Elementary Education Foundations and Transfer Pathway
The purpose of elementary education is to lay a solid foundation for further learning and to foster growth in children, encompassing social and emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
Students will learn skills in:
- Elementary education basics and how factors impact learning
- Teaching philosophies and individualized programs
- Implementation of engaging lessons to promote self-motivated learning
- Verbal, nonverbal and intercultural communication with students and families
Graduates either enter the workforce directly or transfer to a partner Minnesota State university to earn a bachelor’s degree to obtain a Minnesota teaching license to teach kindergarten through grade six.
* Tuition/fees and additional costs are approximate and based on 2025-26 school year.
- 17 credit certificate
- 60 credit degree
- Online & in-person courses
- Start in fall or spring
Program Delivery
Section titled “Program Delivery”- Three in-person courses at Willmar or Hutchinson campuses
- Other classes held online with no set meeting time; students attend lectures and access class materials according to their schedule
- Fall and spring start
Program Cost*
Section titled “Program Cost*”Tuition/Fees
Section titled “Tuition/Fees”- AS Transfer Pathway – $14,314
- Certificate – $4,056
Additional Costs
Section titled “Additional Costs”- Book costs vary
- Background check: $45
Program Highlights
Section titled “Program Highlights”The Elementary Education Foundations Transfer Pathway AS is designed for a student to attend a partnered Minnesota State university:
- Bemidji State University
- Metropolitan State University
- Minnesota State University – Mankato
- Minnesota State University – Moorhead
- Southwest State University – Marshall
- St. Cloud State University
- Winona State University
Careers & Jobs
Section titled “Careers & Jobs”- Elementary Teacher
- Elementary Teacher’s Paraprofessional