Education

Elementary Education

License-Only, Initial Licensure (1-6) Program

Use your expertise to drive student achievement.

If you already have or do not need a master’s degree, this license-only program is the perfect way to quickly get into grade 1–6 classrooms as a licensed elementary school teacher.

In this program, perfect for career changers, you'll learn about inclusive schooling, literature and literacy, and elementary subject areas from literature to science and social studies. Explore how to support all students using research-based practices and current technologies. Investigate ways to teach English language learners, and strategies for student-centered learning. Learn experientially in our learning labs and makerspace.

In addition, you'll build relationships with schools through in-depth field experiences. And through self-reflection and examination of multiple perspectives, you'll emerge as an effective and compassionate educator. 

At Lesley, you'll study in small classes with faculty who are committed to culturally responsive teaching, equitable classrooms, and instruction that meets the needs of a diverse student population. And you'll draw inspiration from our location in Cambridge, home to world class institutions, arts and culture, and a diverse population. When you finish your program, you’ll be more than ready for the 21st-century classroom. 

Graduate Program Inquiry Form

Program Structure

Full-time or part-time on-campus program

34 Credits
Gain Skills and Expertise
Our license-only elementary education program prepares you to:
$86,755
Average salary for teachers in Massachusetts (2021-2022), according to the National Education Association.
#1
Superintendents and other hiring managers across Massachusetts prefer to hire Lesley graduates, reporting that they are best prepared to enter the classroom on day one. (Source: Radius Global Market Research)
Top Schools
Massachusetts ranks as the best state to be a teacher, with some of the highest performing schools and best salaries in the country, according to US News.
John Pabian
Elementary Education
Dr. Michael Pabian
Mike, an assistant professor, brings to Lesley over 35 years of experience in public school teaching, coaching, and administration. His education courses reflect a synthesis of theory and practice. He has also taught "Baseball and the American Experience," an examination of issues such as culture, race, identity, economics, and the media as informed by the study of baseball. A lifelong learner, he recently completed his PhD in Educational Studies at Lesley.
The degree employers are looking for
Lesley graduates go on to rewarding careers in public and private schools, charter schools, and beyond. That's because our programs are ranked #1 for preparing teachers with the skills Massachusetts employers are seeking, including:
Important Licensure Information

All Lesley University educator licensure programs comply with current Massachusetts educational requirements, as specified. In addition, Massachusetts participates in the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement, which makes it possible for an educator to have their Massachusetts license/s recognized across the United States. Depending on your professional goals, where you reside or plan to teach, and the licensure structures that exist within that state, there are diverse pathways to licensure that may be relevant. In accordance with Lesley University’s institutional participation in SARA (State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement) and with federal regulations, Lesley University strongly encourages prospective applicants who intend to pursue licensure in a state other than Massachusetts review the Lesley University Licensure and Credentialing page for more information.

Graduate Elementary Education Programs

Faculty

Total approximate cost for this license only program. Tuition and fees are for the 2023–2024 academic year.
Elementary Education
  • Tuition
    On-Campus Tuition: $925/credit x 28
    $25,900
    Online Tuition: $750/credit x 6
    $4,500
  • Fees
    Field Experience Fee
    $850
    Map ePortfolio Fee
    $200
    Comprehensive Fee
    $850
  • Total
Estimated Cost

All graduate students are reviewed for merit scholarships through the admissions process and are awarded at the time of acceptance. Other forms of financial aid are also available. Review all graduate tuition and fees, and what they cover. Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective in the Summer term.

Apply Now

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.

Your degree is an investment, and we're committed to ensuring its value. That's why we offer the best teacher education in Massachusetts at competitive tuition rates.
We'll help ensure your degree is as affordable as possible. Use our step-by-step guide to apply for federal and university funding. Scholarships, grants, Work-Study, and loans. It’s all right here.

Next steps to apply

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.