Get the Classroom Experience You Need

Student teacher working with students.When you step into your own elementary classroom for the first time, you’ll be ready. That’s because our Bachelor of Arts in elementary education program at UM-Dearborn includes extensive experience in elementary classrooms, reflecting our belief that teaching is a craft perfected with practice.

You’ll have early field work in elementary schools, two semesters of part-time teaching during apprenticeships, and a full semester of student teaching. By the time you graduate, you’ll have taught for hundreds of hours, giving you the experience you need to succeed in your own classroom.

Where An Elementary Education Degree Will Take You

Your degree will prepare you to teach at the elementary school level. From there, you can get more education to teach at other grade levels. Your degree also helps prepare you to move beyond the classroom into roles such as instructional coordinator, counselor, or principal, among others.
 

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is meant to be averages across the United States. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

$61,620 Median Salary

Elementary School Teacher

Overall employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032.

Despite limited employment growth, about 109,000 openings for kindergarten and elementary school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$49,690 Median Salary

Preschool and Childcare Center Director

Employment of preschool and childcare center directors is projected to decline 3 percent from 2022 to 2032.

Despite declining employment, about 4,600 openings for preschool and childcare center directors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$62,950 Median Salary

Special Education Teacher

Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032.

Despite limited employment growth, about 33,500 openings for special education teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$31,460 Median Salary

Tutors

Employment of tutors is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 39,100 openings for tutors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

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Application Deadlines

UM-Dearborn has rolling admissions throughout the year, and deadlines depend on your student type. Apply early, priority consideration for financial aid and scholarships may be given to earlier applicants.

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Tuition

Get started early on your financial planning for college. Complete the net price calculator to get an estimate of your cost to attend UM-Dearborn.

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Go Blue Guarantee

Students at UM-Dearborn are eligible for the Go Blue Guarantee - University of Michigan’s landmark promise of free tuition for high-achieving in-state undergraduate students from qualifying backgrounds. Major financial support is available for students who do not fully qualify.

Paying for College

Student Teaching through UM-Dearborn

Become an elementary teacher in the state of Michigan with engaging coursework and student teaching placements.

How to Get Involved

UM-Dearborn's vibrant campus life offers numerous student-run organizations, clubs, and activities. Engage with fellow future educators, join student-led educational forums, or participate in community tutoring programs. Getting involved will enrich your university life and enhance your teaching skills as you learn with your peers.

Next Steps

Become a part of the UM-Dearborn community and put your dreams to work for you.