Concentration - Child Studies
The Concentrations in Child Studies are designed for early childhood education professionals
who seek to make a positive difference in the lives of young children. These concentrations
focus on preparing professionals to work with children in a variety of early childhood
settings. They are designed to develop skills and knowledge to address the physical,
cognitive, intellectual, language, social/emotional, and creative needs of young children.
Child Studies is an option for students who want to work in an early childhood setting
and/or go on to a Master of Education or a certification program to teach in a public
school setting. This concentration requires a minimum of 39 credits.
Concentration Requirements:
| Requirement |
Credits |
Examples |
| Child Development |
3 credits |
|
| Sociology of the Family |
3 credits |
|
| Psychology of Exceptional Children |
3 credits |
|
| Research Methods |
3 credits |
|
| Completion of credits earned in the areas listed to the right. |
9 credits |
Early Childhood Practicum, Early Childhood Methods, Behavior Management in EC Professionals,
Early Childhood Music, Children's Literature, Special needs
|
| Completion of credits from the Social Science areas listed to the right. |
15 credits |
Typical/Atypical Development, Family Studies, or another area related to child studies
proposed by the student and approved by the faculty. Courses should not have an education
designation.
|
| Capstone |
3 credits |
ECE 499 (Culminating course in concentration) |
| TOTAL |
39 |
|
| Pre-requisite: Introduction to Early Childhood Education |
|
|
| Pre-requisite: Introduction to Psychology |
|
|
| Pre-requisite: Introduction to Sociology |
|
|
| Co-requisite: A nutrition course taken in the science department, such as BIO 105
Introduction to Nutrition, or a course taken at a community college such as Health
Safety and Nutrition.
|
|
|
Notes: Only grades of C of higher may be included in the concentration.
Students interested in continuing on to a Master's Degree in Education or a Certificate
Program should take a minimum of 18 credits in typical/atypical, child and human development.
Out of state residents should contact their State Department of Education for current
state certification requirements.
Out of state residents interested in teacher certification should check with their
State Departments of Education for current specific course requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a concentration in Child Studies will be able to:
- apply knowledge of typical and atypical development in children to create positive
learning environments;
- describe the diverse and complex characteristics of families and communities to establish
respectful, reciprocal relationships that help to empower families;
- explain the value of observing children as a means of assessing their development;
- select and design developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities to promote
positive development and learning for children;
- apply current research and literature in the field to practice; and
- value ongoing continuous professional development.
