The BS in Early Childhood Studies (BS ECS) offers a strong foundation in child development and early childhood education with the purpose of guiding students in creating environments that are healthy, respectful, nurturing, and challenging for all children. Aligning with the standards of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the BS ECS courses are crafted for students already involved in early childhood settings as well as those seeking to work with and advocate for young children. Studies focus on how to intentionally draw on child development knowledge to support positive outcomes for young children. Emphasis is placed on ways to develop respectful, responsive partnerships with families and work with socially, culturally, and linguistically diverse populations of young children and families, including those with exceptionalities. Students explore the vital role of social-emotional development and positive guidance in children’s healthy development and learning. Through field experience, students gain guided practice and experience as they learn how play, creativity, and the content areas of language arts, social studies, math, and science can draw on and promote children’s curiosity, individual interests, and positive attitudes toward learning. Throughout the entire program experience, students are challenged to continuously apply reflective and critical perspectives to professional practice that promotes advocacy and positive social change for young children, their families, and the early childhood field.
Note: The BS in Early Childhood Studies is only offered in Walden’s competency-based education modality, Tempo Learning®, an alternative way of earning a Walden degree offered for some Walden programs. Instead of courses, the Walden Tempo Learning® program is comprised of competencies and rigorous assessments. Students progress through the Tempo Learning® model by successfully passing competency assessments. A student must successfully achieve or master all competency assessments to graduate from the program.
This program does not lead to teacher licensure or certification. Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.
See the General Education general education section of this Walden University Catalog.
Note: A minimum of 60 quarter credits must be completed at the 3000 or 4000 level in order to meet program requirements. In some cases, this means that students will need to select 3000- or 4000-level courses as either general education or elective options. Students should consult their student success advisor if they have questions about individual program requirements.
Choose 11 courses from either General Education or other Walden bachelor’s degree programs. At least one course (5 elective credits) must be at the 3000–4000 level. Elective credits should total 55 to meet the program requirements. Students may also be eligible to transfer previous credit to meet their elective requirements.
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