Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education: Communication Arts and Literature

Department of TEACHER EDUCATION

Equipping Young Minds

Crown’s Elementary Education degree is designed for those who are called to make a lasting impact on the lives of children through teaching. The program is accredited by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) and prepares future educators for Minnesota teacher licensure. Students are prepared to teach in kindergarten through sixth grade, and the program is structured to meet Minnesota K-6 licensure requirements. In addition, students earn licensure to teach Communication Arts and Literature in grades 5-8.

Why study Elementary Education at Crown?

Gain extensive classroom experience through clinical placements that exceed accreditation requirements, helping you build confidence and develop practical teaching skills before entering your own classroom.
Learn from experienced faculty who combine K-12 expertise with Christ-centered mentorship and are invested in your personal and professional growth.
Benefit from Crown’s strong partnerships with local schools and educational organizations, where many graduates receive teaching opportunities before completing the program.

Clinical-Based Learning

Teacher candidates gain extensive experience through classroom observations, clinical experiences, and student teaching in diverse school settings. These experiences allow students to connect educational theory to practice and develop the skills and confidence needed for their future classrooms.

Faith Integration

Faculty members intentionally incorporate a biblical worldview into every course at Crown College. Future educators are empowered to integrate faith into their academic pursuits, professional practice, and personal development.

Meaningful Work

Future educators are prepared to make a lasting impact on students, families, and communities by approaching the classroom with integrity, compassion, and creativity. They learn alongside faculty and peers who are passionate about education and committed to Christ-centered teaching.

Aside from the community and the people who are just so awesome, I love how well Crown integrates faith into learning in every class, whether it’s the Bible classes, where you’re learning about the Lord, or the education classes specific to your major.

Evie Dawson

Careers

Elementary School Teacher K-6
Middle School English Teacher 5-8
Curriculum Developer

Preparation for Advanced Degrees

Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Arts in Education (MA.Ed.)
Education Specialist (Ed.S.)

Meet the Dean

Meet the Faculty

Dr. Alexis Jones

Associate Professor of History + Teacher Education

Kristin Behrens

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education

Pamela Banwell

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education

Concentrations

View the Academic Catalog for a full list of admission requirements and program completion requirements.

Viewbook: Life at Crown

Crown College Lookbook

Everything you need to become a teacher in Minnesota, all in one place—and all for free. Sign up with TeachMN to access:

1-on-1 expert advice and group coaching sessions all about becoming a licensed Minnesota teacher.
Custom tips, how-to guides, and resume templates for applying to Crown College.
$100 fee reimbursements when it comes time to apply.
Exclusive scholarship and financial aid opportunities.

Preview of Courses

EED 349C - Elementary Literacy Clinical Experience

This course is a clinical experience in which students apply theory to practice in an authentic elementary classroom setting under the guidance of an experienced teacher. Developing effective planning, teaching and guidance skills, professional behavior, and enthusiasm for teaching are also intended outcomes, with an emphasis on literacy development. Meeting standards for licensure is accomplished through various assignments.

MED 432 - Communication Arts and Literature Methods: Middle School

A study of the purposes, methods, planning, instruction, and evaluation techniques for teaching in middle school classrooms. The course provides new research, strategies, and philosophies to best meet the needs of young adolescents. A corresponding clinical field experience augments classroom readings, discussions, and activities. An emphasis is placed on developmentally appropriate practices, reading across the curriculum, diverse student needs, and multilingual learners.

EDU 316 - Educating Diverse Learners

This course provides a foundational understanding of diverse learners, including students with disabilities, students with gifts and talents, and students at risk. Teacher candidates will explore the challenges diverse learners experience with learning, literacy, and social issues, as well as historical perspectives, educational law, parent rights, and roles within the community. Practical academic and behavior strategies for working with diverse learners will be emphasized. Ten clock hours of field experience at an approved school site are required.

FAQs

What is the Faculty to Student Ratio?

Our faculty to student ratio is 17:1. We intentionally aim to keep our class sizes small. This allows us to maintain academic excellence and strong relationships between faculty and students. At Crown College, every student is a person and not just another number.

How will my transfer credits be evaluated?

Transfer credits are evaluated according to Crown’s transfer policies. Teacher Education coursework is reviewed by the Teacher Education Department to ensure it meets applicable Minnesota licensure standards. Course descriptions, syllabi, transcripts, and field experience documentation may be requested. While some Teacher Education coursework may transfer, required student teaching must be completed through Crown’s Teacher Education program. For more information, visit Transferology or Crown’s Transfer Credit policy in the Academic Catalog. For questions about specific courses, contact the Registrar’s Office at registrar@crown.edu.

What academic resources are available?

Our Student Development Office has a dedicated position to assist students throughout the year. The Coordinator of Student Success gladly meets with students and connects them with various campus resources. The services in this role are designed to increase academic success and build community.

Do you have an honors program?

Yes we have an honors program! For more information on our Honors program click here.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available?

Crown College offers a wide-range of scholarships to every student. 100% of students receive some type of financial aid. For more information about financial aid, click here.

How will Crown help me grow in my faith?

At Crown College, every class is taught from a Biblical worldview. Our faculty are all followers of Christ and are comfortable incorporating Christian principles into their curriculum. For more information on other ways Crown College equips students spiritually outside of the classroom, click here.

Related Programs

Majors

Social Studies Education
Communication Arts and Literature Education

Minors

English
Math
Communication

Next Steps

Learn More

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