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Elementary Teacher Education Option, AA

Program Snapshot
Academic CredentialAssociate in Arts (AA)
Total Credit Hours60
Average Time to Complete2 yrs.
Academic PathwaySocial, Behavioral, Education
AdvisorAmanda Manning
Instructional Coordinator for Education Programs
850.769.1551 ext. 2869
amanning3@gulfcoast.edu

Senior Administrative AssistantMs. Jody Walton
210 Social Sciences Building
850.872.3825
jwalton1@gulfcoast.edu

Visit my faculty page

Social Sciences Website

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Elementary Teacher Education, AA

Is a Degree in Elementary Teacher Education Right for You?

There are many reasons to teach - social, philanthropic, economic, diplomatic - and each one is compelling.  If you (or someone you care about) benefited from the instruction and care of an outstanding teacher, you understand the impact a great teacher can have on a student's life. 

A career in education brings immeasurable gratification and a deep sense of accomplishments because teachers make such a profound difference- for whom, how, and where you make that difference is up to you.   

Our Elementary Teacher Education (EDUC-AA) university transfer track is an excellent program for individuals interested in a teaching career in the lower grades.   Elementary education teachers lead students as they learn about a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, history, language arts, and science. Aspiring elementary education students must complete professional field-based programs, and they gain experience with designing curricula and teaching classes.  The program is structured for transfer to a four-year institution, leading to Florida teacher certification for kindergarten to sixth grade.  

According to the 2021 U.S.  Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), the national median annual salary for K-6 teachers was $61,350.00 per year.  Employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Growth is expected because of projected increases in student enrollment.  Employment may vary by region. 

Gulf Coast State College's Elementary Teacher - AA University Transfer Track is your first step toward a successful career in teaching!

PE teacher with students

Elementary Teacher Education, AA Course Requirements

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English I & II
Visual and Performing Arts
Philosophy/Religion
Literature
Select 6 hours from a list of Math Courses

Physical Science
Biological Science

1  credit hour requirement

Behavioral Sciences
History
Government
Teaching Courses
Electives

A complete list of courses with descriptions can be found in the Catalog

What can you do with Elementary Teacher Education Associate of Arts?

In this field, people find careers as:

Preschool Teacher
Childcare Center Director
Family Support Specialist
Consultant
Researcher
Elementary School Teacher

Gulf Coast alumni of this program have continued their education at:

University of South Florida
Florida State University
University of Central Florida

Books and blackboard
Faith Paulsen

Meet Faith Paulsen, Gulf Coast State College Student & Aspiring Educator

"All of my professors have been extremely helpful and kind.  Dr. Phillips (GCSC Social Sciences Division professor) is a mentor to me and all of his students...I hope to inspire kids the way that my teachers have inspired me." – GCSC STUDENT, AA LIBERAL ARTS MAJOR
Who is Eligible for the Elementary Teacher Education Program?
If you are a high school graduate, you can apply to this program. If you have earned credits from a regionally accredited college or university, you may have a head start at Gulf Coast State College.
Why Choose Gulf Coast State College to Earn Your Degree?
You'll get a great education with one of the lowest tuition rates in the state. With small class sizes and professors who care, you'll get the personal attention you deserve. More than 90% of our graduates would recommend Gulf Coast State College to others.

Are you ready to get started?

Apply to  GCSC

Visit the Gulf Coast admissions page to learn more about the application process.

Consult the Gulf Coast State College Catalog for specific program and course information.

APPLY NOW

Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships

There are many options available to help you pay for college. Find out more about  scholarships and financial aid at Gulf Coast State College.

APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

Register for Classes

Check out the class registration dates and plan your schedule today.

REGISTER

Gulf Coast State College does not discriminate against any person in its programs, activities, policies or procedures on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, marital status, religion, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. All questions or inquiries regarding compliance with laws relating to non-discrimination and all complaints regarding sexual misconduct or discrimination, may be directed to Lee Wood, Executive Director, Human Resources/Title II/504/Title IX Coordinator and Employment Equity Officer, Gulf Coast State College, 5230 W. US Highway 98, Panama City, FL 32401.