The Early Childhood Studies program prepares knowledgeable professionals who are strongly prepared to work with young children and their families. The program is designed to promote understandings of child development and psychological processes; the ways sociological, historical, philosophical, political and cultural factors contribute to varied learning, development and educational opportunity; ethics; and practices that support emotional, social and cognitive development, including creativity, reflection, critical thinking and problem solving.
The program itself does not result in teaching certification or endorsement. However, program completers who hold elementary education teaching certificates are eligible to take the MTTC subject area test for the Specialist (ZS) endorsement. Students in the program who work in qualified preschool education programs are eligible to apply for the T.E.A.C.H. grant to support their education.
