Department Information
Department of Early Childhood Education
PO Box 70548
Phone: (423) 439-7688
Visit the Department of Early Childhood Education website.
Program Coordinator: Dr. Narges Sareh
Phone: (423) 439-8637
The Department of Early Childhood Education in the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development offers an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in early childhood development. All students select one of two programs aligned with their career goals.
The Integrated PreK-3 Licensure program leads to a license to teach in PreK-3 and Special Education school settings. This program provides academic preparation in the growth and development of young children (birth through age 8), their families, and environmental factors influencing development.
The Early Care and Education Pathway program prepares candidates to work in early childhood settings that do not require teacher licensure, such as preschools, childcare programs, and community or state agencies serving young children and families.
In addition to the major, the department offers a minor in Early Childhood Education and opportunities for individuals licensed to teach other grades to add an Early Childhood (PreK-3) endorsement to an existing teaching license.
Graduate Study - The Department of Early Childhood Education offers a master’s degree in early childhood education with three concentrations: Initial Licensure, Master Teacher, and Researcher. A Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education is also available beyond the master’s degree. Additionally, two online graduate options are offered: a Master’s Certificate in Emergent Inquiry and a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education (Master Teacher concentration). Further information on this program may be obtained from the Graduate School.