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major in early childhood education

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies, Early Childhood Education Program Overview

Pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education may be the right path for you if you have a passion for working with young children and helping them learn and grow. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, you have the knowledge and training necessary to pursue a career in early childhood education.

Department:

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Department chair name:

Amy Downey
Ed.D.

Program Coordinator:

Dr. Sharen Cypress

Learning at FHU

Why study early childhood education at FHU?

Embarking on a Bachelor’s Degree for Early Childhood Education from Freed-Hardeman University will equip you with all the necessary skills to become a well-rounded educator. Beyond theoretical knowledge, this program delves deep into the practical aspects of a child’s physical, cognitive, language, social, emotional, and creative development. You will not only be equipped with the technical skills needed in today’s classroom environment but will also have the opportunity to put them into practice in public school settings.

Early childhood education degrees focus on teaching education students about early childhood development so they can serve in early childhood education positions with understanding and empathy.

Program Highlights:

  • Get an accredited degree in Early Childhood Education
  • Develop a well-rounded understanding of a child’s development
  • Engaging practical learning opportunities in real school settings
  • Strong job prospects in the field
  • Receive support from experienced faculty
  • Recognize potential learning obstacles and find creative solutions

Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Degree Four-Year Plans

Through a four-year plan that includes child development, curriculum design, and classroom management courses, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge necessary to help children reach their full potential. Join the team at Freed-Hardeman and start your journey toward a meaningful career in early childhood education today!

FHU Promise strives to help students and families with limited resources afford quality education with reduced payments and financial aid services.

Careers for Early Childhood Education Majors

Choosing a career path after completing a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can be exciting and fulfilling. As an early childhood educator, you will be satisfied knowing that you are making a significant impact on the lives of young children. With licensure, you can teach young learners from PreK-3 grades, which is a memorable and rewarding experience. With the vast array of options available for early childhood education majors, you will find a fulfilling and uplifting career path that matches your interests and passions. Possible careers for early childhood education majors include:

  • Preschool Teacher
  • Childcare Center Director
  • Daycare Provider
  • Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
  • Kindergarten Teacher
  • Early Intervention Specialist
  • Child Advocate
  • Childhood Curriculum

Major in Early Childhood Education Degree Requirements

This program prepares students to obtain PreK-3 licensure by completing the Professional Core, which includes an entire semester of integrated professional practicum experience and a student teaching semester in public school settings. The excitement and energy that comes with watching young children learn and grow is exceptional, and graduates of this program will be fully equipped to guide their future students along that path.

I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements

Listed in the catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Core
Limit III. A. Behavioral Sciences to SOC241 General Sociology
Limit III. B. BIO: 100, 105, 110, 111, 112, or 211 (must include related lab)
Limit III. C. 1. History to HIS221 American History I or HIS222 American History II
Limit III. C. 2. Critical and Creative Works to Literature (ENG: 215, 225, or 235)
Limit III. C. 3. Humanities Capstone to HUM495 Values in Human Thought and Action

II. Additional Liberal Arts Core Requirements for the Major - 6-7 hours
A.  Choose one (1) of the following Fine Arts Courses:  3 hours 
ART110  Art Appreciation (3)
ART201 Introduction to Photography (3)
ART234  Introduction to Creativity (W) (3)
MUS110  Music Appreciation (3)
MUS214  Development of American Music (3)
THE160  Introduction to Theatre (3)
THE265  Acting I (3)
THE299A New York Theatre Survey (3)
     

B.  Choose one (1) of the following options:

(must include related lab) 

 

3-4 hours
PHS111  Physical Science I   OR (3)
PHS112  Physical Science II (3)
OR    
CHE121  General Chemistry I   WITH (3)
CHE121L General Chemistry I Lab  (1)
III. Major Professional Core for Elementary Education (PreK-3) - 46 hours
EDU130 Introduction to Education (W)
EDU250 Professional Reflective Seminar I  2
SPE240  Special Education Foundations (W) 
 
Must be admitted to Teacher Education to take the following:
EDU310 Literacy I: Emergent Literacy Methods Across Content Areas 3
EDU311 Literacy II: Literature and Literacy (W) 3
EDU320 Technology in the Classroom 3
EDU327 Tests and Measurement 3
EDU330  Teaching Mathematics: Methods, Strategies, and Techniques  3
EDU350*  Professional Reflective Seminar II  1
EDU415*  Literacy IV: Teaching Methods Across Content Areas
EDU428* Classroom Management 2
RDG312  Literacy III: Teaching Literacy 
*These courses must be taken the semester prior to student teaching.  
Must be admitted to Student Teaching to take the following:  
EDU444 Student Teaching, PreK-3 12
EDU450 Professional Reflection & Planning 1
     
IV. Additional Required Courses: 39-42 hours 
FAM201 Child Development and Lab 
FAM230  Marriage and the Family 
FAM305  Childhood Disorders 
FAM310 Developmental Psychology 
FAM331  Parenting and Family Relations (W)
FAM335  Human Sexuality 
HEA216 Personal Health 3
MAT206 Real Number System 3
POL231  American Government 
SOC445  Ethnic Cultures 
SPA131  Elementary Spanish I 
SPA132 Elementary Spanish II
  Math or Natural Science Elective (upper-division)  
Plus one (1) of the following:
 
0-3 hours 
HEA217  First Aid and CPR    OR  (3)
  First Aid/Red Cross Certification  (0)
IV. Electives (including additional Bible) - 1-7 hours

Frequently Asked Questions About a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at FHU

Below are answers to questions prospective students often have when considering a major in Early Childhood Education. If you have additional questions or need more information, please contact [email protected] and they will happily answer questions and provide additional details about our program

What is a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education at FHU?

The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is a comprehensive program that prepares students to become effective educators for young children. The program is designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to create engaging and effective learning environments for young children.

Here are some key features of the Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education program at FHU:

  1. Comprehensive curriculum: The program includes a wide range of courses in child development, curriculum design, assessment, classroom management, and more. Students learn about the latest research and best practices in early childhood education and develop strategies for teaching young children across various subjects.
  2. Practical experience: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with opportunities for students to work with young children in real-world settings such as classrooms, childcare centers, and community organizations. Students gain practical experience and develop their teaching skills under the guidance of experienced educators.
  3. State-of-the-art facilities: FHU has state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated early childhood education lab with the latest educational technology and resources. Students can access cutting-edge equipment and practice their teaching skills in classroom settings.
  4. Expert faculty: The early childhood education program at FHU is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their field. They provide students with real-world insights and practical advice on how to succeed as early childhood educators.
  5. Professional development: The program includes opportunities for students to participate in professional development activities, such as workshops, conferences, and networking events. These activities help students stay up-to-date with emerging trends and best practices in early childhood education and connect with other professionals.

The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education program at FHU provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them to become effective educators for young children. With a comprehensive curriculum, practical experience, state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and professional development opportunities, students can develop their teaching skills and launch successful careers in early childhood education.

How is the job market for Early Childhood Education majors at FHU?

The job market for Early Childhood Education (ECE) majors varies depending on location, industry, and other factors. However, in general, the job outlook for graduates is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 15% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also notes that demand for high-quality early childhood education programs is increasing, particularly as research continues to show the importance of early childhood education in preparing children for success in school and beyond.

In addition to teaching positions, education majors may find employment in related fields such as childcare administration, social work, and family services. According to the BLS, employment of childcare workers is projected to grow 2% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. The BLS also notes that demand for early childhood education programs and services is influenced by population growth, increased emphasis on early learning, and government funding.

While job prospects for early childhood education students are generally positive, it’s important to note that salaries for education professionals can vary widely depending on location, level of education, and experience. However, many professionals find their work rewarding and fulfilling and are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young children.

What are the benefits of an Early Childhood Education degree at FHU?

An Early Childhood Education bachelor’s degree at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) offers several benefits to students seeking a career in this field. Here are some of the key benefits of obtaining an Early Childhood Education degree at FHU:

  1. Comprehensive curriculum: The Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education program at FHU provides students with a comprehensive education that covers topics such as child development, curriculum design, assessment, classroom management, and more. Students learn about the latest research and best practices in early childhood education and develop strategies for teaching young children across various subjects.
  2. Hands-on learning opportunities: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to work with young children in real-world settings such as classrooms, childcare centers, and community organizations. Students gain practical experience and develop their teaching skills under the guidance of experienced educators.
  3. State-of-the-art facilities: FHU has state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated early childhood education lab with the latest educational technology and resources. Students can access cutting-edge equipment and practice their teaching skills in natural classroom settings.
  4. Expert faculty: The Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education program at FHU is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. They provide students with real-world insights and practical advice on how to succeed as early childhood educators.
  5. Professional development opportunities: The program includes opportunities for students to participate in professional development activities such as workshops, conferences, and networking events. These activities help students stay up-to-date with emerging trends and best practices in early childhood education and connect with other professionals.

An Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education degree at FHU provides students with a comprehensive education and practical experience needed to become effective educators of young children. With hands-on learning opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and professional development opportunities, students can develop their teaching skills and launch successful careers in early childhood education.

How long does it take to complete a Bachelor's Degree for Early Childhood Education at FHU?

The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education program at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) typically takes four years. This assumes that students enroll in full-time coursework each semester and complete all required courses within the prescribed timeline.

The program has 126 credit hours, including general education requirements and major-specific courses. Students take courses in child development, curriculum design, assessment, classroom management, and more. They also have opportunities for hands-on learning experiences through practicum and student teaching experiences.

It’s important to note that the time to complete the program may vary depending on individual circumstances, such as part-time enrollment or transfer credits from prior coursework. FHU also offers a 4+1 program that allows students to earn both a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in five years. This program requires an additional year of coursework beyond the four-year Bachelor’s Degree program.

The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education program at FHU is designed to be completed in four years of full-time study. However, the program is flexible enough to accommodate various schedules and circumstances, and students should work closely with academic advisors to ensure they are on track to complete their degrees on time.

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