Early Childhood (B.S.Ed.) - Birth To Age 5 (Non-Licensure)

Program: B.S.Ed.
School of Education  

Neff Hall 240 ~ 260-481-4146

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The Early Childhood Education Birth to Age 5 program shapes the next generation of educators, preparing skilled teachers to facilitate learning experiences in diverse and inclusive environments. Our program is child-centered and dedicated to the development and learning of all young children ages birth to 5 using current theoretical frameworks and culturally relevant practices. Your skills will always be in demand and your expertise will truly make the difference in the life of a child.

PREPARATION
As a bachelor-completion program, preparation for this career at Purdue University Fort Wayne begins with the acquisition of an Associate of Science in early childhood education.  Most students acquire the A.S. at Ivy Tech Community College.

The early childhood education bachelor-completion program has two options: birth through age five (preschool only) and preschool through grade three (preschool-primary). The latter option affords students the opportunity to earn a teaching license through the Indiana Department of Education. If you are interested in the preschool through grade three program, please see the Early Childhood (B.S.Ed.) - Preschool to Grade 3 (Licensure)  program.  The curriculum for both options includes classroom instruction and work experiences in local early childhood settings, and addresses the developmental and learning capabilities and needs of children from birth through age eight. Coursework will include:

• Child growth and development
• Family and community relationships
• Designing generous, amiable, engaging, and developmental environments for young children

You will spend time in classrooms under the supervision of highly qualified teachers and supervisors, interacting with children in each of the three age groups in at least two settings (e.g., childcare, Head Start). Your studies will also provide a solid background in the liberal arts.

To earn the B.S.Ed. in early childhood education, you must satisfy the requirements of Purdue Fort Wayne (Regulations ) and the School of Education.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of a major in Early Childhood students will:

• understand child development, multiple influences on it, and how to use this information to create challenging learning environments
• create and value reciprocal relationships with children’s families and community members to support children.
• use child observation, documentation, and other forms of assessment in responsible ways to positively influence the development of every child
• know, understand, and use a wide array of developmentally appropriate approaches, instructional strategies, and tools to faciliate development and learning
• use knowledge of academic disciplines to design, implement, and evaluate experiences that promote positive development and learning for every young child
• demonstrate being a member of the early childhood profession who uses ethical guidelines and professional standards; is a continuous, collaborative learner; reflects on practice; and is an informed advocate. 

Accreditation

Our education programs are accredited through CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation).  We are nationally recognized as a high-quality program through the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Program Delivery

This program is available online with some courses also available on campus.

Declaring This Major

You must declare this major with the School of Education.