Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Type
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Campus
- School
- Peter and Gredel Walpot School of Education
Program Overview
The Elementary Education program at Truett McConnell University is designed to prepare future teachers to serve students in preschool through fifth grade through a combination of strong academic coursework, extensive field experience, and a Christ-centered worldview. Candidates develop foundational knowledge in subjects such as literacy, mathematics, science, and the arts while learning effective instructional strategies and classroom management skills. A key feature of the program is its emphasis on hands-on learning, with students completing over 1,000 hours of field placements and internships to build real-world teaching experience. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to integrate faith with practice, equipping them to become knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective educators in diverse classroom settings.
Why Study Elementary Education at TMU?
Studying at Truett McConnell University offers students a unique blend of academic excellence, intentional community, and a Christ-centered foundation. TMU provides small class sizes and personalized instruction, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with faculty who are deeply invested in their success. The university emphasizes hands-on learning through field experiences and internships, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers. In addition, TMU integrates faith into every aspect of the educational experience, equipping students not only with knowledge and skills, but also with purpose and a strong ethical framework to lead and serve in their professions.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Truett McConnell University—particularly in education—pursue a variety of meaningful career paths centered on teaching, leadership, and service. Most Elementary Education majors go on to become certified classroom teachers in public and private schools (PreK–5), while others pursue roles such as special education teachers, instructional coaches, or school leaders after gaining experience. Some graduates continue their education in graduate programs to expand opportunities in areas like curriculum and instruction, literacy, or administration.
Program Features
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The Truett McConnell University School of Education is committed to a hands-on, practice-based approach that prepares teacher candidates to confidently lead classrooms from day one. Candidates complete extensive field experiences throughout their program, gaining more than 1,000 hours of classroom experience before graduation. From early observation placements to senior-year residencies and student teaching, candidates are actively engaged in real-world educational settings that allow them to apply instructional strategies, classroom management skills, assessment practices, and differentiated instruction in authentic learning environments.
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Faculty within the Truett McConnell University School of Education bring decades of combined experience in P–12 education, school leadership, curriculum development, literacy instruction, special education, and higher education. Professors are dedicated to mentoring future educators through personalized support, practical instruction, and faith-integrated teaching practices. With over 300 years of combined educational experience, faculty members provide candidates with valuable insight into current educational practices while modeling professionalism, servant leadership, and excellence in teaching.
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The Truett McConnell University School of Education maintains strong partnerships with local school systems and educational leaders throughout Northeast Georgia and beyond. These collaborative relationships provide candidates with meaningful field placements, mentorship opportunities, and diverse classroom experiences across multiple grade levels and subject areas. Local principals and school districts frequently request TMU teacher candidates for placements due to the university’s reputation for producing prepared, professional, and highly capable future educators.
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The Truett McConnell University School of Education is dedicated to preparing graduates for immediate success in the teaching profession. Candidates graduate with extensive classroom experience, strong instructional knowledge, and practical skills aligned with Georgia educational standards and expectations. The School of Education proudly maintains a strong job placement rate, with graduates serving in schools across Georgia and surrounding states. Seniors are also given opportunities to participate in teacher residency programs and approved long-term substitute positions, further strengthening their readiness to transition successfully into full-time teaching careers.
Program Faculty
TMU's School of Education is filled with many talented and experienced professors who are passionate about their students and helping them fulfill their calling.
Taylor Gilleland
Chair, School of Education; Field Placement Coordinator; Assistant Professor, Education
Amy Kinson
Administrative Assistant and Academic Advisor, Education
Dr. Malinda Apanay
Lecturer, Education
Shann Cash
Adjunct Professor, Education
Dr. Patsy Lewis
Associate Professor, Education
Susan Sargent
Lecturer, Education
Jenni Shepard
VP for Student Life and Athletics; Associate Professor, Education
Stacie Ward
Lecturer, Education
