Elementary Education Concentration (LAEL)

A Degree in Liberal Studies

This program satisfies the requirements of the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education Elementary Education Transfer Compact for transfer to a state college or university bachelor degree program. Elementary school teachers play a vital role in the development of children, introducing them to numbers, language, science, and social studies. They facilitate student learning through interactive class discussions, educational activities, "hands-on" learning, and one-on-one assistance. The need for qualified teachers continues to grow because of retirements, increasing student numbers, and demands for smaller class sizes.

Campus/format: This program can be completed during the day or evening at the Gardner Campus.

Helpful hints: Students should consult with a transfer advisor early to ensure that they choose a combination of liberal arts and education courses that transfer to the four-year colleges and universities of their choice.

Transfer options: This program qualifies for MassTransfer.* Completion of this program will meet the Massachusetts Elementary Education Transfer Compact (some restrictions apply; check with your advisor or transfer planning services). Transfer Agreements exist with Becker College, Charter Oak State College, and the University of Phoenix. A partnership exists with Amherst College. Visit MWCC’s transfer planning services website: http://transfer.mwcc.edu

Special requirements: Most four-year colleges and universities (including all Mass public institutions) require satisfactory completion of the Communication and Literacy section of the MA Tests of Educator Licensure (MTEL) prior to entrance to junior-level courses. The exam is NOT a prerequisite to enter MWCC's program. Students may be able to transfer into bachelor degree education programs, but may not be able to take upper-level education courses until they pass the exam. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations.

Career options: After earning a bachelor’s degree and meeting Mass Department of Education teacher requirements, graduates can pursue careers as teachers in grades 1-6.

Earning potential: $42,812 - $60,831 per year, for an entry-level teacher with a bachelor’s degree who has met Mass Department of Education requirements. Salaries increase substantially with experience and education level.

Elective courses by abbreviation

Program Competencies

Upon graduation from this program, students shall have the ability to:

1. Demonstrate competence in written and oral communication in English.
2. Demonstrate competence in problem solving, scientific modes of inquiry, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking.
3. Demonstrate competence in understanding historic and social processes.
4. Demonstrate competence in the use of modern technology to access, evaluate, and apply information.
5. Demonstrate competence in assessment of aesthetic and ethical standards in a diverse local and global environment.
6. Demonstrate competence in career planning, health management, and lifelong learning.

Technical Standards*

*general information about technical standards and accommodation.

Students entering this program must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

1. Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
2. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.