This program is primarily designed for students who already possess an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood and wish to earn initial Kentucky Teacher Certification in IECE. The student will complete a minimum of 64 credit hours in Core Professional Courses, in the area of concentration (Birth to Five Years) and in student teaching. In addition to courses pertaining to child development, curriculum approaches and teaching methods, this program also addresses issues involved in the teaching of preschool children with disabilities.

Admission Requirements

Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education

2.75 overall recommended GPA

3.00 overall grade point average in EDTP 201 and EDTP 107 (or 305)

ACT Minimum Composite Score of 21 is recommended

C or better for English 102 and Speech Communication course

Other requirements and application deadlines are outlined in the application packet which is available at the Education Advising Center, College of Education and Human Development. Members of the admissions screening committee evaluate all application packets after the appropriate admission deadline. Admission decisions are made by the professional judgment of the screening committee. Admission to the program is competitive and preference is given to applicants who have strong academic records, experiences and abilities that show promise of a successful classroom teacher. The admissions committee will be looking for candidates who have experience working with children.

Opportunities for Graduates

• Kindergarten Teacher (in certain settings)
• Preschool Teacher
• Early Childhood Special Educator (age 0-5 years)
• Developmental Interventionist
• Infant-Toddler Teacher
• Early Childhood Parent Educator
• Special Educator for IEP's/IFSP's
• Home-based Early Childhood Teacher
• Itinerant Early Childhood Teacher
• Nursery School Teacher

Certification

Kentucky Teacher Certification, Birth - Age 5