IMPORTANT NOTE:
After December 2012, PDE initial teacher certification in the Early Childhood Education program, as detailed below, will not exist. The Education Department is developing a NEW Early Childhood program of study that will go into effect for the 2012-2013 academic year. Further clarification on the new program can be obtained from the graduate program director or the department chair.
The program of study below is to be used as a guide and reference for those students currently enrolled in the existing Early Childhood program. New applications are not being accepted in the existing Early Childhood program for the 2011-2012 academic year.
Applications for the NEW Early Childhood program will be accepted for the 2012-2013 academic year.
The existing Early Childhood Education program offers three options. Option 1 is for students who hold a valid certificate in early childhood education; option 2 is for students who hold a valid certificate in elementary education; and option 3 is for students who hold neither a certificate in early childhood education nor a certificate in elementary education and want to pursue a certificate and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Students in options 1 and 2 may pursue either a Master of Arts degree or a Master of Science degree. The Master of Arts degree requires 30 credits in course work and a 6 credit thesis; the Master of Science degree requires 36 credits in course work. Only the Master of Science degree is available for students in option 3, and requires 52 credits in course work.
Below is the program of study for the three options and can be used as a reference and guide for those students who are already enrolled in the program. All students who are pursuing a Master’s degree must complete the research and foundation course requirements and pass a comprehensive examination.
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