Overview
Start Your Path to Becoming an Elementary Teacher
WVU Parkersburg’s Elementary Education program offers flexible entry points and a clear pathway to teacher licensure. Students can begin as early as high school through early college opportunities, then continue through a stackable pathway that supports progress from entry-level roles to becoming a licensed teacher.
Through early and ongoing field experiences beginning in the first year, candidates engage in real-world settings across regional partner schools, applying theory to practice and building confidence in the classroom.
The program is guided by a strong Quality Assurance System (QAS) that uses multiple data sources and stakeholder input to support continuous improvement. Faculty regularly collaborate with P–12 partners, the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), and the Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC) to ensure coursework, clinical experiences, and program expectations remain aligned with workforce needs and professional standards.
Candidates may pursue a stackable pathway designed to support entry and advancement in the profession:
This pathway, developed in collaboration with WVDE and regional partners, is approved to support progression from entry-level roles through initial teacher licensure, expanding access to the profession while meeting state workforce needs.
Additional endorsements are available in grades 5–9 in:
WVU Parkersburg’s Education programs are nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), reflecting a commitment to quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
The program has also been recognized nationally, including receipt of the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement, and most recently, an honorable mention at the 2026 Youth Mental Health First Aid Summit in Denver for its work in trauma-informed practices and educator preparation.
Accreditation
The Education Division at WVU Parkersburg was awarded national accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) in 2020. This was for the Education Division’s Elementary Education Program K-6 and the Specializations in English, General Math- Algebra I, PreK-K, Science, and Social Studies. The Emphasis in Special Education was added after the visit. Please go to the following link for more information on WVU Parkersburg accreditation.
View Full Accreditation Information
Careers
Student Gateways Leading to Careers
WVU Parkersburg’s Education programs are designed to support students through clear gateways that lead to careers in schools and, for those who continue, to teacher licensure.
Students may begin through early entry opportunities and progress through a stackable pathway that includes ECCAT, Paraprofessional, A.A.S. in Elementary Education, and B.A. in Elementary Education (K–6 Licensure). Each step builds knowledge, skills, and experience while creating opportunities for employment along the way.
The program’s gateway system helps students move from:
- Admission to the University
- Admission to the Education Program
- Admission to Residency I
- Admission to Residency II
- Graduation, Certification, and Licensure
This model gives students multiple entry and exit points while keeping a clear path toward long-term career growth.
Possible Career Outcomes
- Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT)
- Paraprofessional
- Substitute Teacher
- Elementary School Teacher
- Special Education Teacher
- Academic Support Roles in Schools
Students in the bachelor’s pathway may also pursue additional emphases and specializations in high-need areas such as Special Education and Mathematics.
Throughout each gateway, candidates participate in field experiences, receive support from faculty and school partners, and build toward becoming classroom-ready professionals.
Costs
Tuition
Estimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change.
*Early College fees may differ per program, for example, in Welding and Cosmetology.
| Residency | Per Credit Hour | Per Semester | Fall & Spring Semesters |
|---|
| WV & OH Residents | $188 – $260 | $2,256 – $3,120 | $4,512 – $6,240 |
| Non-Residents | $376 – $401 | $4,512 – $4,812 | $9,024 – $9,624 |
| High School Students | $50 | $600 | $1,200 |
Estimated Costs Of Attendance
Estimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation.
| Category | WV & Ohio Residents Living with Parents | WV & Ohio Residents NOT Living with Parents | Non-Residents Living with Parents | Non-Residents NOT Living with Parents |
|---|
| Room & Board | $9,144 | $14,544 | $9,144 | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 | $5,783 | $10,506 | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 | $2,273 | $1,173 | $2,273 |
| Total | $20,000 | $26,500 | $24,723 | $31,223 |
|---|
