BA in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies - Elementary Education, Seattle University

Seattle, Washington

48 Months

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About this course

This program prepares students to become primary school teachers with a focus on interdisciplinary liberal studies. It combines content knowledge with practical teaching experience, including over 700 hours of supervised classroom work. The degree is designed to meet certification requirements in Washington state, integrating coursework from the College of Education and interdisciplinary liberal studies. Students gain a broad understanding of social disparities, project management, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, all within a values-focused, community-engaged framework. The program emphasizes real-world experience through classroom internships, volunteer opportunities, and community engagement courses, setting graduates up for impactful careers in elementary education.

Why this course is highly recommended

This degree is highly valued for its strong combination of interdisciplinary studies and practical classroom experience. The program’s extensive fieldwork, including more than 700 hours of supervised classroom teaching, helps students build confidence and competence. Additionally, the community engagement component offers real-world experience and a chance to work for social justice, making graduates well-prepared for diverse classroom settings and impactful teaching careers.

Specialisation

The specialization within this degree is in elementary education, combining interdisciplinary liberal studies with professional education courses. This integration ensures students meet the competencies demanded by the Professional Educator Standards Board in Washington state. The program focuses on preparing students with both broad academic knowledge and essential teaching skills for primary education.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

44.27L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete the program, students must earn 180 credits over four years, including coursework in interdisciplinary liberal studies, education-specific courses (EDLS), and prerequisites. The program includes a clinical internship in the senior year, providing hands-on teaching experience in elementary classrooms. Transfer students can complete the program in approximately two years.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

110

Career prospects

Graduates of this program typically become elementary school teachers in various districts, as exemplified by alumni working in schools across Washington and beyond. The program also opens pathways to graduate studies or careers in community organizations, educational administration, or related fields focused on social justice and community engagement.

FAQs

What practical teaching experience will I gain?

You will complete over 700 hours of supervised classroom work, culminating in a clinical internship in your senior year where you teach in an elementary classroom with mentorship.

How does community engagement factor into the program?

All students participate in a community service course focused on social justice, offering real-world work experience and an opportunity to work with organizations beyond the classroom.