Associate in Arts
Elementary Education

Empower Your Future: Discover our Elementary Education Pathway

Prepare for a career in teaching with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Elementary Education. This program provides the foundation for students planning to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in elementary education. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree is designed to provide students with the courses needed for the freshman and sophomore levels of a bachelor’s degree. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies. This pathway also provides students with the option to transition into Lake-Sumter State College’s Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education program. Students can complete their courses online or in person, with the flexibility to choose electives that match their interests and goals.
Individuals reading in classroom; instructor at desk assisting two students with book; elementary school education setting.

Overview

The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Elementary Education Pathway allows students to complete an Associate of Arts degree with course credits that seamlessly transition into Lake-Sumter State College’s
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education
program. This pathway enables students to complete all required prerequisites without additional, non-required electives. Students may also transfer directly into designated Elementary Education bachelor’s degree programs at participating universities.

Students are encouraged to consult with an Academic Advisor early in their studies to determine the best course selections, including any foreign language requirements, and to ensure course transferability based on their intended major and transfer institution. The program requires 60 credit hours for completion.

Additionally, students may apply to become a paid Swoop Academy Tutor, gaining hands-on experience in a local school setting.

Program Highlights

  • Flexible Learning Options: Courses available online and in person.
  • Professional Opportunities: Paid work experience in local schools through the Swoop Academy Tutor program.
  • Lakehawk Journey: Direct pathway to the Elementary Education B.S. degree at LSSC.
  • Local Partnerships: Lake County Schools, Sumter County Schools, and the Education Foundation of Lake County.
    DirectConnect to UCF® offers guaranteed admission upon completion.

Program Length

The program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in two years when attending full-time.

Program Cost

Tuition costs for programs and courses at the associate’s degree level are $109.73 per credit hour. Additional costs will include textbooks, materials, and course fees.

Program Cost Details

Scholarships

Students graduating from high school and enrolling at LSSC may qualify for other scholarships offered through the State of Florida. You will be notified of your eligibility after you apply to the College.

Scholarship Details

Financial Aid

There are many options to finance your education. You may be eligible for Federal Grants, Work-Study, State Grants, Federal Loans, and Institutional Scholarships. For more information and how to apply, please visit the Financial Aid page.

Financial Aid Details

Outcomes

The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares students to transfer as juniors to a Florida public university. Students should be aware that most majors require specific prerequisite courses for admission. With careful planning, these courses may fulfill general education requirements or elective credits.

 

For a detailed breakdown of the curriculum and degree requirements, visit the Catalog page.

  • You can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at LSSC to obtain your teaching certification, making you eligible to teach in grades PK through 6. This pathway allows you to remain at LSSC, benefiting from their tuition rates, and avoids the need for additional elective credits required by other state universities.
  • You can use the DirectConnect to UCF program to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.
  • You can pursue a career in early childhood education facilities and earn credentials such as the Florida Child Care Professional Credential or the Director’s Credential for operating an Early Childhood Center.

Partnerships with local schools allow students to be LSSC Swoop Ambassadors and work in a k-5 setting to get valuable experience in teaching.  

Yes, LSSC offers various financial aid options. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA application. Learn more.

LSSC provides academic advising, tutoring, and career services to help students succeed. Learn more.

Interested students are encouraged to submit their applications via the LSSC website and meet necessary admission requirements. Apply.

Application Process

A student must have a high school diploma or GED to apply to Lake-Sumter State College.

01

Submit your Application

Submit your online application and $30 application fee

02

Transcripts

Submit high school/GED and prior college/university transcripts

03

Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA and other financial aid forms

Our team is ready to support you!

Admissions advisor guiding student through admissions process

Why Choose LSSC

Over 11,000

Students

26+

Degrees & Certificates

30:1

Student To Faculty Ratio

30+

Clubs & Organizations

1st

Students First. Always.

Fastest

GROWING COLLEGE IN FLORIDA

Relevant Programs & Resources

Collage: person teaching in classroom, students listening, group reading. Elementary classroom setting. Joyful atmosphere.

Bachelor of Science

Elementary Education

Individuals interacting in a bright secondary education hallway and classroom.

Associate in Arts

Secondary Education