Advocate for each young child through holistic education
Mercer’s Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) with a major in Elementary/Special Education prepares residential undergraduate students on the Macon campus for certification to teach children in grades P through 5. With a focus on holistic childhood development in all areas of learning, the Elementary/Special Education major equips students to dive beneath the surface and gain an understanding of the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical needs and growth of each child.
In addition to learning how to assess and advocate for the needs of each individual child, Elementary/Special Education majors study best practices for curriculum and instruction, including how to integrate technological tools to help children learn in new and exciting ways.
Individuals who successfully complete the program of study and obtain passing scores on the appropriate GaPSC-approved Content Pedagogy Assessment and GACE Content Assessments lead to eligibility for Level 4 induction certification.
Gain valuable field experience
Elementary/Special Education majors fulfill a set of field placements within diverse school and community populations. Through field experiences, students will:
- Be equipped to advocate for the needs and rights of each young child they serve in their future classrooms
- Understand the importance of collaboration and establishing partnerships with parents, schools, and communities
Learn more about field experience.
Expand your knowledge
Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to:
- Understand the young child from a holistic perspective with an emphasis upon the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains – as well as the child’s environment
- Understand various curriculum models and best practices
- Construct and implement an integrated, developmentally appropriate curriculum for all areas of a child’s development, including cognitive, emotional, social, and physical
- Demonstrate competency in developing and implementing a wide variety of diagnostic and assessment techniques and strategies
- Integrate technological advances as a routine part of the curriculum
Learn more about our Elementary/Special Education major:
The Holistic Child program in the College of Education prepared me to teach, support, and love my students by focusing on the whole child.
The College of Education prepared me for the teaching profession by giving me the opportunity to learn from amazing professors and through various field placement experiences. I would recommend the College of Education to anyone that has a passion for teaching because you will be given learning opportunities that will allow you to thrive in the field.
Mercer’s College of Education has allowed me the opportunity to grow both academically and professionally. I have been surrounded by peers and professors who have challenged me in my thinking and pushed me to become a better advocate and educator for my future students.
Visit Mercer
Websites and brochures never tell the whole story. You can browse photos online, but it's the undeniable spirit of Mercer that captivates you when you visit campus.
Meet the Faculty
Mercer's Tift College of Education is supported by faculty and staff who devote themselves to preparing students to become transforming educators within their communities and throughout the world.
Professional licensure
All of Mercer’s programs that lead to licensure are designed to meet the educational requirements of regulatory authorities in the State of Georgia. If you intend to seek licensure or certification outside of Georgia, please review Mercer’s professional licensure disclosure for more information.