Early Childhood Education
This program focuses on preparing teachers for preschool, kindergarten, and the early primary grades (one through two) of the elementary school. The early childhood educator helps young children with a range of abilities and special needs develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Graduates of the program qualify for the early childhood license with pre-kindergarten special education approval.
- EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
- EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
- EPSY 201—Educational Psychology
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
This program prepares student candidates to teach birth to grade 2.
- Acceptance of diversity
- Caring and accepting attitude
- Flexibility
- Self-awareness
- Skills in critical thinking
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Camp Counselor
- Elementary School Teaching Assistant
- Family Child Care Provider
- Home Visitor
- Infant Care Director
- Infant Care Teacher
- Nanny
- Parent Educator
- Pediatric Nurse
- Preschool Director
- Preschool Teacher
- Public School Aide
- Recreational Leader
- School Age Teacher
- Site Supervisor of Preschool/School Age Programs
Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.
- Participating in undergraduate research
- Applying for a study abroad experience
- Utilizing resources of The Career Center
- Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta Professional Teaching Organization: informs and involves future teachers in the changing field of education.
- Student Education Association: provides pre-professional educational development for future teachers.
- The Minority Association of Future Educators (MAFE): mission is to provide a support network for underrepresented students seeking to become professional educators and to address the educational needs of children, with an emphasis on children from underrepresented groups.
There are several professional organizations dedicated to Early Childhood Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Early Childhood Education. These organizations include National Association for the Education of Young Children, Association for Childhood Education International, and Professional Association for Childhood Education.