Master’s in Elementary Education and PreK–4 Teacher Certification

A graduate degree and certification program from the Lehigh University College of Education

Preparing Confident, Inclusive Elementary Educators

Lehigh University’s MEd in Elementary Education with PreK–4 Teacher Certification prepares future educators to lead engaging, inclusive classrooms where all children are encouraged to succeed. Through close collaboration with experienced faculty, students develop a strong foundation in evidence-based teaching practices that support learners of varying abilities and backgrounds.

The program combines comprehensive coursework with hands-on learning to ensure graduates are classroom-ready. As part of the program, students complete a minimum of 14 courses, earning both the MEd degree and Pennsylvania PreK–4 Level I Teacher Certification.

As part of their studies, enrolled students explore elementary curricula, instructional methods, assessment strategies, and the fundamentals of educational research. Coursework is reinforced through field experiences and culminates in a full semester of student teaching in a PreK–4 classroom.

Ready to take the next step toward becoming a certified elementary educator? Request more information to learn how this degree and certification can help you achieve your teaching goals.

Graduate Outcomes: College of Education

A Certification With Reach

Once teachers are certified in Pennsylvania, that certification has reciprocity in most states. Educators who have completed Lehigh’s program teach in almost every state in the United States.

89%

of graduates from the program are employed, continuing education, or pursuing military or volunteer service

$52,200

average starting salary

Career Stats - MEd in Elementary Education

Narrow Your Focus With Dual Certification

Students enrolled in this program have the option to earn dual certification in either:

PreK–4 and Special Education (PreK–12)
PreK–4 and English as a Second Language (ESL)

Why Lehigh?

At Lehigh, you’ll find the right balance of academic rigor, personal support, and practical experience that sets our Master’s in Elementary Education and PreK–4 Teacher Certification program apart. With us, you’ll benefit from:

A Campus Designed for Focus and Opportunity

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, our beautiful, serene campus provides the ideal setting to step away from daily distractions and fully commit to your studies. Located just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia, students benefit from both a peaceful environment and access to major business hubs. With the Lehigh Valley’s own rapid growth and strong university connections to leading companies, schools, and nonprofits, you truly get the best of both worlds.

A Close-Knit Community

Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a team focused on your career development mean you won’t just be another face in the crowd. You’ll form strong connections with professors, advisors, and peers who are invested in your success.

Learning With Real-World Impact

Giving master’s candidates the tools to support each child’s learning and growth is the mission of our MEd in Elementary Education. To that end, students engage in coursework to become skilled practitioners in establishing effective teaching and learning environments for students with a broad range of needs.

MEd in Elementary Education and PreK–4 Teacher Certification Admissions Requirements

Ready to apply to the program? Here’s what you need to know:

Application Deadlines

Applications for this program are due by:

July 15 for a fall start
December 15 for a spring start
May 1 for a summer start

What You Need to Apply

Completed online application
$50 non-refundable application fee
Official transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application review)
Two letters of recommendation, from professional references or faculty at an accredited institution
Undergraduate coursework audit by content area expert in the certification area
Personal statement
Resume/CV
Acknowledgement of the College of Education policy on background clearances

FAQs

When is the final deadline to apply?

The final application date depends on when you plan to start the program. For a fall start, applications are due on July 15. If you aim to begin the program in the spring, applications are due by December 15. Applications for a summer start are due no later than April 15.

When do classes start?

For the fall term, classes begin in late August. Spring classes start in late January. And summer classes begin in late May.

What format is the program offered in?

Lehigh’s Elementary Education MEd and PreK–4 Teacher Certification program is offered part- or full-time, on-campus only.

What prerequisites need to be met to apply?

To be eligible to apply, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

Please note that due to Pennsylvania Department of Education criteria, international students are not eligible for PDE certification.

How long does the degree take to complete?

Full-time students can complete the program in two years.

Are scholarships available?

We currently offer two scholarships. Please check out the PA Educator Tuition Scholarship and the Inspire Scholarship to learn more.