Fact Sheet 07: Early Childhood Education

Revised June 2007

Early Childhood Education

The primary mission of the teacher education programs at West Chester University is to prepare and develop educational professionals to meet diverse students' needs. Such programs assist you, as a student, in learning and effectively using a variety of teaching strategies. With these techniques you, as a teacher, can help make learning a meaningful experience for children.

The department's programs support the growth and development of pre- and in-service teachers. The building of effective teaching practices is a continuous process that includes direct experience in learning situations, analysis and reflection, and a commitment to life-long learning and to the profession.

Career Opportunities

The early childhood education program qualifies you, as a graduate, to teach preschool, kindergarten, and grades one through three. Completing this program also qualifies you to teach, administer, and manage child-care centers and nursery schools.

Graduates of the University have obtained teaching assignments in schools across the nation, in the Peace Corps, and in American schools abroad. Many have pursued advanced degrees at institutions with strong graduate programs in education.

Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor of Science in Education - Early Childhood Education. This program is designed to provide you with the special preparation required for early childhood education careers in public or private settings and in supervisory work in nonpublic early childhood programs. Graduates qualify for a Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate, which is valid for six years of teaching in preschool, kindergarten, and grades one through three.

The program includes field experiences and a full semester of student teaching during the senior year. These experiences are usually undertaken in public and private schools in the greater Philadelphia area. Double majors in early childhood education and special education or early childhood education and elementary education are offered. These options lead to dual certification in the respective areas.

Minor

Early Childhood Education

Typical Courses

Administration and Supervision of Early Childhood Programs
Child Development
Diversity Issues in Early Childhood
Infant Learning Environment and Field Experience
Integrated Learning in Kindergarten
Introduction to the Language Arts
Orientation to Early Childhood
Preschool Learning Environment
Social Studies and Sciences in Primary Grades

Special Study Opportunities

You will have the opportunity to participate in the National Student Exchange Program, spending a semester at a participating college or university in the United States. You also may elect to have one student teaching assignment in the Study Abroad Program.

Students in our program tutor youngsters in the local community, and you are encouraged to volunteer for work in children's programs.

Faculty

You can obtain a complete listing of faculty and their academic qualifications for this program from the contact person listed below.

For More Information

Dr. Vicki McGinley, Chairperson
Department of Early Childhood and Special Education
305A Recitation Hall
West Chester University
West Chester, PA 19383
610-436-2579