Yes, as long as you have been admitted to the College of Education & Human Development and the Organizational Leadership and Learning degree program. The academic counselor will work with you to identify the necessary courses and options.
/-/images/pages/ece/2010_BSOLL-ECE_1596x740.jpg
Excel as a leader in
interdisciplinary early childhood education
interdisciplinary early childhood education
ece
ece-program-page
organic
../programs/bachelors/bsoll-early-childhood-education?tab=apply
Veronica Johnson
Online Enrollment Counselor
Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership & Learning: Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Track
The online Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE) track is designed to prepare early childcare professionals to deliver high-quality, effective and diverse education to young learners in Pre-K classrooms.
The University of Louisville’s BS in Organizational Leadership & Learning: Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education track enables you to help at-risk learners in low-income or impoverished communities by developing your core education knowledge and communication skills—allowing you to work with children as well as their families or caretakers. You will gain proven interdisciplinary early childhood education expertise and learn to apply practical knowledge through the program’s commitment to three pillars.
If you’re looking to start or advance your career as a childcare professional, preschool teacher, infant-toddler teacher, teaching assistant, Head Start teacher, a center director, or in other interdisciplinary early childhood education areas, our program can help you get there.
This program is offered through the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the University of Louisville.
Academic Year Tuition
$540 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Interdisciplinary ECE Highlights
- Develop your understanding of child development in education and discover how you can help children create positive social relationships while also learning the ins and outs of day-to-day facility administration operations.
- Earn credit for prior learning and work experience as an early childcare professional through a designated course and assessment.
- Move through your accelerated coursework in the student-preferred timeframe of 8 weeks per course.
- Get started on your degree as soon as you’re ready with 5 available starts per year.
- Transfer in your associate degree or other earned credit from accredited institutions or earn the entire degree at UofL.
- Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of 100% online classes and 24/7 access to learning tools.
- 5 available start times per year.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Transfer Credit
If you previously started a bachelor's degree but didn't finish, UofL's online organizational leadership and learning bachelor's is designed to help you achieve degree completion. Transfer up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited 4-year college. You can also take all your general education requirements online at UofL! UofL Academic Advisers are available to assist with your degree planning.
Are you a KCTCS student? Students who have been enrolled at a KCTCS school and have fulfilled all general education requirements can have them transferred in their entirety and may begin immediately with online upper level coursework at UofL. Visit our KCTCS Transfers Page for more information.
Credit for Prior Learning
In the first online core course, LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment, you will work very closely with program faculty to build an academic portfolio by documenting your on-the-job learning and previous work experiences and other specialized training. With this portfolio, you could earn up to 48 credit hours toward your degree at no cost (equivalent of up to 16 courses).
100% ONLINE COURSES
Complete this program on your own time through fully online classes.
Learn More
Save Up To $25kIN TUITION
Earn college credit for prior learning and work experience through a designated course and assessment and earn up to 48 credit hours tuition free – up to $25,920 in savings.
Learn More
12 IECE CREDITS
Earn a bachelor’s degree and gain IECE credentials at the same time.
"The Interdisciplinary Early Childhood track provides an exciting opportunity for early childhood professionals to pursue their bachelor's degree while also receiving acknowledgement - and college credit - for their experience and knowledge in the field of early childhood education."
Jane Andris, PhD
Program Lead
What can I do with a degree in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education?
Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education degrees give you the education you need to start or advance your career in interdisciplinary early childhood education areas including:
- Childcare professional
- Childcare center director
- Preschool teacher
- Infant-toddler teacher
- Teaching assistant
- Kentucky Head Start teacher
Numerous graduates also pursue careers as childcare directors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2020 average salary for a director was $49,160. Earning your bachelor's degree can prepare you as a leader in your organization and provide you with access to higher pay, greater job security and a path to teacher certification.
UofL’s interdisciplinary early childhood education track within the bachelor’s in organizational leadership and learning is designed specifically to be a quicker and more affordable pathway to a degree for early childhood professionals by delivering tuition-free college credit based on past work experience.
How can I use Interdisciplinary ECE as a stepping stone to become a certified teacher?
Graduates of this program can earn teaching certification through UofL by completing their Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education. UofL’s online MAT in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education is an alternative certification program to get a jump start on your career.
Interdisciplinary ECE Application Deadlines
| Preferred Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall I | August |
| October 1 | Fall II | October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February 1 | Spring II | Late February |
| May 1 | Summer | May |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply to the Online BSOLL IECE Program
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online BSOLL IECE Admission Requirements and Materials
New Students and Transfer Students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent accepted by petition)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Composite ACT score of 21 or higher (test optional admission is granted on a case-by-case basis)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
- Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) preferred, but not required for admission
Transfer Students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.For more information about the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
Interdisciplinary ECE Courses
The online BS in Organizational Leadership and Learning track in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education is a 120 credit hour program, which requires up to 29 hours of major coursework in leadership and learning as well as 12 hours of specialized study in IECE.
| Course List | Hours |
|---|---|
| Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Track Courses | 12 |
| EDSP 427 Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development | 3 |
| EDSP 435 Administration and Consultation in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDSP 438 Emergent Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 439 Guidance of Young Children | 3 |
| General Education Requirements | 31 |
| OLL Major Core Courses | 24-29 |
| LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment (take within the first year) | 3 |
| LEAD 311 Needs Assessment | 3 |
| LEAD 316 Instructional Strategies and Group Facilitation Techniques | 3 |
| LEAD 341 Managing Projects in the Workplace | 3 |
| LEAD 411 Human Resource Fundamentals | 3 |
| LEAD 442 Supporting Organizational Change | 3 |
| LEAD 540 Program Exit Experience (Culminating Undergraduate Experience/Practicum) | 3-8 |
| LEAD 578 Workplace and Information Ethics | 3 |
| Work Specialization (Credit hours needed will vary based on hours earned through the Prior Learning Assessment portfolio process) | 9-48 |
| LEAD 290 Occupational Subjects | 2-42 |
| LEAD 291 Occupational Learning | 2-42 |
| LEAD 390 Advanced Occupational Subjects | 2-18 |
| LEAD 391 Advanced Occupational Experiences | 2-18 |
| Elective Requirements (Credit hours needed will vary based on transfer credit and hours earned through the Prior Learning Assessment portfolio process ) | 5-44 |
| Total Required Credit Hours | 120 |
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Course Descriptions
LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment
This course taken in the first semester introduces students to the process of producing a prior learning assessment portfolio/documentation of workplace learning (learning outside of the college classroom). Up to 48 credit hours may be awarded for documented work-place learning.
LEAD 311 Needs Assessment
This course addresses occupationally specific training and organizational needs. Students develop a proposal to conduct a needs assessment and a customized data collection instrument.
LEAD 316 Instructional Strategies and Group Facilitation Techniques
This course addresses instructional design strategies and group facilitation techniques for workplace and educational based initiatives. Students deliver critiqued lessons to communicate knowledge and skills needed for successful workforce advancement.
LEAD 341 Managing Projects in the Workplace
This course teaches the student to create and manage learning facilities, events and assignments, including budgets, tasks and resources. Tools and skills of Project Management are emphasized.
LEAD 411 Human Resource Fundamentals
This course is an overview of roles in field of resource management in context of the overall field of HRM, the relationship to workplace performance and the roles and competencies required in workforce leadership.
LEAD 442 Supporting Organizational Change
This course focuses on the reasons for and causes of change in organizations, and the professional and personal competencies to support change.
LEAD 540 Program Exit Experience (Culminating Undergraduate Experience/Practicum)
This is the final course and intended to show mastery of the program standards. It includes two components: 1) a supervised professional work experience related to the student’s program and professional goals; 2) a professional portfolio with reflection paper that analyzes learning related to the Workforce Leadership and Performance standards. Students must submit an Application for practicum one semester prior to enrollment.
LEAD 578 Workplace and Information Ethics
This course focuses on ethical perspectives at individual, group, organizational and societal levels as they apply to leadership in workplaces and management of organizational information; includes examination of social responsibility.
EDSP 427 Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development
This course will examine the physical, cognitive, language, affective, and social development of children from conception to age five. Emphasis will be on knowledge and understanding of child development as it pertains to typically and atypically developing children in inclusive educational settings.
EDSP 435 Administration and Consultation in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
This course will explore the responsibilities of the childcare or early childhood program director and the early childhood consultant.
EDSP 438 Emergent Curriculum
This course will focus on the exploration of research-based approaches to planning and implementing developmentally appropriate standards-based classroom activities, lessons, and materials for young children birth through age five focused on each child’s individual needs.
EDSP 439 Guidance of Young Children
This course addresses the research-based knowledge and skills related to child growth and development that assist young children to develop positive pro-social relationships and for early childhood professionals to understand positive guidance principles and practices for young children’s challenging behaviors.
LEAD 290 Occupational Subjects
Vocational and occupational credit from accredited institutions such as universities, community colleges, and private and public schools accredited by agencies recognized by the National Commission on Accrediting.
LEAD 291 Occupational Learning
Credit may be earned by documenting learning from experience in a teachable occupation or family of occupations.
LEAD 390 Advanced Occupational Subjects
Upper level vocational credit from accredited institutions such as colleges and universities, both private and public, and other agencies recognized by the National Commission on Accrediting.
LEAD 391 Advanced Occupational Experiences
Credit may be earned by documenting learning from experience in a teachable occupation or family of occupations.
Interdisciplinary ECE Success Team
Featured Faculty
- Betty Doyle
IECE Faculty
- Dianna Zink
IECE Faculty
- Dr Nikki Adams
IECE Faculty
Interdisciplinary ECE FAQ
-
Can I enroll in the program if I still have General Education courses to complete?
-
Will I pay UofL tuition for the credits I am awarded from my work experience?
No, you will earn those credits free of charge! In other words, by completing the LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment course (which is a 3-credit hour class at normal tuition cost), and submitting a completed portfolio in which you will document and validate your work experience (i.e. on-the-job training, professional development, etc.) and/or military and/or industry training.
-
Is there a part-time option?
Yes, you can complete this program as a part-time student.
-
Do I have to have my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential?
The CDA credential is preferred when applying to the BS OLL IECE online program, but it is not required for the acceptance into the program. That said, if you do have your CDA, you can earn college credit for it as part of the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
-
Does this program lead to teacher certification?
No, this program does not lead to any certifications. Graduates will earn their bachelor’s degree only. Teachers within the state of Kentucky are required to have a certification to teach in K-12 classrooms. If you are outside of the state of Kentucky, consult the licensing board in your state for more information about regulations that may apply to you. If you are interested in adding on teaching certification after you complete this bachelor’s degree, we do offer a Master of Arts in Teaching.
-
Is there a GPA requirement for admission?
Yes, you must have a minimum of GPA of 2.25 (on a 4.0 scale) to be considered for admission to the program unconditionally. If you do not have a 2.25 GPA, you can be accepted provisionally. The Admissions Committee will assess applications on a case-by-case basis, carefully considering all qualifications.
-
Is this program suitable for me as an out-of-state student?
Yes, this program is applicable to students in other states.
-
Is this program open to international students?
Yes, this program is available for international students.
-
Can I transfer in credits?
Yes, you can transfer up to 60 hours from a regionally accredited community college and up to 90 hours from a regionally accredited 4-year college. We recommend that you have a transcript evaluation completed to understand how many transfer credits will count toward your degree.
-
I’m a KCTCS Student, is there a transfer pathway for me?
Check out the transfer pathways available from our KCTCS Transfer Page for more information.
-
How long are the courses?
The courses are offered in an 8-week format with the exception of LEAD 540.
-
Does this program have a student teaching requirement?
No, there is no student teaching required for this degree. The BS OLL IECE track does not require student teaching because it is not a teacher certification program. If you are interested in a program that leads to teacher certification, contact Betty Hampton at betty.hampton@louisville.edu. Application to the teacher certification programs requires a passing score on the PRAXIS CASE exam. The BS OLL in interdisciplinary early childhood does not require any entrance or exit exams because it is not a teacher certification program.
-
Can I take summer classes?
Yes, you can take summer courses. However, none of the IECE track-specific courses are currently available during the summer term.
-
Are there any scholarships available?
Scholarships available for students who qualify. Check out our Scholarships page to learn more.
Academic Year Tuition
$540 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted.For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Interdisciplinary ECE Highlights
- Develop your understanding of child development in education and discover how you can help children create positive social relationships while also learning the ins and outs of day-to-day facility administration operations.
- Earn credit for prior learning and work experience as an early childcare professional through a designated course and assessment.
- Move through your accelerated coursework in the student-preferred timeframe of 8 weeks per course.
- Get started on your degree as soon as you’re ready with 5 available starts per year.
- Transfer in your associate degree or other earned credit from accredited institutions or earn the entire degree at UofL.
- Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of 100% online classes and 24/7 access to learning tools.
- 5 available start times per year.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Transfer Credit
If you previously started a bachelor's degree but didn't finish, UofL's online organizational leadership and learning bachelor's is designed to help you achieve degree completion. Transfer up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited 4-year college. You can also take all your general education requirements online at UofL! UofL Academic Advisers are available to assist with your degree planning.
Are you a KCTCS student? Students who have been enrolled at a KCTCS school and have fulfilled all general education requirements can have them transferred in their entirety and may begin immediately with online upper level coursework at UofL. Visit our KCTCS Transfers Page for more information.
Credit for Prior Learning
In the first online core course, LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment, you will work very closely with program faculty to build an academic portfolio by documenting your on-the-job learning and previous work experiences and other specialized training. With this portfolio, you could earn up to 48 credit hours toward your degree at no cost (equivalent of up to 16 courses).
100% ONLINE COURSES
Complete this program on your own time through fully online classes.
Learn More
Save Up To $25kIN TUITION
Earn college credit for prior learning and work experience through a designated course and assessment and earn up to 48 credit hours tuition free – up to $25,920 in savings.
Learn More
12 IECE CREDITS
Earn a bachelor’s degree and gain IECE credentials at the same time.
"The Interdisciplinary Early Childhood track provides an exciting opportunity for early childhood professionals to pursue their bachelor's degree while also receiving acknowledgement - and college credit - for their experience and knowledge in the field of early childhood education."
Jane Andris, PhD
Program Lead
What can I do with a degree in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education?
Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education degrees give you the education you need to start or advance your career in interdisciplinary early childhood education areas including:
- Childcare professional
- Childcare center director
- Preschool teacher
- Infant-toddler teacher
- Teaching assistant
- Kentucky Head Start teacher
Numerous graduates also pursue careers as childcare directors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2020 average salary for a director was $49,160. Earning your bachelor's degree can prepare you as a leader in your organization and provide you with access to higher pay, greater job security and a path to teacher certification.
UofL’s interdisciplinary early childhood education track within the bachelor’s in organizational leadership and learning is designed specifically to be a quicker and more affordable pathway to a degree for early childhood professionals by delivering tuition-free college credit based on past work experience.
How can I use Interdisciplinary ECE as a stepping stone to become a certified teacher?
Graduates of this program can earn teaching certification through UofL by completing their Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education. UofL’s online MAT in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education is an alternative certification program to get a jump start on your career.
Interdisciplinary ECE Application Deadlines
| Preferred Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall I | August |
| October 1 | Fall II | October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February 1 | Spring II | Late February |
| May 1 | Summer | May |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply to the Online BSOLL IECE Program
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Online BSOLL IECE Admission Requirements and Materials
New Students and Transfer Students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent accepted by petition)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Composite ACT score of 21 or higher (test optional admission is granted on a case-by-case basis)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
- Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) preferred, but not required for admission
Transfer Students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.For more information about the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
Interdisciplinary ECE Courses
The online BS in Organizational Leadership and Learning track in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education is a 120 credit hour program, which requires up to 29 hours of major coursework in leadership and learning as well as 12 hours of specialized study in IECE.
| Course List | Hours |
|---|---|
| Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Track Courses | 12 |
| EDSP 427 Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development | 3 |
| EDSP 435 Administration and Consultation in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| EDSP 438 Emergent Curriculum | 3 |
| EDSP 439 Guidance of Young Children | 3 |
| General Education Requirements | 31 |
| OLL Major Core Courses | 24-29 |
| LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment (take within the first year) | 3 |
| LEAD 311 Needs Assessment | 3 |
| LEAD 316 Instructional Strategies and Group Facilitation Techniques | 3 |
| LEAD 341 Managing Projects in the Workplace | 3 |
| LEAD 411 Human Resource Fundamentals | 3 |
| LEAD 442 Supporting Organizational Change | 3 |
| LEAD 540 Program Exit Experience (Culminating Undergraduate Experience/Practicum) | 3-8 |
| LEAD 578 Workplace and Information Ethics | 3 |
| Work Specialization (Credit hours needed will vary based on hours earned through the Prior Learning Assessment portfolio process) | 9-48 |
| LEAD 290 Occupational Subjects | 2-42 |
| LEAD 291 Occupational Learning | 2-42 |
| LEAD 390 Advanced Occupational Subjects | 2-18 |
| LEAD 391 Advanced Occupational Experiences | 2-18 |
| Elective Requirements (Credit hours needed will vary based on transfer credit and hours earned through the Prior Learning Assessment portfolio process ) | 5-44 |
| Total Required Credit Hours | 120 |
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
Course Descriptions
LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment
This course taken in the first semester introduces students to the process of producing a prior learning assessment portfolio/documentation of workplace learning (learning outside of the college classroom). Up to 48 credit hours may be awarded for documented work-place learning.
LEAD 311 Needs Assessment
This course addresses occupationally specific training and organizational needs. Students develop a proposal to conduct a needs assessment and a customized data collection instrument.
LEAD 316 Instructional Strategies and Group Facilitation Techniques
This course addresses instructional design strategies and group facilitation techniques for workplace and educational based initiatives. Students deliver critiqued lessons to communicate knowledge and skills needed for successful workforce advancement.
LEAD 341 Managing Projects in the Workplace
This course teaches the student to create and manage learning facilities, events and assignments, including budgets, tasks and resources. Tools and skills of Project Management are emphasized.
LEAD 411 Human Resource Fundamentals
This course is an overview of roles in field of resource management in context of the overall field of HRM, the relationship to workplace performance and the roles and competencies required in workforce leadership.
LEAD 442 Supporting Organizational Change
This course focuses on the reasons for and causes of change in organizations, and the professional and personal competencies to support change.
LEAD 540 Program Exit Experience (Culminating Undergraduate Experience/Practicum)
This is the final course and intended to show mastery of the program standards. It includes two components: 1) a supervised professional work experience related to the student’s program and professional goals; 2) a professional portfolio with reflection paper that analyzes learning related to the Workforce Leadership and Performance standards. Students must submit an Application for practicum one semester prior to enrollment.
LEAD 578 Workplace and Information Ethics
This course focuses on ethical perspectives at individual, group, organizational and societal levels as they apply to leadership in workplaces and management of organizational information; includes examination of social responsibility.
EDSP 427 Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Child Development
This course will examine the physical, cognitive, language, affective, and social development of children from conception to age five. Emphasis will be on knowledge and understanding of child development as it pertains to typically and atypically developing children in inclusive educational settings.
EDSP 435 Administration and Consultation in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
This course will explore the responsibilities of the childcare or early childhood program director and the early childhood consultant.
EDSP 438 Emergent Curriculum
This course will focus on the exploration of research-based approaches to planning and implementing developmentally appropriate standards-based classroom activities, lessons, and materials for young children birth through age five focused on each child’s individual needs.
EDSP 439 Guidance of Young Children
This course addresses the research-based knowledge and skills related to child growth and development that assist young children to develop positive pro-social relationships and for early childhood professionals to understand positive guidance principles and practices for young children’s challenging behaviors.
LEAD 290 Occupational Subjects
Vocational and occupational credit from accredited institutions such as universities, community colleges, and private and public schools accredited by agencies recognized by the National Commission on Accrediting.
LEAD 291 Occupational Learning
Credit may be earned by documenting learning from experience in a teachable occupation or family of occupations.
LEAD 390 Advanced Occupational Subjects
Upper level vocational credit from accredited institutions such as colleges and universities, both private and public, and other agencies recognized by the National Commission on Accrediting.
LEAD 391 Advanced Occupational Experiences
Credit may be earned by documenting learning from experience in a teachable occupation or family of occupations.
Interdisciplinary ECE Success Team
Featured Faculty
- Betty Doyle
IECE Faculty
- Dianna Zink
IECE Faculty
- Dr Nikki Adams
IECE Faculty
Interdisciplinary ECE FAQ
-
Can I enroll in the program if I still have General Education courses to complete?
Yes, as long as you have been admitted to the College of Education & Human Development and the Organizational Leadership and Learning degree program. The academic counselor will work with you to identify the necessary courses and options.
-
Will I pay UofL tuition for the credits I am awarded from my work experience?
No, you will earn those credits free of charge! In other words, by completing the LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment course (which is a 3-credit hour class at normal tuition cost), and submitting a completed portfolio in which you will document and validate your work experience (i.e. on-the-job training, professional development, etc.) and/or military and/or industry training.
-
Is there a part-time option?
Yes, you can complete this program as a part-time student.
-
Do I have to have my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential?
The CDA credential is preferred when applying to the BS OLL IECE online program, but it is not required for the acceptance into the program. That said, if you do have your CDA, you can earn college credit for it as part of the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
-
Does this program lead to teacher certification?
No, this program does not lead to any certifications. Graduates will earn their bachelor’s degree only. Teachers within the state of Kentucky are required to have a certification to teach in K-12 classrooms. If you are outside of the state of Kentucky, consult the licensing board in your state for more information about regulations that may apply to you. If you are interested in adding on teaching certification after you complete this bachelor’s degree, we do offer a Master of Arts in Teaching.
-
Is there a GPA requirement for admission?
Yes, you must have a minimum of GPA of 2.25 (on a 4.0 scale) to be considered for admission to the program unconditionally. If you do not have a 2.25 GPA, you can be accepted provisionally. The Admissions Committee will assess applications on a case-by-case basis, carefully considering all qualifications.
-
Is this program suitable for me as an out-of-state student?
Yes, this program is applicable to students in other states.
-
Is this program open to international students?
Yes, this program is available for international students.
-
Can I transfer in credits?
Yes, you can transfer up to 60 hours from a regionally accredited community college and up to 90 hours from a regionally accredited 4-year college. We recommend that you have a transcript evaluation completed to understand how many transfer credits will count toward your degree.
-
I’m a KCTCS Student, is there a transfer pathway for me?
Check out the transfer pathways available from our KCTCS Transfer Page for more information.
-
How long are the courses?
The courses are offered in an 8-week format with the exception of LEAD 540.
-
Does this program have a student teaching requirement?
No, there is no student teaching required for this degree. The BS OLL IECE track does not require student teaching because it is not a teacher certification program. If you are interested in a program that leads to teacher certification, contact Betty Hampton at betty.hampton@louisville.edu. Application to the teacher certification programs requires a passing score on the PRAXIS CASE exam. The BS OLL in interdisciplinary early childhood does not require any entrance or exit exams because it is not a teacher certification program.
-
Can I take summer classes?
Yes, you can take summer courses. However, none of the IECE track-specific courses are currently available during the summer term.
-
Are there any scholarships available?
Scholarships available for students who qualify. Check out our Scholarships page to learn more.