Best Colleges in Springfield, MO for Elementary Education?

I'm considering going to college in Springfield, Missouri, to study elementary education. Which colleges are well-regarded for this major there? Are any locals or current students who can weigh in?

In Springfield, Missouri, Missouri State University (MSU) is particularly well-regarded for its programs in Elementary Education. The school's College of Education offers a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSED) in Elementary Education, which prepares students for certification to teach grades 1-6. MSU's program emphasizes field experiences, allowing students to gain practical skills by observing and teaching in real classroom settings. If you are interested in special education or reading, MSU also offers an integrated, dual degree program, through which you can earn your BSED in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Education with a focus on either Special Education or Literacy.

Another option in Springfield is Drury University, a private liberal arts institution. Drury's School of Education and Child Development offers a major in Elementary Education. Compared to MSU, Drury is smaller which could afford closer relationships with professors. The program integrates a liberal arts curriculum and places a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and promoting social justice in education. They too provide real-world experience by placing students in local classrooms early in their program.

When deciding between schools, it may be helpful to consider factors such as class size, available resources, extracurricular opportunities related to your major, and the extent of hands-on experience offered through each program. I'd also encourage you to reach out to these schools to arrange campus visits or connect with current students or alumni in the programs if you can, as they might provide more personalized insights.