The School of Education is no longer accepting applications for this program.
The Early Childhood Education Program prepares students to teach young children (birth to age 8) and to work collaboratively with their families and other professionals. Students will develop skills for employment in public and private schools and centers, homes, and other facilities in which children within this age range and their families are served. Through coursework and field experiences with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and primary-aged children, students acquire competence in the use of developmentally appropriate practices. Special emphasis is placed on understanding and respecting family diversity, supporting families in their roles with young children, and addressing the needs of children with special needs in inclusive settings. The program is designed for full-time study, but may be adapted for part-time study.
The Early Childhood Certification Program is intended for individuals from a wide-range of undergraduate backgrounds including: Communications Science and Disorders, Psychology, Child Care/Child Development, Law, Business, Social Work, or other related fields of study who wish to pursue careers as Early Childhood Educators. The program follows the personnel recommendations established by the Association for Teacher Educators (ATE), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and the Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children (DEC).
A student who successfully completes the program, including the PRAXIS I and II Exams, and complete the PA Statewide Evaluation Form for Student Professional Knowledge and Practice (PDE 430) is eligible to apply for a Pennsylvania Instructional I Certificate for Nursery School - Grade 3.