Education - Early Childhood/Childhood

A challenging major for a rewarding career in childhood education

When you major in Early Childhood/Childhood Education at Alfred University, you receive an integrated blend of professional education methods, coursework, and field based opportunities in area schools. Because the focus of this education major is on learning processes for young children, you'll be prepared to meet the academic requirements of the New York State Education Department for certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth - 2nd Grade) and Childhood Education (1st - 6th grade).

Graduates of Alfred University's Education Division have an outstanding placement rate. They excel in their professional careers because they:

• Learn how to convert their knowledge of a subject matter into compelling lessons that meet the needs of all learners.
• Act on their knowledge in a caring and professional manner that leads to achievement for all learners.
• Learn how to learn.
• Develop multicultural perspectives and understanding.
• Know how to use technology to enhance learning. For example, students use LiveText to:
  • Create e -portfolios and share them with professors, classmates, and employers
  • Instantly review instructor's feedback
  • Create and share knowledge in collaborative learning groups

In order to meet the NYSED requirements for initial certification, teacher candidates must take the following NYSTE examinations:

New York State Teacher Examinations:

• CST-Content Specialty Test
• EAS- Educating All Students
• edTPA-Teacher Performance Assessment

New York State Mandated Workshops:

• Child Abuse Identification
• School Violence Intervention and Prevention (SAVE)
• Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)

Fingerprinting/Background Check:

• Program candidates applying for Initial certification must complete the fingerprinting/background check. Fingerprinting information can be obtained from the Division of Education office.

NYSED - Teacher certification acceptable grades policy: Only courses with a grade of C or above for undergraduate level courses will be acceptable in meeting the content core and pedagogical core requirements.