Early Childhood Studies

This minor (also available as a concentration) is designed to provide the skills needed of professionals working with young children and their families, and to provide the academic background required for graduate study or advanced training in the field.

The SBS (Social and Behavorial Science) faculty oversee the ECS concentration/minor.  Course options are available in each of the six content areas listed below.  These content areas are based upon the recommendations of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and our community advisors, who suggested that cross-disciplinary courses in Leadership and Education are essential to professional preparation in Early Childhood.     

Also note that the Internship (LCC 450) for students pursuing the ECS concentration must be related to this focus of study.  Students are advised to consult with their faculty advisors early regarding choice of internship placements.

Finally, students may formally specify either a minor or concentration in ECS.  Students pursuing ECS as either a minor or a concentration within their SBS major should complete the necessary paperwork so that ECS appears on their transcripts. (see student services). SBS students pursuing a minor in ECS are required to take at least 4 extra SBS electives beyond the requirements of the major.

1. Child Development:

Child Development (SBS 305) or

The Psychology of Attachment in Early Childhood (SBS 309) 

Note:  SBS 309 would be an appropriate choice for students with significant prior learning in developmental psychology.  SBS 309 is not recommended for students in other majors who are taking a minor in ECS.

2. Family:

Family (SBS 341) or

Family Systems (SBS 399)

3. Leadership:

Group Dynamics (SBS 301) or

Interpersonal Behavior (SBS 302)

4. Systems:

Childhood and Society (SBS 310) or

Education in the U.S. (EDU 200) or

Introduction to Social Services (SBS 346)

5. Children and Evaluation:

Approaches to Assessment (SBS 450) or

Psychosocial Disorders (SBS 350) or

Infant Mental health (SBS 375)

6.  Teaching/ preparing children for learning:

Language Acquisition (SBS 340) or

Children’s Literature (EDU 336)

(Revisions approved by SBS faculty October 19, 2006)

 Need more information? Click here to submit an online information request

^Back to Programs Page