I liked that Rider had small classes, and that whenever I visited, Dr. McKool always remembered my name, and everyone always answered all of my questions. I knew that at Rider I wasn’t going to get lost in the crowd.
Program overview
Make meaningful contributions in the classroom, positively impact the lives of students and put your passion to work by preparing to become a licensed elementary school teacher at Rider.
1M+
Teaching jobs in the US (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020)
$61K
Median salary for kindergarten and elementary school teachers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021)
124K+
Kindergarten and elementary school teacher job openings each year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Admission options

First-year - How to Apply
Rider is where your future begins. First-year students are defined as recent high school graduates who are attending college for the first time. There are so many opportunities ahead. Take the first step towards your tomorrow at Rider.

Transfer - How to Apply
No matter where you began your journey, Rider has the resources you need to continue moving forward. At Rider, transfer students are defined as students who are under the age of 25 and have credits from another college or university.

Continuing Education - How to Apply
Rider offers flexible pathways for adult learners aged 25 or over, including veterans and active duty military personnel, that allow you to begin or complete your college degree, prepare for an advanced degree or grow your knowledge for personal enrichment. Non-matriculated or visiting students should apply using the Continuing Education application.
Educate the next generation
Elementary education graduates leave Rider well-prepared to support students to build solid learning foundations. Our graduates are recruited by schools and districts throughout the state and take on important roles in elementary education.
Common careers:
- Elementary and kindergarten teacher
- Special education teacher
- Preschool teacher
- Preschool and childcare center director
- Teacher assistant


Program requirements
Elementary education majors select from a liberal arts discipline in which they will fulfill the requirements for the major. Your curriculum will consist of a combination of general studies courses, major requirements and field experiences.

Minors
Make the most of your undergraduate experience and earn additional teaching certifications by adding a minor to your degree.
Minors offered:
- Bilingual Education
- Early Childhood Education
- English as a Second Language
- Middle School Education
- Special Education
Student teaching
Your studies are half the picture of becoming a teacher, but the other half is actually teaching. As part of the College of Education and Human Services, you’ll observe and assist in classrooms, develop teaching methods and complete an entire semester of full-time student teaching.

Financial aid resources
Learn more about financial aid, tuition and the various options we offer to make your college education affordable.
Contact
Associate Professor, Chair, Department of Teacher Education
Bierenbaum Fisher Hall
smckool [at] rider.edu
609-895-5527
