Elementary & Early Childhood Education FAQs

Yes, you can complete Western’s early education and elementary educational program completely online. There are also many secondary programs that can be completed online. However, it is important for online students to pay close attention to course offerings as not all courses are offered online every semester. 

No, teachers must have a bachelor degree of education to obtain a teaching license. Western educational programs are designed to prepare students interested in teaching to achieve an associate degree and be well prepared to enter a 4-year institution to finish their bachelor degree.

Graduates from Western Wyoming Community College are eligible to transfer to any 4-year institution.  Western has specific transfer agreements with many regional universities including the following: University of Wyoming, Regis University, Valley City State University, and Mayville University.

Students who obtain a bachelor degree in early childhood education are able to teach in any elementary school grades k-3; they can also teach at a preschool.

Students who obtain a bachelor degree in elementary education are able to teach in any elementary school grades k-6.

Students who obtain a bachelor degree in secondary education are able to teach in any secondary school grades 7-12; however, they must specialize in a specific content area.

No, Western only offers associate degrees in elementary & early childhood education or secondary education. Specialized degrees, minors, and certificates are completed with a bachelor degree. 

Most states require you to take an exam before becoming licensed.  Information about exact teacher credentialing structures is searchable by state.

A teacher may be allowed to hold a position in the classroom while fulfilling the requirements for a teaching license; however, that varies from state to state.  Also, there is usually a time limit placed on fulfilling those requirements. Information about exact teacher credentialing structures is searchable by state.