Elementary Education

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction/Literacy Studies, Social and Cultural Foundations, Educational Leadership Studies offers opportunities for graduate study, teacher certification and research leading to a master's degree with initial certification. This program prepares individuals to become educators in the classroom. The primary purposes of the graduate programs in this department are to provide increased knowledge, skills and professional competencies for licenses related to each specialty area in the department (Curriculum and Instruction/Literacy Studies, Social and Cultural Foundations, Educational Leadership Studies).

Career Profile

Overall employment of schoolteachers is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations. Projected employment growth varies among individual teaching occupations. Job openings for all teachers are expected to increase as many teachers reach retirement age. Employment of special education teachers is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations due to legislation emphasizing training and employment for individuals with disabilities; technological advances resulting in more survivors of accidents and illnesses; and growing public interest in individuals with special needs. Employment is distributed geographically with population shifts.

Program Application Requirements

Additional Application Information

One-page goal statement, containing professional experiences, and career ambitions.

Program Application Test Requirements

Application Deadlines

Fall Deadline

Spring Deadline

Summer Deadline

English Proficiency Requirements

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Learn more about our English language proficiency requirements.

Accreditation Information

WVU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.