Degree of Bachelor of Arts in Primary Education - School-Age Educare, Career-based 180 cr

About the Program

This program is designed for those who have experience working in after-school programs and who wish to become certified teachers. The program leads to a degree as a primary school teacher with a specialization in after-school programs. Based on prior professional experience, 45 of the program’s 180 higher education credits may be transferred, resulting in a study period of four and a half semesters.

During the program’s fieldwork component (VFU), you’ll have the opportunity to apply your theoretical knowledge in practice. You can complete your VFU in or near your place of residence.

The program is offered as a distance learning program at full-time (100% study pace) and includes on-campus sessions at your chosen study location three to four times per semester. Each session lasts at least one to two days, or longer if necessary. The program is offered in collaboration between the University of Gävle and Mälardalen University.

Build on Your Experience

This program is experience-based and is designed for those who already have experience working in after-school programs and who want to take the next step toward becoming a certified teacher. Your previous experience is leveraged and serves as a foundation for your studies, allowing the program to be completed in four and a half semesters—shorter than the standard elementary teacher education program with a focus on after-school programs.

Become a Qualified After-School Care Teacher

The program leads to a degree as a primary school teacher with a specialization in after-school programs. This means you will be qualified to lead and teach in the educational activities of an after-school program. You will also be qualified to teach a practical-aesthetic subject in grades 1–6 of elementary school. This enables a broader professional role where you can work both in after-school programs and in the school’s classroom instruction.

Grow Professionally and Personally

In this program, you’ll develop the skills needed for your future career as an after-school program teacher, while also having the opportunity to grow as a person. The program provides you with knowledge of educational leadership, social relationships, and a mindful approach when interacting with students, colleagues, and parents.

Study Locations and Format

The program is offered as a full-time (100% study pace) distance learning program with on-campus sessions at the study locations in Gävle and Eskilstuna, where the majority of the on-campus sessions take place. The on-campus sessions are in-person gatherings at the respective study locations and consist of three to four sessions per semester. Each session lasts at least one to two days and may include additional days if necessary.

Practical-Aesthetic Subject

During the program, you’ll also choose a practical-aesthetic subject to study in Semester 3. This qualifies you to teach that practical-aesthetic subject in grades 1–6 of elementary school. Depending on which practical-aesthetic subject you choose, this will determine which campus the classes are held at.

Options we offer include:

• Visual Arts – offered as a distance learning course within the program, with on-campus sessions at Mälardalen University in Gävle.
• Music – offered as a standalone distance learning course with on-campus sessions at Mälardalen University’s Eskilstuna campus. (link to course syllabus/website)
• Physical Education – offered as a standalone on-campus course at the University of Gävle. (link to course syllabus/website) https://www.hig.se/utbildning/program-och-kurser/kurssida?identifier=IDG028

Work-Based Learning (VFU)

The program combines theory and practice. Through work-based learning, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your pedagogical leadership and apply theoretical knowledge in practice under supervision. This provides you with valuable experience and prepares you for the responsibilities that come with the profession of after-school program teacher.

The VFU comprises 15 higher education credits spread over two terms of the program. This means you will complete a total of 10 weeks of study at a partner school. You have the opportunity to apply for a practicum placement in or near your place of residence once you have begun your studies. Typically, the practicum is carried out at the same partner school throughout the entire program, which fosters continuity and hands-on learning.

A collaboration between two universities—Gävle University and Mälardalen University

The program is offered in collaboration between Gävle University College and Mälardalen University. You will take courses at both institutions, regardless of your study location. Some courses are offered by the University of Gävle and others by Mälardalen University. The institution responsible for the course is also responsible for instruction, assessment, and course information.

Instruction takes place primarily online via Canvas and Zoom. On-campus sessions are held at your study location. One exception is a session at the end of Semester 1, which is held at the University of Gävle for all students.

As a program student at the University of Gävle, you are enrolled there. For courses offered by Mälardalen University, you will also be registered as a student at Mälardalen University.

In the distance learning program, you can study alongside students from both campuses.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

As an elementary school teacher in after-school programs, you are in high demand in the job market and can work in both municipal and independent programs.

After graduation, you also have the opportunity to pursue further studies at the University of Gävle in educational science, for example at the master’s level with a focus on organizational development. Further studies can open doors to work in school development, mentoring, or other specialized roles in the field of education.

Job Market

The job market for qualified after-school program teachers is strong. Today, many people work in after-school programs without a teaching license, while municipalities and independent organizations have a clear need for teachers with the proper education and qualifications.

The need for trained after-school program teachers is expected to remain high in the coming years.

Through the Elementary Teacher Education Program with a specialization in after-school programs, you will gain the qualifications sought after in the job market and enhance your opportunities for employment in both municipal and independent organizations.

More specializations in the elementary teacher education program

Specialization in Preschool and Elementary School Grades 1–3: 240 credits

Specialization in teaching grades 4–6 in elementary school, 240 credits