Elementary Education BS

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  2. Undergraduate Degree Programs
  3. Elementary Education BS

Touch a life forever, with our Elementary Education bachelor's degree.

Meghan LaFlamme, Elementary Education BS Student

Focus on elementary and special education with RIC's Elementary Education BS.

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We equip you with the skills and classroom experience needed to meet the growing demand for teachers across the country. Graduates of RIC's Elementary Education Bachelor of Science (BS) degree are licensed to teach Grades 1–6 and are uniquely prepared to work with culturally and linguistically diverse students, including those with exceptionalities. Unlike the BA track, the BS degree provides specialized preparation for careers in special education, one of the nation's most in-demand fields.

Teacher working with student with down syndrome

High-Demand Elementary Education Careers

  • Special Education Teacher
  • Special Education Administrator
  • Early Intervention Specialist
  • Instructional Coordinator
  • Advocacy Manager
  • Behavior Analyst

Why Earn an Elementary Education Bachelor's Degree at Rhode Island College?

  • Elementary Education degree holders are qualified to teach Grades 1-6 in both elementary education and special education, including culturally and linguistically diverse students with exceptionalities.
  • Elementary Education majors choose one of three concentrations: mild to moderate disabilities (for teaching grades 1-6), severe intellectual disabilities (for teaching preschool to age 22), or the combination of both mild to moderate and severe intellectual disabilities.
  • Topics covered include: literacy intervention; social, emotional and behavioral learning; ESL instruction; educational psychology; specialized language instruction; and foundations and strategies for teaching all learners.
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We're thrilled that you're interested in Rhode Island College and we want to make sure that nothing stands in your way of pursuing a RIC degree. Just let us know how we can help you with your next steps.

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The RIC Advantage

The Feinstein School of Education and Human Development at RIC is a nationally recognized leader in the field and has a legacy of producing award-winning educators.

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Our beautiful 180-acre campus is just 40 minutes from the beach, 1 hour from Boston & 3 hours from NYC.

Our Elementary Education Faculty

Our Special Education Faculty

Hear from the Dean

Carol Cummings

Carol Cummings

“I hope that you will boldly join our over 12,000 School of Education alumni. Rooted in the values of equity, diversity and social advocacy, Rhode Island College was founded in 1854 specifically to train future teachers. You could be one of them!”

– Dean of the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development

Our Value Recognized

Program Details

Course Information

Please Note: There is no longer a secondary admissions process for this program. Applicants only need to apply through our general Admissions & Financial Aid processes.

Course Descriptions

General Education

All degree programs require the completion of one 3-4 credit course in each of the nine General Education categories and the completion of at least 40 total credits of General Education courses. The General Education Program provides a foundation for deeper study in a wide range of academic disciplines, enabling students to develop the skills and habits of mind necessary for full participation in an increasingly complex world.

General Education at RIC
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Take the Next Step!

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Department of Elementary Education

We offer accredited academic programs that prepare teachers to function effectively in early childhood and elementary school teaching positions.

Department of Special Education

The Department of Special Education is designed for educational professionals interested in the teaching, learning and human development of individuals with special needs.

  • 401-456-8024
  • Horace Mann Hall 140, 346 RI College Rd, Providence, RI 02908
Carolyn Obel-Omia

Dr. Carolyn H. Obel-Omia

Professor

Dr. Cara McDermott-Fasy

Professor