Grounded in the liberal arts tradition and consistent with our mission, Salve Regina University's bachelor's degrees in elementary and special education integrate content-oriented curricula with comprehensive study of teaching methods and practical field experience in diverse settings. We emphasize culturally responsive teaching and attentively revise our curriculum to ensure that our students are implementing the most current, innovative and effective practices in the schools where they work.

Prepare to Actively Participate in the Lives of Children

Salve Regina's practice-based elementary education curriculum delivers diverse content knowledge designed to ready students to apply for Rhode Island teacher certification in grades 1-6. Rigorous coursework espouses a general, liberal and humanistic education while emphasizing foundational studies, specialized methods and a program of expanding field experience – all of which culminates with required student teaching in one of our many partnering elementary schools.

The special education program – which can only be taken as a double major with early childhood or elementary education – prepares majors to work with students impacted by mild and moderate special needs. Our students examine exceptionality and its relation to learning styles, teaching styles and service delivery models. Through comprehensive coursework and field experience, majors develop strategies that respond to students’ behavioral needs while effectively managing their classrooms and their teaching practice.

Salve Regina's elementary education and special education programs are committed to graduating highly qualified, well-prepared teachers who are active participants in the lives of children and the vitality of schools.