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An increasing emphasis on early childhood education programs, and a general movement toward universal preschool education, will increase the importance of and demand for teachers with expertise in this critical area of teaching and development. This relevant and robust degree program is designed for individuals seeking knowledge and skills in the field of early childhood development and teaching. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood. The degree program has embedded practicum experiences throughout the coursework, requires a student teaching component, and, upon approval, will lead to a teaching credential in Arizona.

Teacher candidates are required to complete their internship experiences in a K-3 classroom.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with the tools, techniques, and knowledge needed to successfully motivate, develop and educate children from birth to Grade 3.

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The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Early Childhood Education (Grades K-8) (Eligible for Institutional Recommendation) program is designed for students interested in the education of children in grades K-8, and for those who are seeking teacher certification.

The format and courses of this regionally accredited and Arizona-approved program are designed to maximize the content knowledge that the teacher candidate will possess upon graduation. Courses are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of educational psychology, philosophy, methodology, and curriculum development. All courses are directly aligned with the Arizona Professional Teacher Standards and the Interstate New Teacher Support and Assessment Consortium Standards. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within many of the courses guide students through over 100 hours of observational and practice based experiences, and the final semester of the program includes a full-time, 16-week student teaching component. These educational settings must be state certified environments and mentor teachers must be fully certified.

Teacher candidates are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. Furthermore, teacher candidates should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog, the Academic Policy Handbook, and an academic counselor to obtain information regarding current policies and procedures inherent in a teacher credentialing program. Graduates of the Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education program are prepared to become informed educators in public and private schools and other settings requiring a teaching credential.

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The Master of Education in Early Childhood Education (Not Eligible for Institutional Recommendation) is a program for students seeking knowledge and expertise in the field of early childhood development and teaching. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards form the foundation of this program. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment.

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Master of Education in Early Childhood Education (Leads to Credential).
An increasing emphasis on early childhood education programs, and a general movement toward universal preschool education, will increase the importance of and demand for teachers with expertise in this critical area of teaching and development. This next-level degree program is designed for teaching professionals seeking advanced expertise and skills in the field of early childhood development and teaching.
Courses cover the foundations, theories and current practices in early childhood education. The curriculum also focuses the instructional methodologies for teaching young children, with specific emphasis on language, math, science, social studies and the arts. In addition, the impact of influences, such as health, safety, nutrition, fitness, family and culture, are all explored.
The degree program has embedded practicum experiences throughout the coursework, requires a student teaching component, and, upon approval, will lead to a teaching credential in Arizona.
Graduates of this program will have the expertise and skills needed to facilitate and improve the development and education of young children from birth to Grade 3.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment.

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Earning a Certificate in Advanced Graduate Studies in Early Childhood Education teacher's instructions to enhance their professional competencies, improve their instructional practices, and expand their professional awareness to become more effective instructors with greater learning outcomes for their students. In this specialization, educators will learn to assess educational potential, create instructional programs, direct and coordinate learning activities, and manage early childhood classrooms. Prospective students should hold a master's degree prior to enrolling in this 18-credit hour program that can also transfer directly into a doctoral program at NCU.

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The Doctor of Education in Early Childhood Education program allows learners to explore a broad spectrum of topics from growth and development, childhood literature, program administration, curriculum and assessment, and stakeholder partnerships. The specialization is designed with an emphasis on the development of skills in scientific inquiry and leadership. Learners enrolled in this program will develop an understanding of theory related to the study of education in early childhood. Learners will apply research findings in an informed manner and conduct applied research and program evaluation.

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This program is tailored for Master's degree learners who desire to model, coach, and guide young children through the first years of life when social, physical, cognitive, and emotional development occur. Skilled educators create an environment that serves as a foundation for a Child's health and well being. In this specialization, educators will learn to assess educational potential, create instructional programs, direct and coordinate learning activities, and manage early childhood classrooms.

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Our Ph.D. in Education/Early Childhood Education degree program is designed to address the ever-changing and emerging issues within the context of educational settings so candidates will develop an understanding of theory related to the study of education in early childhood. The program allows learners to explore a broad spectrum of topics from growth and development, childhood literature, program administration, curriculum and assessment, and stakeholder partnerships, and apply research findings in an informed manner. Prospective students must meet certain prerequisite requirements such as a bachelor's or master's degree or relevant work experience prior to enrolling. These requirements can be discussed with the career counselor when they call.

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The Post University Early Childhood Education program provides a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes the development and application of age-appropriate approaches to the education of young children.

Post University's Early Childhood program will prepare you for immediate employment as early childhood teachers in school districts as well as in public, private, or corporate settings. If you later seek teacher certification the Associate in Science degree program will also permit transfer into a baccalaureate degree program. You will study child development, psychology, and age appropriate approaches to literature, math/science, and social studies. This program includes practicums undertaken at an arranged site near you.

The Early Childhood Education program provides an excellent beginning point for a career in education. Exceptional career opportunities are increasing nationwide for qualified professionals in this field. So feel confident that you are making a sound career choice and the right decision in choosing Post University to meet your educational needs.

With Post University Online, you can earn an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education entirely online, with no commuting or interruptions in your current career.

You will study in highly interactive, small classes in 8-week accelerated modules. Our faculty will actively engage you in a high quality and relevant curriculum that prepares you to enter a rewarding career in early childhood education.

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The Early Childhood Education Certificate program provides students with the professional training comparable to fulfilling the educational requirements of the Child Development Associate Credential. Students in this program will receive training in the basic principles of early childhood for entry level teaching positions in early care and education centers, nursery schools, Head Start programs, hospital settings, and community facilities.

With Post University Online, you can earn an Early Childhood Education Certificate entirely online, with no commuting or interruptions in your current career.

You will study in highly interactive, small classes in 8-week accelerated modules. Our faculty will actively engage you in a high quality and relevant curriculum that prepares you to enter a rewarding career in early childhood education.