SWU offering new degree in Early Childhood and Family Studies
The BS in early childhood and family studies is an interdisciplinary program where students will acquire the values, knowledge, skills and dispositions within a “Christian ethic of care” necessary to positively impact contemporary families in the areas of early childhood and family studies.
The degree will help prepare the graduate to qualify for jobs in Head Start, or jobs in public or private schools or family service organizations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a growth in demand for preschool teachers by 17 percent from 2012 to 2022.
The new degree will initially be offered at the Central campus, according to Dr. Sandra McLendon, dean of the School of Education.
“This degree fills a growing need for early childhood care outside the realms of certification in the public schools,” McLendon said. “The degree will initially be offered on the Central campus. Plans are to offer the degree within the next year in the online distance learning format.”
Early Childhood and Family Studies students will:
- Know and understand young children’s characteristics and needs and the multiple influences on development and learning.
- Know and understand family and community characteristics and support them through respectful and reciprocal relationships.
- Understand the goals, benefits and uses of assessment and practice responsible assessment.
- Use content knowledge to build meaningful curriculum in all curriculum areas.
- Uphold ethical standards and professional guidelines and engage in informed advocacy for young children, their families and the early childhood profession.
For details about the BS in Early Childhood and Family Studies and other degrees offered by Southern Wesleyan’s School of Education, contact Dr. Sandra McLendon at (864) 644-5354, email or go online to swu.edu/degrees.
With regional education centers conveniently located across South Carolina, as well as fully online programs for select degrees, Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community devoted to transforming lives by challenging students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, visit swu.edu.