Program Overview

The Early Childhood Education Credential is a 36-unit program that prepares teachers for preschool through third grade, including transitional kindergarten. Through this program, educators gain the knowledge and skills to create developmentally appropriate, research-based learning experiences that support young children’s growth and development. 

Students will build a strong foundation in the science of learning, social justice in education, special education, assessment, and early childhood pedagogy. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based instructional approaches in literacy, English language development, and STEM, with a strong integration of play-based and activity-based learning strategies. 

In addition to developing effective classroom practices, candidates will learn strategies to nurture positive learning environments, strengthen family engagement, and elevate professional teaching practices. The program culminates in two supervised student teaching practicums, each consisting of 240 hours: one in a preschool or transitional kindergarten setting and another in a kindergarten through third-grade classroom.