The Elementary Education program at the University of Maine prepares students to become certified teachers for K-8 classrooms. It provides a strong liberal arts foundation with opportunities to gain professional experience through partnerships with school districts locally, statewide, and internationally. Students are supported by the nationally recognized College of Education and Human Development, which offers both academic coursework and field-based work, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for diverse educational settings. The program also offers chances to engage in research, participate in honors college work, and build technological skills relevant to modern classrooms.
Why this course is highly recommended
This program stands out because of its strong partnerships with various school districts and its nationally recognized faculty. Students benefit from small class sizes, intensive advising, and opportunities for research and professional networking through organizations like the Student Education Association of Maine and EChO. Additionally, the possibility of engaging in the 4+1 program in special education allows students to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees within five years. The program is designed to thoroughly prepare students for a variety of career paths in education and related fields.
Students in the elementary education program can complete an area of specialization to focus their studies on a particular subject they are interested in teaching. Available specializations include English, French, Spanish, Child Development, Life/Physical Sciences, Math, Social Studies, and Special Education.
Application fees
31.94L
1st year tuition fees
31.94L
Living cost
The curriculum is designed to meet professional standards from the Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC). Specific course checklists and professional course sequences are available to guide students through the required classroom and certification coursework, with encouragement for students to explore additional coursework such as minors or specializations.

English language test
Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria,
and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Maine admission page
for complete details.
Graduates are eligible to become certified teachers in K-8 classrooms, but their skills also open doors to roles outside of teaching, such as research positions, roles in museums or corporations, or technology integration in education. The program equips students with collaboration, communication, and teamwork skills useful in many diverse career paths.