Early Childhood Education | Grades P-3

Help Shape Positive Futures with an Early Childhood Education (Grades P-3) Degree from TROY.

From birth to age eight, children go through the most rapid brain development and growth in their lives, making early childhood a particularly crucial time for learning. Early childhood educators help shape their futures, laying the foundation for their success in school, employment and social settings. If you want to make a positive impact on children in preschool through third grade, Troy University's bachelor's in early childhood education equips you to do so. At TROY, you'll gain the skills you need to teach core subject areas and contribute to students' social growth, self-esteem and perception of the world.

College of Education graduate at commencement with Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr.

“The early childhood education program at TROY has introduced me to many opportunities. My advisors and professors are constantly involving my classmates and me in events that introduce us to the school system we hope to teach in after graduation. This continuous exposure to school system employees will hopefully make my future job search much easier.”

Erin Rosa | 2019 graduate, Early Childhood Education Degree

Certification to Teach Grades Preschool-3

When you earn your bachelor's degree in early childhood education from TROY, you'll also earn certification to teach preschool through third-grade students. Our program focuses on helping you become an effective, highly qualified educator who can help bridge the gap in access to education. Certification also helps expand your career opportunities and salary potential.

Meaningful Connections with Professors

Learn in small classes, allowing more interaction and engagement with professors and peers. TROY's early childhood education program faculty pride themselves on creating meaningful connections with students. They're dedicated to helping you critically reflect on your experiences and build your own teaching philosophy.

Apply Now

Early Childhood Education Degree Curriculum

While specific courses may vary from year to year, your coursework may include:

Academic Catalog Degree Map

Early Childhood Education Program Locations

Get the flexibility you need by taking courses online, in class or through a blend of both. For more information about program availability and delivery options, call 1-800-414-5756

Troy Campus

Other Options

Real-World Preparation for Early Childhood Education Careers

TROY's bachelor's degree in early childhood education includes a required internship, providing you with direct experience in classroom settings. Working under the supervision of a seasoned educator, you'll assume the role of classroom instructor. You'll practice various teaching methods and create, implement and reflect on lesson plans.

If you take classes for your bachelor's in early childhood education on the Dothan Campus, you'll have access to the Coleman Center for Early Learning and Family Enrichment. This 14,000-square-foot facility serves nearly 100 children and their families, providing you with opportunities to observe and study developmental characteristics of young children while gaining invaluable hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the early childhood education field.

Children playing at the Coleman Center on the Dothan Campus

What Can You Do with an Early Childhood Education Degree?

An early childhood degree or P-3 certification prepares you to work with children up to eight years of age in schools, preschools, childcare centers or home settings.

Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Requirements

To earn your TROY bachelor's degree in early childhood education, you must complete coursework in specific concentrations of child development, including language and literacy development, math and science teaching, assessment and field experiences. See the academic catalog for more information.

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Seungyoun Ward

Dr. Ward earned her Ph.D. from the University of Georgia. Her research interests include preservice and in-service teacher education, diversity and multicultural education, case-based pedagogy, teacher beliefs and thought processes, reflective practice, and social constructivist teaching and learning perspectives.

Learn more about our faculty 334-983-6556 sward177590@troy.edu

Related Programs

Elementary Education (Grades K-6)Collaborative/Special Education (Grades K-6)

FAQ About the Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Program

Learn more about the field of early childhood (grades P-3) education and our program.

Why is early childhood education important?

Early childhood education is important because it produces short- and long-term positive effects on children's cognitive, emotional and social development. High-quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood programs help establish a strong foundation for learning when the brain is most receptive to it. Early childhood education also helps prepare children for further educational experiences.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), children in healthy, safe, and effective learning environments in their early years are better able to reach their full developmental potential later in their education, careers and lives.

What is the purpose of early childhood education?

The purpose of early childhood education is to prepare children to excel throughout their lives academically, socially and vocationally. Focusing on cognitive, social and emotional development through play, exploration and imitation, early childhood education sets the foundation for future learning.

Is early childhood education a good career?

Early childhood education (grades P-3) is a good career choice for those passionate about working with children and helping them succeed. By working in this field, you can create a lasting positive impact on children's lives and social, emotional and cognitive development.

The career outlook for P-3 educators is promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates a 15% job growth for preschool teachers through 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The projected growth for kindergarten and elementary school teachers through 2031 is 4%, according to the BLS.

What can you do with an early childhood education degree?

With an early childhood degree, you can work with children from birth to age eight in a variety of settings, including childcare centers, preschools, schools and homes. Earning a bachelor's degree prepares you to become a teacher or hold roles such as childcare center director.

Helpful Links

Scholarships Student Success Center Admissions Libraries Academic Programs

News

Apple sitting on top of a stack of books on a desk

Using Your Early Childhood Education Degree To Give Kids the Best Start

The earliest years are the building blocks that set children up for educational success. Research shows that when highly qualified early childhood teachers work in high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs, children experience both short- and long-term positive effects. Troy University is helping give children the best possible start by training highly qualified teachers through its early childhood education degree program.