Early Childhood Studies Information for Transfer Students

Are you a community college transfer student interested in the Early Childhood Studies major?  

Here are some guidelines to help you plan your course of study. We recommend that you read this information and review the Major in Early Childhood Studies information thoroughly.

If you have taken related coursework at another institution, these courses may meet some of the ECS major requirements. You will need to meet with an Advisor to determine your individual course credits.

If you have questions after you read the material, please contact an Early Childhood Studies Advisor.

How to enter the Early Childhood Studies Major

Students in the ECS major must declare a concentration in Early Care and Education, Community, Health, and Social Services for Children, Elementary Pre-Credential, or Special Education Teaching Concentration.

Degree Requirements

The B.A. with a major in Early Childhood Studies requires that you complete the requirements for one of the Early Childhood Studies concentrations, general education requirements, Seawolf requirements, and electives to achieve a total of 120 units. Up to 70 units can be transferred in and counted towards the total.  Of the 120 units, 40 must be at the upper division level (numbered 300-499).  Use your Academic Requirements Report and consult frequently with an Early Childhood Advisor to stay on track.  We are here to help!

How to Meet Requirements as a Transfer Student

Students who complete courses at a California Community College have three options for making progress towards the Early Childhood Studies major.

1.  Early Childhood Education Transfer Degree

Students who complete the Early Childhood Education transfer degree at a California Community College will receive credit at Sonoma State University for EDEC 201, EDEC 220, EDEC 237 (equivalent to EDEC 291/EDEC 291L or EDEC 238), EDEC 247, EDEC 270, EDEC 110 and EDEC 450. For more information about the CAP 8 or the Early Childhood Education transfer degree, please see your community college counselor or visit Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP)

2.  Liberal Studies, Teacher Preparation

Students who complete the Liberal Studies—Teacher Preparation degree at a California Community College should take CAP 8 Child Development courses for their electives. For more information about CAP 8, please visit the Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP) and schedule a meeting with an Early Childhood Advisor.

3.  Completing Individual Courses
Students who do not complete the Early Childhood Education Transfer Degree at a California Community College can take individual courses and receive credit towards the SSU Early Childhood Studies major. For more information about CAP 8 and about your individual plan, please visit the Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP) and schedule a meeting with an Early Childhood Advisor.