BACHELOR’s Degree in EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, Elementary Education (License) at CU Denver
Become an Elementary Teacher. Teach and Inspire Change.
Our Program Strengths
Transfer-Friendly Pathway
Seamless transitions for students transferring from community colleges and four-year institutions.
Residency-Based Learning
Gain real-world teaching experience from year one, which culminates in a full-time student teaching residency in the final year.
Personalized Support & Scholarships
Access generous scholarships, small class sizes, and dedicated faculty mentorship.
“This program offers a pathway or multiple pathways to become a teacher that contains deep clinical experience so that you’re in classrooms from year one, with integrated coursework, so that you're using your coursework as you’re in classrooms, to practice, implement, reflect and get feedback. So, you're growing yourself as a teacher for the full four years of an undergrad degree.”
Barbara Seidl, PhD
Associate Dean for Teacher Education and Undergraduate Experiences
“The University of Colorado Denver’s SEHD is flooded with instructors that exude empathy, compassion, and an eagerness to teach beyond what is expected. Learning is deeply rooted in reflective practices and students are challenged to be aware and mindful of their ever-growing philosophies. I appreciate the long-term support and relationships that are fostered in CU Denver's program!”
LaTierre Greene
Bachelor of Arts in Education and Human Development, Elementary Education ’24
“I am so glad that I joined the math department at CU Denver with a concentration in secondary education. The professors in the math department are absolutely amazing. They are always willing to help in math and other aspects of life. Overall, the course load is manageable, and the program through SEHD gives me a great challenge. It has been a great experience and I couldn’t be happier with the decision I have made.”
Kayla Shoemaker
Bachelor of Arts in Education and Human Development, Secondary Education and Math ’24
“I am glad I chose [CU Denver] because the program prepared me to teach a diverse population of students—and this allows me to see my students with empathy, equity, and inclusiveness.”
Luis Vega
Bachelor of Arts in Education and Human Development, Elementary Education ’22
Sixth Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher, Mapleton Public Schools
Ready to take the next step?
The bachelor of arts in education and human development, elementary education (license) provides comprehensive training, experience, and mentorship to ensure graduates are prepared to lead diverse classrooms.
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CU Denver’s bachelor of arts in education and human development, elementary education (license) prepares future teachers to lead diverse and inclusive classrooms with a strong foundation in social justice and equity. Through culturally responsive teaching, hands-on experience, and rigorous academic training, graduates earn their elementary teaching license and CLDE endorsement together.
Program Details
Course Start Dates
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Duration
Typically four years
Number of Credits
126 credit hours
Fast-Track Your Master’s Degree
Apply up to nine credits from your bachelor’s degree program toward a master’s degree. Accelerate your educational journey and further your expertise in the field.
Dual Endorsements for Greater Opportunities
Earn both a Colorado Elementary Education License and a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) endorsement.
Core Areas of Study
Child Development & Assessment
Understand how children think and learn to inform effective teaching practices.
Culturally Responsive Teaching
Develop strategies to support diverse learners, including multilingual students.
Core Subject Instruction
Gain content expertise in math, literacy, science, and social studies.
Family & Community Collaboration
Learn how to engage families and communities in student learning.
Students develop expertise in lesson planning, classroom management, child development, and inclusive teaching strategies to create engaging learning environments for elementary-aged students.
Courses & Careers
Children’s Thinking and Assessment (HDFR 3050)
Understand key developments in children’s thinking, from conceptual behavior to creativity, play, and assessment methods.
Social Foundations and Cultural Diversity in Urban Education (EDFN 4010)
Explore culturally and linguistically diverse education principles.
CLDE Foundations (CLDE 2000)
Explore the foundations of bilingual education, essential linguistics, and bilingual language development and assessment.
Example Courses
Family, Professional, and Community Collaboration (SPED 4300)
Build partnerships that enhance student success.
