and have completed the following common prerequisite course with a grade of B or better:
Introduction to the Teaching Profession (EDF 1005 or EDF 2005)
- A course titled Intro to Education/Intro to Teaching Profession (or anything similar) completed at a private or out-of-state institution may be considered as a substitute for EDF 1005.
The UF College of Education strongly prefers that upper division transfer applicants complete a course in Human Growth and Development or Developmental Psychology (DEP 2004 and other course numbers) prior to admission.
Additionally, upper division transfer applicants must submit a standardized test score, earned within the ten (10) years preceding the application for teaching certification:
- Option 1: Passing scores on the General Knowledge Test from the Florida Teacher Certification Examination
- Option 2: Minimum scores, as specified below, from one of the following test options:
- SAT
Reading and Writing = 560
Mathematics = 540 - ACT
Reading = 23
English = 22
Mathematics = 22 - CLT
Sum of the Verbal Reasoning and Grammar/Writing Sections = 49
Quantitative Reasoning = 20 - GRE
Quantitative Reasoning = 147
Verbal Reasoning = 151
Writing = 4.0
- SAT
*Note:
- All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of B or better.
- Unsuccessful attempts in prerequisite courses may lower competitiveness.
- Unsuccessful attempts in additional courses in the desired major may lower competitiveness.
- Out of state courses used to meet prerequisites may need to be evaluated by the appropriate department upon admission.
Why Choose UF Online for Your Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education Degree?
At the University of Florida, our passion goes beyond our walls – and so do our opportunities.
UF Online’s Elementary Education program prepares future educators with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to lead in today’s classrooms. Developed with a grant from the Florida Department of Education, this innovative program provides a flexible learning schedule that allows students to integrate their professional responsibilities with their education. With competency-based learning, hands-on practicum experiences, and direct connections to Florida school districts, students graduate fully prepared for rich careers as certified elementary school teachers.
Designed for students whose commitments make traditional campus attendance impractical, our online program stands at the forefront, providing flexible academic options with the same elite faculty and rigor that makes us a leading university and top research institution. We connect people with opportunities, remove barriers and set the standard for online higher education. UF Online graduates earn the same elite degree they would receive on campus, and they will be at the top of the list for the best employers in the country.
