Education, AA (EDU.AA)

The Associate of Arts in Education provides the foundation coursework for future teachers and is designed for students planning to transfer to an Education Bachelor’s degree program at all Arizona public universities. Students planning to transfer to a university other than an Arizona public university are urged to contact an advisor. For more information regarding the Education, AA, see the Education webpage.

Note: For a course to be eligible for transfer, the student must receive a “C” or better. Acceptance of a transfer course is determined by the receiving institution.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

Plan meaningful and challenging curriculum using research-based instructional practices in pedagogy that align to national, state, and local education standards. (3, 4, 5, 6)
Implement a broad range of developmentally appropriate instructional strategies that consider children’s unique characteristics and needs. (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
Design inclusive, engaging, and supportive classroom learning environments by utilizing effective management techniques, principles of classroom design, and pedagogical theory. (2, 3, 4, 5)
Create collaborative partnerships with families and communities using effective communication methods, knowledge of interpersonal communication, and that demonstrate an understanding of cultural differences. (2, 3, 4, 6)
Employ professional and ethical practices that support the rights and responsibilities of students and teachers and honor the profession’s code of ethics. (2, 3, 4)
Evaluate appropriate assessment techniques that support learning and inform teaching practices. (3, 4, 5, 6)

Recommended Program Pathway

NOTE: Courses with an asterik (*) indicates the course is a program requirement.

First Semester: 16 credits

ENG 101 - English Composition I Credits: 3
POS 120 - American National Government Credits: 3
ART 130 - World Art History I Credits: 3
or any 3 credit course within the Arts & Humanities category of the AGEC
BIO 100 - Biology Concepts with Lab Credits: 4
or any 4 credit course within the Natural Sciences category of the AGEC
MAT 142 - College Mathematics Credits: 3 or higher
NOTES:
- Review your academic plan and confirm your course sequence with advisor.
- Ensure financial aid, payment options, and required forms are complete.
- Explore campus resources such as tutoring, student life, libraries, and career exploration tools.

Second Semester: 16 credits

ENG 102 - English Composition II Credits: 3
PSY 101 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3
EDU 200 - Children’s Literature Credits: 3 *
EDU 205 - Introduction to Education Credits: 3 *
GLG 101 - Physical Geology with Lab Credits: 4
or any 4 credit course within the Natural Sciences category of AGEC
NOTES:
- Begin exploring career interests or transfer options related to your program of study. (If interested in transferring to another college or organization, start reviewing requirements and opportunities.)
- Use available academic success resources to strengthen study strategies and time management.
- Check your academic progress and adjust as needed to stay on track.

Third Semester: 16 credits

SPA 101 - Elementary Spanish I Credits: 4
or
ASL 101 - American Sign Language I Credits: 4
EDU 214 - Cultural Diversity in Education Credits: 3 *
EDU 260 - Building Reading Literacy through Word Study, Comprehension Strategies, and Phonics Skills Credits: 3 *
MAT 160 - Math for Elementary Teachers I Credits: 3 *
COM 151 - Public Speaking Credits: 3 *
NOTES:
- Review progress toward graduation and confirm remaining requirements.
- Begin preparing application materials such as resumes, personal statements, or transfer documents.
- Track important application deadlines, testing requirements, or program prerequisites.

Fourth Semester: 16 credits

MAT 161 - Math for Elementary Teachers II Credits: 3 *
PSY 245 - Lifespan Development Credits: 3
EDU 222 - The Exceptional Student Credits: 3 *
EDU 270 - Classroom Management Credits: 3 *
ENG 138 - Creative Writing I Credits: 3
or any 3 credit course within the Arts & Humanities category of the AGEC
POS 100 - Arizona Constitution and Government Credits: 1 *
NOTES:
- Submit your graduation application and verify completion of eligibility.
- Finalize applications for transfer institutions, programs, or certifications, if applicable. (If planning to transfer, confirm all necessary materials and deadlines.)
- Confirm all financial obligations, forms, and holds are cleared.
- Celebrate your accomplishments and explore the next steps, including transfer, employment, or continuing education.