The program in early childhood education consists of an academic major in Early Childhood Education and a sequence of professional certification courses that lead to dual endorsements for teacher licensure Pre-K through third grade and K-8th grade. Upon completion of the program, candidates can work in childcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, and primary grades in public schools. The course work offers a combination of theory, methods, and field experiences in a variety of early childhood education settings.
Students seeking a bachelor's degree with teacher certification and an endorsement in early childhood education (P-3) and K-8th grade licensure must complete the General University Requirements, the Early Childhood Education (P-3) Major, and the professional education coursework.
Why Consider an Early Childhood Education P-3 with Elementary Education Option Major?
The Early Childhood Education (P-3) major has several unique program features:
- Students attend classes with other early childhood education students as a cohort group throughout the program.
- Students gain experience in teaching children in three age groups (infant/toddlers, pre-primary and primary) and in a variety of settings.
- Students are taught to understand and respect intercultural/familial diversity as they learn to develop partnerships with families.
- Students learn to use inquiry tools and process for developing meaningful and integrated learning experiences for young children.