Early Childhood and Elementary Education
About the Programs
The four-year programs in Early Childhood (PreK-4) is designed to offer students a curriculum of general education and professional and early childhood education theory, application, and practice in teaching children. The curriculum is designed to develop a community of learners who are competent and reflective professionals able to teach any child in any setting.
The courses and extensive field based component develops beginning educator’s knowledge, skills, and dispositions relevant to content, the learner and the learning environment, teaching and learning process, and professionalism.
Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Track I program will be eligible to apply for certification to teach in Pre-K to grade 4. Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Track II program will be prepared to work in a variety of education fields not requiring certification. Students interested in this age level can also combine preparation for Special Education certification with Early Childhood (PreK-4) Certification (see Special Education major (p. 1) for details).
Are you interested in ...
- Working with children
- Teaching others
- Using your creativity
Choose Early Childhood at ESU
- Qualified, experienced faculty
- Practical experience
- Accredited by NCATE
Is Early Childhood a career path for me?
Career Potential
- Preschool teacher
- Kindergarten teacher
- Elementary school teacher
- Educational Consultant
- Daycare Owner