Portland State University (PSU) is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Elementary Education Bachelor’s degree program, offering undergraduates a direct pathway to becoming licensed teachers in the state of Oregon. The program, now accepting students for the fall term, marks a significant milestone in PSU’s commitment to equity, access and diversity in teacher education.
Traditionally, students have pursued their teaching license after completing a graduate-level program at PSU. But for many, a master’s degree is out of reach. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive, accessible pathway, PSU developed an undergraduate track. The elementary education degree is tailored to meet the demands of a diverse student body and different learning needs.
The undergraduate option removes some of the barriers that a master’s degree imposes by offering flexible and accessible hybrid classes, reducing the number of years in school and lowering the cost of getting a teaching license. The program is designed to support recent high school graduates, transfer students and returning students with a bachelor’s degree in something other than education.
"We’re excited to introduce this program that not only addresses the critical need for licensed teachers in Oregon but also emphasizes equity and access for all aspiring educators," said Tina Peterman, interim dean of the College of Education. "By fostering partnerships with local school districts and community colleges, we’ve created a direct route to teacher licensure that prioritizes diversity and inclusion."
At the heart of PSU’s elementary education program is a commitment to anti-racist and culturally responsive teaching practices. Faculty intentionally redesigned the curriculum to center on anti-bias principles, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate diverse classroom environments with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
"We’ve rebuilt every course from the ground up, integrating readings and discussions that reflect our commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and promoting social justice," said Shanté Stuart McQueen, assistant professor in the College of Education.
“We want to ensure that every graduate leaves PSU prepared to meet the needs of all of their students,” Stuart McQueen said. “Another critical part of our mission — while we welcome all students — is to make sure that every child in the Portland area has at least one well-prepared, well-supported teacher of color in their elementary school years,” she added.
The program includes specialized coursework for teaching multilingual learners. All graduates earn an English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) endorsement. This helps broaden their skill set and career prospects while preparing them to support students from diverse linguistic backgrounds and address the unique needs of every student.
Through dynamic coursework, collaborative learning opportunities and hands-on experience in local schools, PSU aims to cultivate a new generation of impact-driven educators.
"We’re equipping teachers with effective methods to support all children’s learning, while fostering a deep commitment to equity, inclusion and belonging," said Dot McElhone, associate professor of elementary education. "Our graduates will step into classrooms with a powerful toolbox of teaching techniques and an important understanding about how social and cultural contexts shape their students' lives."
The bachelor’s pathway is also aligned with a community college associate’s transfer degree, which translates to a more cost-effective approach to higher education.
Para educators — also known as instructional assistants or teacher’s aides — are one group that benefits greatly from PSU’s new elementary education program, said Andreina Velasco, Grow Your Own Pathway Navigator for the David Douglas School District.
“Our para educators are passionate, talented and diverse educators who are committed to our community, as many grew up, live, or have children and family in our schools,” Velasco said. “But for the majority of para educators, pursuing a master’s degree in education is not a feasible option. The cost, time, and prospect of having to leave their classroom jobs while going to school present insurmountable obstacles.”
Now, with the new undergraduate offering, she said, a degree in education is within reach.
PSU’s reputation for excellence in teacher preparation is underscored by its extensive network of partnerships with local schools and districts. Principals actively seek out PSU graduates for student teaching placements and teacher positions, recognizing their exceptional training and dedication to educational equity.
For more information about the Elementary Education Bachelor’s program at Portland State University, please visit pdx.edu/academics/programs/undergraduate/elementary-education.