Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education
Launch your career as an expert in education and child development with your Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Ashford University. You will discover all the wonder of Early Childhood Education as you learn ways to apply your knowledge and skills to your career.
Degree Focus
Your Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education allows you to complete coursework in childhood development, curricula, and program development. When you complete the required coursework, you will be well acquainted with the education industry, be highly trained in various theories of childhood development, and exhibit advanced instructional skills.
Career Opportunities
When you complete your Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, you will have what you need to begin a rewarding career in which a breadth of knowledge is a must. A degree in Early Childhood Education could be your key to any of these occupations:
- Daycare provider
- Social worker
- Camp counselor
- Recreation worker
- Teacher assistant
- Human services
Certification / Licensure Terms and Conditions
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education program does not lead to certification or licensure. Completing the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education by itself will not qualify a student for certification or licensure in any state. It is the student's responsibility to determine individual state licensure requirements for teacher certification or licensure. Please refer to the Education Resource Organizations Directory (EROD) page for individual state requirements for teacher certification or licensure. Please be advised that states change their policies from time to time and students are advised to check with their state regulatory agencies' policies and procedures relating to licensure in that state on a regular basis. Further, a criminal record may prevent an applicant from obtaining licensure, certification or employment in this field of study. For additional information, please refer to your state licensing board or agency.
Specialization
You may also choose to delve into another area of early childhood education when you add a specialization to your degree program. A specialization consists of four (4) courses, each worth three (3) credits. These courses are taught online as part of your degree program. For more detailed information, see the Courses tab. This program offers the following specialization:
Infant and Toddler Care
Learn to provide quality care for infants and small children. You will contribute to the healthy growth of children by earning your specialization in Infant and Toddler Care.
Your courses in this Bachelor of Arts degree program are taught by advance-degreed instructors with real-world experience in the subjects they teach. In addition, you can transfer up to 90 approved credits toward your Bachelor's degree and accelerate your degree completion.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education
Program Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education degree program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of child development principles, including cognitive, language, physical and affective domains, in creating environments that are healthy, supportive, and challenging for children;
- Analyze the influence and impact of families and communities on a child’s learning and development;
- Design and assessment developmentally appropriate strategies and programs promoting positive development and learning for children;
- Identify components of personnel management in the recruiting, hiring, and maintenance of staff in quality child care settings; and
- Demonstrate knowledge of fiscal, legal, ethical, and program requirements in a quality child care settings.
Program Requirements
- Total number of credits required: 120 credits
- General Education Requirements: 52 credits
- Major Course Requirements: 39 credits
- Electives: 29 credits
Students must earn a minimum of 30 upper-division credits and a minimum of 21 credits at Ashford University® (residency requirement).
Program Disclosures
Federal regulations published in October, 2010 require institutions to report certain information about students who enrolled in Title IV eligible educational programs that lead to gainful employment in a recognized occupation (GE programs). These required disclosures include a program’s 1) program costs; 2) on-time completion rates; 3) median loan debt; 4) links to O*NET SOC descriptions; and 5) placement rates. Please find all of the required information at this link: Program Disclosures.
Admission Requirements
- Have a regular high-school diploma earned through college preparatory or regular high school courses or GED equivalency recognized by the Department of Education of the state in which it was earned, completed secondary school through home schooling as defined by state law, or earned an equivalent to a US high school diploma at an international high school. An earned IEP or Special Education Diploma or Certificate of Completion based upon IEP goals does not meet the regular high school diploma requirement for admission to Ashford University. If no high school degree was earned, applicants may be admitted with a minimum of 60 transferable credits from an appropriately accredited postsecondary institution as defined by Ashford University transfer credit policies.
- Be 22 years of age or older, or a graduate of Ashford University's Associate of Arts in Business degree program, or receive documented approval from the Registrar's Office via the "Under 22 Appeal" process.
- English Language Requirement
- Successful completion of Student Success Orientation for students who indicate that they have fewer than twenty-four (24) traditional college-level transferable credits at the time of application.
Technology Requirements
Competencies
Students must possess the following online competencies:
- Ability to access course and program material on the Internet;
- Ability to correspond with University staff, students, and faculty using email and the Internet; and
- Ability to use appropriate antivirus utilities so that files transmitted and received are virus free.
System requirements
The following minimum system configuration and software are required:
- Platforms: Mac OS X 10.2 or higher or Windows XP or higher;
- Hardware: 256 Mb RAM, CD-ROM, and 1 Gb free disk space;
- Productivity Software: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2003 or higher; Adobe Reader 8.0 or higher; Adobe Flash 10 or higher (Constellation users);
- Web Browser: Firefox 3.0 or higher, Internet Explorer 8.0 or higher, Safari 4.0 or higher, or Chrome;
- Networking: 56k dialup modem, DSL, or Cable modem;
- Email: Outlook, Outlook Express, Mac Mail, Eudora, Entourage, or Yahoo/Hotmail/Gmail.
Recommended for optimal performance
- Productivity Software: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2007 or higher;
- Networking: Broadband Internet connection (DSL, cable, or other);
- Constellation users: Windows Media Player 7 or higher, sound card and speakers.
Transferability
Put your college credits to work at Ashford! You can transfer up to 99 semester credits (148.5 quarter credits) to help fulfill your degree requirements.* That means all your past hard work will not be wasted.
If you enter the program with fewer than twenty-four (24) transferable traditional semester credits, you will be required to successfully complete an online orientation prior to enrolling in credit-bearing coursework. Following successful completion of orientation, you will be required to successfully complete EXP 105 Personal Dimensions of Education as your first course. EXP 105 is required if you have little or no previous college experience and is not recommended if you have high transfer credit. EXP 105 applies toward elective credit requirements so enrollment in EXP 105 may result in the reduction of three (3) potential transfer credits in the Elective category. If you take EXP 105, you are required to take PSY 202 as your second course.
If you enter the program with twenty-four (24) or more transferable credits, you will be required to successfully complete PSY 202 Adult Development and Life Assessment as your first course. PSY 202 is designed to help you acclimate to the online college environment, though you already have some college experience. If you have been out of school for a long time or feel that you need additional support to enter the online environment, you may appeal to enroll in EXP 105 as your first course, followed by PSY 202 as your second course. Unsuccessful completion of either EXP 105 or PSY 202 will result in the rescheduling of the course and revision of the future course sequence. See the Courses tab for descriptions of each course.
* The transferability of credits is subject to Ashford University’s transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. The official transcripts will be evaluated to determine the credits that will officially apply toward an Ashford University degree program.
Online Format
You will take your courses one at a time for 5 weeks each, accelerating your path to graduation. Your course content is delivered in a high-tech format, and you can complete your weekly assignments when and where it's convenient for you thanks to the asynchronous online environment.
Cost*
Your tuition rates are among the lowest available online at $390 per credit. You will also be responsible for fees to enroll. View complete cost of attendance. Call today to learn more at 866.711.1700.
* Tuition costs subject to change without notice.
Payment Options
- Cash Plan – 100% of tuition and fees paid on or before each course start date.
- Tuition Reimbursement – If your employer offers a tuition reimbursement plan, we'll work with you to apply this great benefit toward your education.
- Financial Aid – You may be eligible for financial aid. Talk to an Admissions Counselor to find out if you meet the requirements to qualify.
- Direct (Employer) Billing – If you work for a company approved for direct billing, you may qualify for this payment option.
- Military Tuition Assistance – Includes active-duty service and Veterans Affairs benefits, such as GI Bill and Vocational Rehab, if you qualify. Learn more about military benefits.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education
Strengthen your skills while enhancing your understanding of the many aspects of children's development and education. With your Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education degree, you will discover all the wonder of Early Childhood Education as you learn ways to apply your knowledge and skills to your career. Courses cover several relevant topics, from children's development and language acquisition to the impact of parents and communities on childhood education.
Below you will find the courses for this program beginning with the introductory courses. You have a choice between taking a standard program that follows the major course requirements, or you may choose to add a specialization. Please note that you must complete the major course requirements' capstone course before beginning a specialization. A specialization consists of four (4) courses, each worth three (3) credits.
Introductory Courses
Major Course Requirements
Specialization – Infant and Toddler Care
Introductory Courses
Depending on the number of credits transferred in, you may be required to take one or both of Ashford University's introductory courses: EXP 105 Personal Dimensions of Education and PSY 202 Adult Development & Life Assessment. If you enter the program with fewer than twenty-four (24) transferable credits, you are required to successfully complete EXP 105 as your first course, followed by PSY 202 as your second course. If you enter the program with twenty-four (24) or more transferable credits, you will be required to successfully complete PSY 202 as your first course.
EXP 105 Personal Dimensions of Education
This course is designed to help adult learners beginning their university studies to achieve academic success. Students will explore learning theories, communication strategies, and personal management skills. Adult learners will develop strategies for achieving success in school and work. Students will also be introduced to the University's institutional outcomes and learning resources.
PSY 202 Adult Development & Life Assessment
This course presents adult development theory and links theoretical concepts of life and learning through a process of psychometric assessment and reflection. Both classical and contemporary adult development theories are examined. These theories then provide the paradigm for self-analysis and life learning, including a plan for personal, professional and academic learning.
Major Course Requirements
(39 credits. all courses are 3 credits. Courses are listed in the recommended sequence.)
ECE 101 Introduction to Early Childhood Education
This course provides an overview of the field of early childhood education including history, philosophy, advocacy, public policy, issues, trends, and careers.
ECE 214 Nutrition & Health of Children & Families
This course provides a study of the health and nutrition needs of children and families.
ECE 332 Child Development
This course provides a basic introduction to the nature of human growth and development as it occurs from conception through early childhood. Students learn about motor, cognitive, social, emotional, moral, aesthetic, and language development in early childhood.
SOC 312 Child, Family & Society
This course provides an overview of the child (infant through elementary) and the reciprocal relationships children develop with their family, their school, and the world in which they live. Theories pertaining to the roles and relationships within and between families, schools, and communities are introduced with an emphasis on enabling students to identify family needs and concerns and to use a variety of collaborative communication and problem-solving skills to assist families in finding the best available community resources to meet these needs. Students themselves explore various community resources that further the development of the child's potential.
PED 212 Foundations of Movement & Motor Activities
Students will examine integrated movement curriculum and the relationship between knowledge, motor skills, and movement activities. Activities will lead to understanding of how the body is used during fundamental motor skills and the progression to more advanced movement. Emphasis is on the study of human movement and the development of motor skills which enhance health related physical fitness. Movement concepts of body awareness, space, and quality of movement are defined. Fundamental movement skills are analyzed and used as a basis for planning physical education coursework.
ECE 315 Language Development in Young Children
This course provides an introduction to the developmental stages of language acquisition in young children from birth to the age of 6. The focus of the course is on the facilitation of language acquisition in young children.
ECE 311 Early Childhood Curriculum & Methods
This course focuses on curriculum development in early childhood and teaching strategies with a developmentally appropriate approach. Students will prepare curriculum and practice teaching strategies which illustrate the characteristics of play and creativity. The guidance of young children to include behavior management and creating positive learning environments will also be emphasized.
ECE 335 Children's Literature
Students learn how to select and use children's books and other media relating to physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of babies and preschool-aged children.
ESE 315 Survey of Exceptional Students
An investigation into the theories, skills, and attitudes needed to identify and instruct students with disabilities in varied school settings. Attention will be given to the variety of categories of disabilities that special educators are likely to come into contact with. Students will examine the issues of providing services to identified individuals within and outside school settings.
ECE 313 Collaboration with Parents & Community
Factors that promote effective communication and collaboration with parents of babies and preschool-aged children, families and community resources are considered in this course.
ECE 312 Administration of Early Childhood Education Programs
This course focuses on the development and implementation of early childhood programs for a variety of age groups and purposes. Specifically, curriculum development, materials, teaching strategies, evaluation, budgets, hiring procedures and state guidelines/regulations are addressed as are the skills and competencies to implement the above.
ECE 405 Children & Families in a Diverse Society
This course will provide a clear and practical introduction to multicultural and anti-bias issues, and aid students in developing culturally relevant methods in working with children and families in early childhood settings.
ECE 430 Early Childhood Education Capstone
This is the capstone course for the Early Childhood Education and the Early Childhood Education Administration Major, to be taken at the completion of the major courses. This course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their learning from the course of study for Early Childhood Education in a comprehensive manner. Students will reflect on the courses taken and develop an understanding on the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) standards, developmentally appropriate practices based upon child development research, center-based curriculum and professionalism. This course will culminate with a comprehensive final project that integrates the student learning throughout the program as well as a final exam that covers the program learning outcomes.
Specialization
You may also choose to delve deeper into another area of early childhood education when you add a specialization to your degree program. A specialization consists of four (4) courses, each worth three (3) credits. These courses are taught online as part of your degree program. This program offers the following specialization:
Infant and Toddler Care
ECE 341 Social & Emotional Growth of Infants & Toddlers
Social-emotional development including the management of emotions and the ability to establish positive relationships with others will be covered in this course. Students will learn the important elements in a childcare setting that support healthy social, emotional, and behavioral adjustment in infants and toddlers.
ECE 343 Quality Care Environments for Infants & Toddlers
Students will learn both theory and application of why and how to set up, arrange and change early childhood learning environments to effectively meet the developmental needs of very young children. The role of the teacher, the importance of the environment, design principles, health and safety will be covered in this course.
ECE 345 Infant & Toddler Learning & Development
Emphasis will be placed on effective activities and practices to promote language development, cognitive development and motor skill development in young children. Sensory, music and movement development will also be covered in this course. Appropriate behavior teaching and coaching for infants, toddlers and two year olds will be discussed.
ECE 347 Culture, Family & Childcare
This course will increase the students' expertise and understanding of all the components that must work together to create an effective childcare setting in which all children can thrive. Elements to be covered in the planning of a childcare environment include discipline and behavior management as well as consideration of the child's developmental level, the family and cultural context.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Ashford University Program Disclosures
Federal regulations published in October, 2010 require institutions to report certain information about students who enrolled in Title IV eligible educational programs that lead to gainful employment in a recognized occupation (GE programs). These required disclosures include a program’s 1) program costs; 2) on-time completion rates; 3) median loan debt; 4) links to O*NET SOC descriptions; and 5) placement rates. Please find all of the required information contained below.
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