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2018-2019 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Elementary Teacher Certification (General Education)

Michigan elementary standard teaching certification allows the holder to teach any subject in kindergarten through fifth grade; major subjects in sixth through eighth; all subjects in kindergarten through eighth in self-contained classrooms. In addition to degree requirements, candidates must complete the teaching major, minor, and education major program.

1. Teaching Major Elementary Certification

The Michigan State Board of Education sets elementary education standards that ensure teachers are prepared with depth and breadth of content knowledge. Students pursuing an elementary standard teaching certificate may select from the following four state approved major programs:

  • Integrated science
  • Mathematics
  • Group social studies
  • Language arts

In addition to selecting one of the listed teachable majors, education candidates must complete requirements for the elementary teaching minor and the education major program for elementary certification. Students should meet with their advisor before selecting courses for the elementary minor.

Website: www.gvsu.edu/coe

2. Requirements for an Elementary Teaching Minor Elementary Certification

Candidates must complete the following 31-credit program. At least one field semester must be completed in a multicultural setting.

a. English

b. Mathematics

Elementary candidates must take each of the following courses, except the course listed in their chosen content major area:

c. Fine Arts

d. Language Arts

e. Science

f. Physical Education/Health

g. Social Studies

3. Requirements for the Education Major Program - Elementary Certification

Candidates must complete the following 39-credit education major. At least one field semester must be completed in a multicultural setting.

Prior to admission to undergraduate teacher education:

Course 1 - This course is taken before OR after admission to the College of Education. It must be completed before student teaching.

Course 2 - This course is taken after admission to the College of Education. It must be completed before student teaching.

Teacher assisting semester:

Student teaching semester:

(may be taken after EDI 430 but before certification).



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