In this program, students learn to facilitate the development of children from birth to 12 years while encouraging their feelings of self-worth and social-emotional resiliency. Students design and implement play-based experiences, focusing on children’s interests through indoor and outdoor play opportunities. They learn the importance of being responsive caregivers while respecting diversity, identity and the rights of children and families. Partnerships with families, other professionals, and community programs form the foundation of working in the field of early learning and care. Field placements provide students with the opportunity to practice the knowledge and skills as they engage with children and adults. Students are offered a unique balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Graduates are qualified to apply to become a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with the College of Early Childhood Educators. Graduates may work in a variety of early learning settings, including licensed childcare programs, before-and-after school care, family home child care, early years resource centers, children’s mental health agencies, private home childcare, kindergarten programs, and recreation programs, as well as school readiness and early intervention programs. Growth is also occurring in the area of contractual employment and self-employment.