Major in Early Childhood Studies

The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Studies (ECS) provides students with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to work effectively with children in early childhood (birth to age 8). ECS graduates work in a variety of fields, including as teachers (preschool, elementary, and special education), child life specialists, staff in community agencies, therapists, and social workers. 

Students in the Early Childhood Studies major must declare one of the following concentrations:

Early Care and Education (for students who want to work with children from birth to age five or who plan to enroll in a PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Credential program)

Community, Health, and Social Services for Children (for students who want to work with children outside of education settings)

Elementary Pre-Credential Concentration (for students intending to enroll in a Multiple Subject or Education Specialist Credential program)

Early Childhood Special Education Teaching (SET) Concentration (for students to enroll in an Education Specialist Credential [Special Education] Credential Program)

Declaring the Early Childhood Studies Major

To apply to the Early Childhood Studies major, please meet with an Early Childhood Advisor to learn more about the program and concentrations.  Then  complete the Change of Major form.  We recommend that you talk to an advisor early in the semester and declare the major at least two weeks before the next registration period in order to have access to courses in the ECS major.