Early Childhood Education

Eastern Oregon University’s College of Education Early Childhood Education program offers students the opportunity to explore the field of early childhood education and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for supporting, educating and advocating for young children. Students receive in-depth knowledge of early childhood foundations, development, learning, and pedagogy, and apply this knowledge in learning to create high-quality early care and educational programs that focus on developing appropriate learning experiences for young children.

Be an Educator and Advocate

After completion of the ECED program, students are prepared to work as early childhood educators in the private sector as teachers, program directors, administrators, advocates, educational coordinators, or policymakers in schools, businesses, mental health agencies and community, private or church-related programs. Students who choose to obtain their teacher licensure may continue their education at Eastern Oregon University College of Education’s Master of Arts in Teaching licensure preparation program.

EOU’s Early Childhood Education Program offers students multiple pathways toward meeting your career goals. All options are offered fully online.

ECED Bachelor’s Degree Admissions Packet

Program Learning Outcomes

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ECED Course Offering Master Schedule

Early Childhood Certificate

The certificate includes introductory early childhood coursework in early childhood foundations, child development and working with families. The certificate may be completed in one year and when completed places the student on Oregon Registry Step 7.5 (ORO).

Associate of Arts

The early childhood associate of arts includes both introductory early childhood and general education coursework. This degree may be completed in two years and when completed places the student on Oregon Registry Step 9.

Bachelor of Applied Science

Students who already hold an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education from a community college may choose to pursue the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS). The Early Childhood Education coursework matches the Bachelor of Arts, but the BAS requires only 45 quarter credits of general education. Because it does not meet most master’s program admission requirements, students planning to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching should complete the Bachelor of Arts instead.

Bachelor of Arts/Science

Complete your bachelor’s degree at EOU with advanced early childhood and elective coursework. Program length depends on prior general education credits and can be as little as two years. Additional general education courses may be completed at EOU or through concurrent enrollment with Blue Mountain Community College. Transfer students should meet with an advisor to create a plan. Graduates are placed on Oregon Registry Step 10.