Program Overview

Early Childhood Education (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education draws courses from across the University to prepare teacher candidates interested in working with children, ages birth to grade 3, in educational settings. Coursework spans the disciplines of English literature and composition; history; fine and performing arts; mathematics; natural sciences; social sciences; human growth and development; and educational foundations, technology, assessment, theory, and methods.

Program Highlights

• Robust field experience
• Small class sizes
• VCCS transfer with Guaranteed Admission agreements

AT A GLANCE

• Darden College of Education & Professional Studies
• Department of Teaching & Learning
• Degree Level: Undergraduate
• Degree Earned: Bachelor of Science
• Delivery Modes: On-Campus

Featured Courses

TLED 338

Integrated Methods & Curriculum in Early Childhood Ed: Birth-Pre-K This course examines the development of curriculum and instructional practices for children in infant, toddler, and preschool settings. The course will focus on the principles and methods of understanding and working with the young child across the content areas of early mathematics, science, literacy, social studies, and the arts. Course includes a 40 hour practicum placement in an early care classroom. Prerequisites: TLED 330.

TLED 301

Foundations and Introduction to Assessment of Education Introduces the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations and contemporary issues of American public education. Includes the use and analysis of assessment data and the construction and interpretation of assessments. Students are expected independently to register for and take the Praxis Core examination while enrolled in this course. Students in PreK-6 programs will complete a 15 hour observation/participation experience in a primary setting (preK-3) and a 15 hour observation/participation experience in an upper elementary (4-6) setting; students in 6-12 or 6-8 programs will complete a 30 hour observation/participation experience in an appropriate 6-12 setting. Prerequisites: sophomore standing.

Careers

• Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education: $57,110 Median Salary
  • Teach elemental natural and social science, personal hygiene, music, art, and literature to kindergarten students. Promote physical, mental, and social development. May be required to hold State certification.
• Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education: $60,830 Median Salary
  • Teach students basic academic, social, and other formative skills in public or private schools at the elementary level.
• Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education: $33,590 Median Salary
  • Instruct preschool-aged children in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth needed for primary school in preschool, day care center, or other child development facility. May be required to hold State certification.

Requirements

Students entering the Bachelor of Science program in Early Childhood Education should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission. Admittance to the early childhood education program requires that the teacher candidate:

• Be a declared B.S. in early childhood education student
• Have a cumulative GPA of 2.75
• Have a 2.75 GPA in core and major courses
• Have no grade below a C- in any course required in the program
• Submit an application for admittance that is approved by the program and the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transfer of students.

Cost

Estimated rates for the academic year. Rates are subject to change. Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

• Active Duty Military Rate: $250 Cost Per-Credit
• Virginia Resident: $268 Cost Per-Credit
• Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States: $444 Cost Per-Credit
• Non-Resident: $953.50 Cost Per-Credit

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.