Elementary and Middle School Education, B.S.

UWO’s Bachelor of Science in Education — Elementary and Middle School program offers a rigorous curriculum that blends teaching theory, subject-specific coursework and classroom experience. This integrated approach helps you connect theory to real-world instruction strategies and gain the expertise needed to support students effectively.

To get you classroom-ready, the education major covers:

• Content-area expertise in key subjects such as math, science, social studies, reading and writing
• Pedagogical expertise focused on learning theory, learner diversity, instructional design, student assessment and classroom management
• The foundations of American education, including historical, social and policy perspectives
• Multicultural education practices that prepare you to create inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms

Along with your coursework, you also participate in several clinical teaching experiences to help you acclimate to the classroom environment and begin working with students.

Review the degree requirements to learn more about how you’ll progress through the BSE — Elementary and Middle School program.

You can apply for student teaching after completing your coursework and passing the Foundations of Reading Test for Wisconsin (FORT) (if applicable).

During these immersive 15-week field placements, you’ll collaborate with a supervising teacher and gain practical experience creating lesson plans, evaluating and meeting student needs, overseeing administrative duties and more.

Once you’ve successfully completed your student teaching and all program requirements, UW–Oshkosh’s School of Education and Human Services will recommend that the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction license you in the appropriate program area.

As a teacher, you’re called to work with young learners of all backgrounds. We offer specialized undergraduate certificates to help you lead with confidence and meet students’ diverse needs:

• Adventure and Outdoor Pursuits
• American Sign Language and Deaf Culture
• Coaching
• Community Health Studies
• English as a Second Language
• English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education

Ready to become a Titan? Your journey to UWO begins today. To get started, please submit:

• An Online UW application
• A high school transcript (unofficial or official)
• Your senior schedule
• ACT/SAT scores (optional)

Once accepted into UW–Oshkosh, there are two pathways to the Bachelor of Science in Education program: standard admission or direct admission.

Standard Admission

To qualify for standard admission, you must:

• Have a minimum 2.75 combined GPA
• Have earned at least 26 credits
• Declare a licensure area (major)
• Successfully pass a criminal background check
• Have a negative or latent tuberculosis (TB) test
• Have earned minimum grades in key courses:
  • “C” or better in Public Speaking
  • “C” or better in a Math (XM) course
  • “B” or better in a Writing course

Direct Admission

To be considered for direct admission to the elementary education major, you must:

• Be a first-year or transfer student
• Have a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA (high school or transfer institution)
• Complete requirements before or during your first semester on campus
• Pass a criminal background check
• Submit a negative or latent tuberculosis (TB) test

For detailed step-by-step instructions, review the admissions information for the Teacher Education program.

Invest in your future at UW-Oshkosh. We help you launch your career as a teacher with competitive tuition rates and comprehensive support from the Financial Aid Office.

From scholarships and grants to student loans and work-study opportunities, a wide range of financial resources can help make your elementary education degree more affordable. In addition, the School of Education and Human Services awards more than $ 80,000 in scholarships each year, helping students like you achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Our School of Education and Human Services faculty and staff bring experience, perspective and a deep commitment to preparing you for meaningful work. As your instructors and mentors, they help you understand the realities of the classroom and build the practical skills and confidence needed to make a positive impact as an elementary educator.