About the Program
This degree program is intended for individuals with a calling and a deep passion for influencing young lives in grades pre-kindergarten through third grade by preparing students to be leaders, workers, and citizens in an ever-changing society. Faculty members provide mentoring as candidates become highly qualified to teach in their area of interest and passion. This degree is recognized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the South Carolina Department of Education.
As an Early Childhood Education major, you will learn to understand young children’s characteristics and learn how to create healthy, respectful, supportive and challenging environments for all children. You will gain understanding of the importance and complex characteristics of children’s families and communities, and then use this understanding to create respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families. You will learn about the goals, benefits, and uses of assessment, observations, documentation and other effective assessment strategies in a responsible way. In partnership with families and other professionals, you will also learn how to positively influence children’s development and learning, how to exercise a Christian Ethic of Care in an educational setting, and how to integrate faith and life experiences when working with children and families.
You might consider an Early Childhood Education major if you want to contribute to the academic success of young children during an important time when they are developing their personality and social skills, understand that the needs of younger children are much different from older learners, and enjoy interacting with young children.
