Early Childhood Studies Career Map

Awareness

First Year

• Understand that the degree provides a foundation for working effectively with children birth to age 8 and their families.
• Recognize that the program is designed for non-certification roles, such as preschool directors or private school teachers.
• Learn about the flexibility of the program, which offers many courses fully online or in the evenings to accommodate working professionals.
• Identify the core mission: creating positive learning environments through developmentally appropriate activities.
  

Second Year

• Awareness of specialized coursework in Child Development and Learning, which covers physical and cognitive growth from birth through age 8.
• Recognize the importance of Language Development classes in understanding how children acquire speech and literacy skills.
• Identify the role of play in education through courses like "Creating Environments for Learning and Play".
• Understand that the program allows for electives to be chosen based on individual interests and professional needs.
  

Last Years

• Recognize the requirement to complete a 120-hour degree plan for graduation.
• Understand the professional standards required for leadership roles, such as becoming a childcare center director.
• Be aware of the "Early Intervention" career path, which involves supporting children with developmental delays and their families.

Exploration

First Year

• Explore the differences between the ECS non-certification track and the Elementary Education certification track to ensure alignment with your career goals.
• Investigate the various settings where graduates work, including infant and toddler programs, Head Start, and private preschools.
• Utilize faculty advising to understand how specific electives can tailor your degree toward management or specialized teaching.

Second Year

• Explore the impact of music and movement on the "whole child" through specialized curriculum applications.
• Investigate trends in Parent Education to learn how to promote better home-school communication and cooperation.
• Participate in departmental news and events to stay connected with the local early childhood professional community.

Last Years

• Research leadership opportunities in the "Early Childhood Education Market," which is projected to grow significantly by 2032.
• Explore careers in educational consultancy or curriculum development for private agencies.
• Network with professionals in the healthcare sector, such as Child Life Specialists, who support the emotional needs of young patients.

Preparation

First Year

• Establish a strong academic foundation in the social and behavioral sciences that underpin child development.
• Consult with your faculty advisor (e.g., Dr. Karen Morrison) to map out a graduation plan that fits your schedule.
• Develop an understanding of "play-based" inquiry and how it differs from traditional academic instruction.

Second Year

• Focus on mastering methods for promoting literacy and mathematics in early childhood settings.
• Prepare for your internship by maintaining employment or securing a spot in an approved childcare center.
• Gain hands-on experience in creating instructional materials through topical workshops.

Last Years

• Complete a Professional Internship in an approved early childhood facility to apply classroom theory to real-world practice.
• Finalize a professional portfolio that demonstrates your ability to design and implement developmentally appropriate activities.
• Utilize Career Development resources to prepare for roles in facility management or specialized education programs.