Early Childhood Education (B.S.)

• Overview
• Curriculum
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• Licensure/Certification

Overview

URI’s Early Childhood Education major leads to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE). As early childhood (birth to age 8) is a critically important period for a child’s learning and development, the URI ECE focuses on the educational, socio-emotional, and developmental needs of young children. Students will learn a holistic approach to supporting a child’s learning and development.

The ECE at URI is a fully accredited certification program that leads to an initial teaching certificate for the pre-school and primary grades (Pre-K to 2) in Rhode Island. In addition to earning a B.S. in Early Childhood Education, students will also choose a second major in Human Development and Family Studies, Elementary Education, Psychology, or a Foreign Language.

Program Highlights

• Gain high quality field experience through the on-campus child development centers, three field experiences, and a required student teaching semester
• Learn developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant care and education
• Promote whole child development and a rich understanding of diverse learners
• Support overarching partnerships among family, school, and community
• Become a passionate and motivated leader in the field of ECE