Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Degree

Q: What is a degree in early childhood education?

An early childhood education degree can prepare students to pursue teacher certification or licensure and teach children from birth through preschool, kindergarten and elementary school. This program teaches students about early childhood development, instructional planning, student assessment and classroom management, as well as professional ethics and advocacy in school systems.

Q: What age range can you teach with a BS in Early Childhood Education?

The bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can prepare graduates to teach very young learners from birth through preschool. Graduates may also teach kindergarteners and elementary school students through third grade. This degree focuses on the foundational academic skills young learners need to progress, as well as on early childhood socioemotional and cognitive development.

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Step 1: Educational Interests

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Teaching

Program

BS in Early Childhood Education

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

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Country

United States

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Overview

What Is a BS in Early Childhood Education?

The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at GCU is ideal for passionate individuals who aspire to make an impact on young children through education. The early childhood education (ECE) degree, offered by the College of Education, is available online^{(See disclaimer 1)} and on campus. This program leads to initial teacher licensure.

Throughout this early childhood education degree program, you will explore topics related to child development, instructional planning and classroom management for young learners. Coursework is designed to help you develop practical skills for teaching young children, including creating engaging lesson plans, supporting early literacy and numeracy development, assessing student progress and fostering welcoming, supportive classroom environments in early learning settings.

22% Off Tuition Scholarship

You may receive a 22% off tuition scholarship if you start an online undergraduate degree program. See if you qualify!^{(See disclaimer £)}

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Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

Offered By

College of Education

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $0 unknown [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Why Choose GCU for Your Early Childhood Education Degree?

As a private Christian university, GCU prepares future educators to cultivate servant leadership qualities and to emulate a Christ-like character as they prepare to step into the classroom.

Additionally, the Canyon Center for Character Education (CCCE) at GCU integrates character education competencies into our college education programs, teaching future educators how to intentionally foster strong character and ethical development in their students.

Study Online With a Flexible Learning Format

This early childhood education degree is available via online courses,^{(See disclaimer 1)} with some in-person components. Our e-learning platform offers interactive features, encouraging learners to connect with their peers and instructors for a collaborative academic experience. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of studying online.

Online Learning

Engaging Campus Community

You can choose to study early childhood education on campus as a traditional baccalaureate student. Enjoy an immersive college experience as you build your pre-professional network. Attend on-campus events, such as worship services, and choose from numerous clubs and activities.

Campus Life

Affordable Tuition for Your Education Degree

Affordability is a priority at GCU, where we strive to increase access to quality education for more students. Discover our competitive tuition rates and explore your financial aid options, which may include scholarships, to help you earn your early childhood studies bachelor’s degree.

Tuition and Financial Aid

A Welcoming Community at GCU

"The culture at GCU I want to see in the world, especially those future generations. We’re teaching them kindness, empathy, passion, compassion, all of those things are started young, so then when they’re older, they feel more successful, they have better people around them, and that will create and generate success for them in their lives."

Claire Houge

Early Childhood Education Major

A Welcoming Community at GCU

"The culture at GCU I want to see in the world, especially those future generations. We’re teaching them kindness, empathy, passion, compassion, all of those things are started young, so then when they’re older, they feel more successful, they have better people around them, and that will create and generate success for them in their lives."

Claire Houge

Early Childhood Education Major

"The culture at GCU I want to see in the world, especially those future generations. We’re teaching them kindness, empathy, passion, compassion, all of those things are started young, so then when they’re older, they feel more successful, they have better people around them, and that will create and generate success for them in their lives."

Claire Houge

Early Childhood Education Major

Coursework

What You’ll Study in the BS in Early Childhood Education Degree

In this program, you will examine a range of early childhood education models, including the Montessori model, and you will take a deep dive into instructional planning and pedagogy techniques for young learners, as well as how to support the socioemotional and developmental needs of your students. This degree also explores best practices when working with English language learners and children with exceptionalities.

Other competencies covered in this early childhood education degree include:

Instructional strategies

Classroom engagement and management

Assessment techniques

Early childhood development

Family communication and cultural awareness

Emerging trends in education

Practicum and Student Teaching Requirements

This degree program features practicum experiences embedded throughout the curriculum. You are required to complete a student teaching component with a 15-week placement in a preschool through grade three classroom. Upon completion of this early childhood degree program, you may pursue teacher certification.

Licensure may require practicum hours, state exams, student teaching and an institutional recommendation from GCU. Before enrolling, be sure to review your state’s teacher licensure requirements to confirm this program aligns with the qualifications needed for certification where you plan to teach.

Careers

What Can You Do With an Early Childhood Education Degree?

Graduates of the BS in Early Childhood Education degree can seek teacher certification and roles as a preschool, kindergarten or elementary school teachers. The program teaches future educators how to communicate effectively with young learners and their parents, as well as how to serve as an ethical advocate within the school system.

After gaining experience as an early childhood teacher, graduates may later choose to position themselves to potentially pursue advancement as lead teachers, or they may pursue the additional credentials required to become school administrators or instructional coordinators.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

This undergraduate early childhood education program is aligned with roles such as:

Preschool teacher

Kindergarten teacher

Elementary school teacher

Preschool teaching assistant

Special education teaching assistant

Elementary teaching assistant

FAQ

Early Childhood Education Degree FAQs

As you reflect on your career plans, you may have some questions about the Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and your possible career outcomes. The following FAQs and answers may help inform your decision-making process.

Is early childhood education a good major?

Early childhood education can be a great major for those interested in becoming an early childhood educator. It can also be a good choice for those who are curious about childhood development and how best to support young children as they learn and grow. This degree also offers the practicum and field experience hours needed to pursue your teaching license in Arizona.^{(See disclaimer 2)} Be sure to check your state requirements to ensure this program meets their criteria for licensure.

What is a degree in early childhood education?

Is an early childhood education degree worth it?

An ECE degree could be worth it for you if you’d like to gain the knowledge and licensure needed to teach preschoolers, kindergarteners or elementary school students. As an early childhood educator, you would be responsible for creating a classroom environment in which young students can learn and grow. This can be an ideal career choice for people who value education and want to help give young learners a solid foundation for life.

What is the difference between an MEd and a BS in Early Childhood Education?

The difference between a Master of Education (MEd) degree and a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is that the bachelor’s degree is designed for students who have graduated from high school and have no prior college education, as well as for transfer students. An MEd that leads to licensure, meanwhile, provides a pathway for switching careers to education and is designed for working professionals with a non-education bachelor’s degree.

What age range can you teach with a BS in Early Childhood Education?

Does a BS in Early Childhood Education include student teaching?

The early childhood education bachelor’s degree that leads to licensure includes practicum experiences and student teaching placements. GCU’s ECE degree can enable graduates to meet the student teaching requirements necessary to pursue teacher certification. Since licensure and certification requirements vary by state, it’s important to research the requirements for the state in which you plan to teach.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major80 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

HIS-144

4 Total Credits

EDU-354

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, candidates identify the developmental milestones of children, prenatal to adolescence. Students examine the progression of these milestones in all areas of development, including psychological, social, emotional, linguistic, cognitive, and physical. Additional focus is placed on typical and atypical child development, and analyzing the effects of environment, trauma, and family dynamics on the development progression. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

Core Courses

ECE-120

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on foundations of early childhood education with an emphasis on the historical context, ethical practices, philosophical and psychological theories, and current early childhood educational models including the Montessori education model. Teacher candidates will also examine the roles and expectations of early childhood educators, and have the opportunity to reflect on and plan for their own professional development. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

SPD-208

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify preventative and responsive practices related to cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying appropriate times to differentiate, modify, or accommodate to support student learning. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ECE-130

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on theories of child development and learning. Teacher candidates will examine the application of those theories to traditional and contemporary early childhood models and evaluate their usefulness in supporting children’s academic achievement, brain development, and social and emotional growth through early childhood. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ECE-210

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine principles of instructional planning with an emphasis on alignment between content standards, objectives, and assessment. Additional focus is placed on meeting the needs of individual learners through differentiated instruction. Engagement methods, including the use of technology, are explored. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

GOV-260

1 Total Credits

ECE-222

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on the developmental milestones of typical and atypical students, as well as evaluating disabilities and gifted tendencies among students in Birth – Grade 3 settings. Teacher candidates will also examine early interventions for students who demonstrate atypical behaviors, and investigate the role IDEA plays in early childhood settings. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ECE-232

4 Total Credits

Course Description

The course examines child growth and development as they relate to the health, safety, nutrition and fitness of young children. Principles and practices of personal and community health and safety are explored. Teacher candidates also consider strategies for developing the motor skills, social skills, confidence and enjoyment of movement in young children. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required.

ECS-430

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explores components of typical and atypical literacy development for children Birth to Age 8/Grade 3. Coursework emphasizes the Science of Reading and components of literacy development, including phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Teacher candidates focus on assessing developmental and other literacy concerns, through differentiation strategies to support literacy learning in young children, including dyslexia. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ECS-425, ECE-120, or ELM-211.

ECE-402

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course focuses on creating a positive culture in the learning environment, implementing classroom management strategies, supporting students with challenging behaviors, and addressing young children’s social and emotional needs. This course explores theories, models, and methodologies which foster a safe and effective classroom environment. Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational benefits of family involvement, addressing diverse learning needs, and developing realistic management policies and procedures that benefit the learning environment. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ECE-332

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course will prepare teacher candidates with the knowledge and skills to administer both traditional and authentic assessment strategies. Research-based screening tools, observation, checklists, and rating scales will be discussed. This course will examine assessments designed for students in preschool to Grade 3 focusing on performance assessment and methods used to report the student results to all stakeholders. Teacher candidates will examine the developmentally appropriate use of both traditional and authentic assessments to include developing a comprehensive assessment plan. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required.

ECE-362

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine cultural learning theories as well as the relationships and structures of family that make up the classroom and community. Emphasis is placed on identifying community, school, and familial needs, and maintaining open communication with families in order to enhance the learning environment. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

EDU-330

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this writing-intensive course, teacher candidates will explore multicultural education by engaging in research, communication, and ethical decision-making, focusing on developing educators' skills in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. Through analysis of evidence and virtuous practice, the course will examine the critical role of educators as advocates for all students, empowering participants to address disparities and promote equitable opportunities for academic success. With a specific focus on the principles of multicultural education, teacher candidates will be encouraged to reflect on the influence of their own worldviews and perceptions. Emphasizing the concept of imago Dei, which sees every individual as made in the image of God, this course aims to foster culturally responsive classrooms that welcome diversity in all forms. Teacher candidates will explore strategies to effectively bridge the gaps between various diversities and academic achievement, to foster human flourishing within the educational sphere. The course blends content with practical application, highlighting the educator's role as an advocate for all students and promoting equitable academic opportunities.

ECE-462

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines science methodologies for teaching children in the early childhood environment, with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning. Teacher candidates apply the skills necessary to develop a science unit plan that is standards-based and data-driven. Candidates are also given the opportunity to deliver instruction and evaluate their professional practice. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ECE-332.

ECE-452

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines literacy methodologies for teaching children in the early childhood environment, with an emphasis in incorporating the arts. Teacher candidates apply the skills necessary to develop instruction for language arts and creative arts that is standards-based and data-driven. Candidates are also given the opportunity to deliver instruction and evaluate their professional practice. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: ECE-332 and ECE-340 or ECS-430.

ECE-472

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines social studies methodologies for teaching children in the early childhood environment, with an emphasis on connections to past, present, and future concepts and events. Teacher candidates apply the skills necessary to develop a social studies unit plan that is standards-based and data-driven. Candidates are also given the opportunity to deliver instruction and evaluate their professional practice. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ECE-332.

ECE-442

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines mathematical methodologies for teaching children in the early childhood environment, with an emphasis in hands-on and manipulative-based learning. Teacher candidates apply the skills necessary to develop a mathematical unit plan that is standards-based and data-driven. Candidates are also given the opportunity to deliver instruction and evaluate their professional practice. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ECE-332.

REA-350

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates study the early stages of reading disabilities, including dyslexia. Emphasis is on assessment procedures in early childhood settings and methods of early intervention and remediation. Candidates will explore the collaboration with stakeholders in the use of formal and informal assessment data to support the diagnosis and remediation process in literacy. Candidates will examine research-based strategies to support literacy development. Prerequisite: ECS-430 or ELM-316.

ESL-436N

3 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine the fundamentals of the legal, historical, and educational foundations of Structured English Immersion (SEI) and other instructional programs for English language learners. Theoretical principles of language acquisition and the role of culture in learning are examined. Methods of assessment are identified and analyzed. Teacher candidates identify strategies to promote English language development and improve student achievement. Through Universal Design for Learning they plan, deliver, and evaluate standards-based instruction for English language learners. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required.

ECE-470

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates spend time in a birth through preschool setting observing, working with small groups, and teaching. Emphasis will be placed on planning, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate curricula, instruction, and adaptations based on knowledge of development and learning with young children, the family, and the community. The practicum/field experiences for this course are in a birth through preschool setting. Practicum/field experience hours: 30. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: ECE-230 and ECE-340 or ECS-430.

ECE-490

8 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Develop Skills in Child Development and Instruction

Apply online today at GCU to earn your early childhood education degree. Inspire young learners as they prepare for their future.

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If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the "Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures” link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

Excluding observational and practice-based experiences and student teaching.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How to Become a Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved March 2026.

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Degree

Step 1: Educational Interests

What Is a BS in Early Childhood Education?

Why Choose GCU for Your Early Childhood Education Degree?

A Welcoming Community at GCU

What You’ll Study in the BS in Early Childhood Education Degree

Practicum and Student Teaching Requirements

What Can You Do With an Early Childhood Education Degree?

Earn an Accredited Early Childhood Education Degree

Early Childhood Education Degree FAQs

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses