• AS: Early Childhood Education Webinar
    Early Childhood Education Webinar

    Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development

    Early childhood is a time of constant discovery, learning, and growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, long-term national job growth for child care workers is expected to be 20 percent through 2020.* Professionals trained to work with young children may find opportunities in day care centers, after-school programs, and other childcare settings.†

    Kaplan University’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development program could help you pursue and build a rewarding career in this growing field. Our nonlicensure program is designed to provide you with a strong foundation in child growth and development, ethics, health and nutrition, lesson planning, and much more.

    Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development Program Highlights

    The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development could help you advance your career in the field†or prepare for graduate studies.‡ 

    The curriculum emphasizes:

    • Planning, developing, and implementing family and community-building strategies
    • Evaluating observation and assessment techniques to inform instructional planning for children and families
    • Creating effective learning environments for young children
    • Demonstrating sound professional standards and ethical values
    • Understanding the importance of individuality and cultural diversity 
    In addition, the program offers an optional student teaching experience that provides campus students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their learning within an early childhood classroom setting.§ 

    What are the Career Opportunities?

    This program is designed for individuals who are interested in working with children or advancing their career in the early childhood field. Graduates could pursue employment in early childhood programs, childcare centers, pre-kindergarten or kindergarten programs, Head Start programs, and other before- and after-school care settings.§ 

    Advanced Start Option

    If you already have an associate's or bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university and wish to pursue a career in the field of early childhood development, our advanced start program could help you earn a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development in as little as two years of full-time study.# 

  • Kaplan University offers multiple start dates, giving you greater flexibility with your education, life, and work schedules.

    Jun 05

    Online Start Date
    Jun 05, 2013

    Jul 03

    Online Start Date
    Jul 03, 2013

    Jul 31

    Online and Campus Start Date
    Jul 31, 2013

    View the Academic Calendar

  • Curriculum: Online Track

    Core

    CM 107: COLLEGE COMPOSITION I (5 Credits)

    Students will learn how to communicate effectively in their professional field using various writing styles. Students will also identify and further develop their own writing process. Grammar and mechanics will be reviewed, helping students focus on the areas that will improve their writing.

    Prerequisites Required: Any Academic Strategies course or any Eight Skills of the Effective Student course

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CM 220: COLLEGE COMPOSITION II (5 Credits)

    This course helps students apply research and critical thinking skills to develop effective arguments. Students will create professional writings, incorporating post-draft revision strategies, working constructively with colleagues.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition I course

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CS 204: PROFESSIONAL PRESENCE (3 Credits)

    This course introduces students to multidisciplinary techniques and concepts pertinent to lifelong career development and professionalism. Students explore career planning as a strategy and professionalism as a method in order to pursue employment interests and career goals. Concepts include various professional communication skills appropriate for the global workplace, interpersonal relationship management, professional behavior, financial decision making, marketability, and using proper technologies to manage professional identities. 

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    SS 236: PEOPLE, POWER, AND POLITICS-AN INTRODUCTION TO AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (5 Credits)

    The purpose of this introductory-level American government course is to provide students with crucial knowledge about how government works and about how they, as individual citizens, fit within that system. Focus is on the rights and obligations of citizens under the democratic political system established under the U.S. Constitution; the branches and levels of government; and the role of the media. This fundamental knowledge combined with critical thinking skills will be valuable personally and professionally.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition I course

    SS 211: THE 1960S—RESHAPING THE AMERICAN DREAM (5 Credits)

    This course will take an in-depth look at the 1960s as a significant era in American history. Adopting multiple perspectives, we will explore the societal impact of such issues as the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the Vietnam War, the Countercultural, Civil Rights, and Feminist Movements, the advent of the birth control pill, and many others. Through exploring the music, political climate, and advancements in technology and medicine of this historical era, we will discover how our individual lives and society as a whole were forever changed.

    Prerequisites Required: Any college composition course

    SS 250: THE TECHNOLOGICAL REVOLUTION—A SOCIAL SCIENTIFIC APPROACH (5 Credits)

    This is a social science survey course that will examine science and technology from a variety of social science disciplines including sociology, psychology, history, political science, anthropology, and economics. The use of science and technology has been a driving force behind all of human history, and even more so today. This course will take an interactive approach to study the relationship between humanity and technology throughout time and across the globe.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition I Course

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    SC 200: DISCOVERING SCIENCE—CURRENT ISSUES IN A CHANGING WORLD (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to introduce students to some of the most important concepts in science including inheritance, energy, randomness, and measurement. In addition, the course will give students a chance to explore the human aspects of science: how people put science into practice, how societies think about scientific findings, and why science depends on ethical practices. Knowledge gained in the course will help inform further study in many disciplines and will help students better understand how science affects their personal and professional lives.

    SC 246: FUNDAMENTALS OF MICROBIOLOGY (5 Credits)

    Fundamentals of Microbiology will review basic microbial cell structure, function, and genetics. The role of microorganisms and their affect on humans and the environment will also be explained. Aspects of medical and public health will be emphasized, as will bacterial and viral diseases, parasites, immunology, and epidemiology. Course material and labs are directly relevant to studies in health sciences, biological sciences, nursing, and genetics.

    SC 235: GENERAL BIOLOGY I-HUMAN PERSPECTIVES (5 Credits)

    In this introduction to biology, students will explore the living world of humans. The course emphasizes the processes of life from the molecular work of genes and proteins to human organ systems, all the way up to food webs and overpopulation. Practical applications of biology in everyday life are stressed throughout the course. No prior study of biology is required to enroll in this nonmajors course.

    SC 250: SCIENCE FOR EVERYDAY LIFE (5 Credits)

    Science for Everyday Life is designed to help students recognize the importance of science as it impacts their daily lives in so many different ways. In this course, students will explore different rooms within a typical home and discover what role science plays as they investigate areas such as their kitchen and bathroom, the garden, and even the impact science has on their families and pets. The knowledge gained in this course will help garner a new appreciation for the science applications already around us and how to interpret the strengths and weaknesses of

    information streaming in from various sources.

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    HU 200: CRITICAL EVALUATION IN THE HUMANITIES (5 Credits)

    In this course, students will explore the impact of creative expression on cultures from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present. By studying examples from the arts and humanities, students investigate how humans have the potential to shape history. Students develop skills to evaluate and analyze forms of creative expression, and discover how to apply these skills to their career goals, community, and daily experience.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition course

    HU 245: ETHICS (5 Credits)

    In this course, students develop sound ethical reasoning and judgment through the study of practical applications of ethical theories. Topics studied include ethics as it relates to business, health care, society, and the environment. Emphasis is on practical applications of ethical principles and analytical methods.

    Prerequisites Required: CM  220

    HU 250: HUMANITIES AND CULTURE (5 Credits)

    This course is a survey of human social and cultural life through an introduction to humanist theories and historical subject matter. Beginning with village settlement and the rise of cities and ending with the development of modern nations, students study the expression of human ideas and traditions through material and nonmaterial culture. Through readings and discussions, students are introduced to humanist studies and learn to appreciate cultural continuity and change as defining characteristics of the human experience.

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    MM 212: COLLEGE ALGEBRA (5 Credits)

    This course covers topics of algebra, including linear functions, equations, and inequalities, systems of equations in two variables, polynomial functions, rational and radical equations and inequalities, exponential and logarithmic functions, ratios, proportions, variation, and graphing.

    MM 150: SURVEY OF MATHEMATICS (5 Credits)

    Students will improve their background in mathematical concepts and skills utilizing real-world scenarios to solve math problems. Students will also enhance their own knowledge by demonstrating the ability to explain and interpret concepts, which is a valued skill in many fields. The topics may include sets, variables, measurement, and statistics.

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Major

    CE 100: PREPARING FOR A CAREER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (5 Credits)

    Early childhood professionals establish an environment for the early learning success of the children they serve. This course provides the opportunity for the early childhood development student to prepare for success in the Kaplan University classroom environment. Topics addressed include roles, responsibilities, and various career opportunities within the field, professional standards, personal management tools, strategies, and university resources. Additionally, students will preview the portfolio project that will be developed in the final capstone course in the program.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 101: INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (5 Credits)

    This course will present an overview of the field of early childhood development. Students will learn the foundations necessary to provide safe, healthy, high-quality care for young children. An emphasis will be placed on governing standards and regulations, historical perspectives,
    and current trends. This course will also focus on what it means to be an early childhood professional and will assist students in developing effective professional practices in the field.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 114: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (5 Credits)

    This course surveys the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children from birth through age eight. In order to provide developmentally appropriate care giving, nurturing, and instruction for the most important developmental years in life, topics will include: attachment issues, developmental milestones, and developmentally appropriate strategies. Using their understanding of how young children develop, students will discuss issues in early childhood care, safety and health concerns, guidance techniques, and behavioral expectations.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 215: EARLY CHILDHOOD CURRICULUM PLANNING (5 Credits)

    In this course, students will study teaching methods for educational settings that serve young children. Attention will be given to developmental domains, strategies for planning, organizing the learning environment, facilitating teacher-child interactions, guiding children’s behavior, conducting lessons, assessing, care giving, supporting play, and addressing standards through integrated and emergent curriculum.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 220: CHILD SAFETY, NUTRITION, AND HEALTH (5 Credits)

    The course is designed to help students advance their knowledge of the factors that affect the health, nutrition, and safety of the young child. Students will be able to identify common childhood illnesses and their causes, discuss the nutritional needs of healthy young children with those of children who have allergies or chronic disease conditions, discuss healthy menus using current information, and explain the basics of adequate nutrition to children and caregivers. Students also will identify safe indoor and outdoor learning activities and suggest ways to create environments that maximize safety.

    Prerequisites Required: CE 114

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 230: CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to help early childhood care professionals provide creative, developmentally appropriate practices in a child care environment. Participants will examine materials and activities that will help foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, with an emphasis on activities that encourage independence, exploration, risk-taking, and opportunities to think and act creatively.

    Prerequisites Required: CE  101

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 240: YOUNG CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to help future early childhood care professionals become effective caregivers and advocates for young children with special needs and their families by learning how to apply strategies to address learning differences. Students will explore some of the more common learning differences and disabilities currently encountered in the inclusive classroom. They will explain the value of early identification of special needs and the importance of intervening early, in accordance with relevant federal legislation. Students also will demonstrate how to communicate and collaborate with families in real-world situations for the benefit of the child with special needs.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 101

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CM 206: INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the principles of interpersonal communication and emphasizes how to be a more effective communicator in professional and personal situations. Emphasis is on interpersonal communication in varying contexts, focusing on professional communication as well as personal, social, and cultural dimensions. Topics include the communication process, the influence of perception on communication, verbal and nonverbal elements of interaction, listening, the communication of emotions, conflict management, and effective communication strategies.

    Prerequisites Required: CM 107

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 300: OBSERVATION AND ASSESSMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course prepares students to use the various methods of assessment and observation, including standardized and authentic assessment strategies, as a way to assess children’s growth and the development of knowledge and skills. Students will apply assessment strategies through virtual field experiences and case studies to identify developmental levels, interests, and abilities, and interpret the data collected.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 310: CHILDREN’S LITERACY (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on how children’s literature experiences contribute to children’s literacy skills. Students will be introduced to a balanced reading framework: shared, modeled, guided, and some independent reading and writing strategies. Reading fluency and comprehension strategies will be emphasized. How to apply assessment strategies, including running reading records, anecdotal records of reading progress, and pre-emergent and emergent literacy scales, will be introduced.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 320: LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT IN THE YOUNG CHILD (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on language acquisition, development, and communication skills. Students will participate in and use virtual field observations and readings to learn about theories of and influences on how young children acquire and develop language. Students will be presented with an overview of the stages of oral language development and will discuss current thinking with regard to bilingualism.

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 330: TEACHING ACROSS CONTENT—MATH, SCIENCE, AND SOCIOLOGY FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (6 Credits)

    This course examines the teaching skills of inquiry and discovery-based learning in math and science for young children. Using current theories of development, students develop a working knowledge of methods and materials, scope and sequence of concepts through age eight, related curriculum standards, and assessment strategies. The mathematical concepts of numbers, geometry, problem solving, patterns, parts and wholes, measurement, and graphing will be examined. The processes of science will be explored. Students apply sociology concepts as they relate to children within the classroom and the community at large. Students will also learn how to incorporate goals, objectives, and processes into integrated curriculum.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 410: TEACHING ART AND MUSIC IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course will examine the foundations and theories of the creative arts with young children. Students will learn how to encourage imagination, flexible thinking, problem solving, and creative movement in order to formulate connections with the processes that children employ in their creative expression. Students will use course knowledge to plan developmentally appropriate creative activities for children.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 420: CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This course compares the history, theories, research, and contemporary influences of curriculum development in early childhood education. Developmentally appropriate early childhood lesson plans and activities will be analyzed and developed.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 430: LEARNING THROUGH PLAY IN THE INCLUSIVE CLASSROOM (6 Credits)

    This course further examines the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, and others to demonstrate how children learn through play and the effect play has on all the developmental domains. Students will learn how to incorporate necessary skill development and assistive technology into play while addressing the individual needs of all children in the classroom.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 499: BACHELOR’S CAPSTONE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This final course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their learning in a comprehensive manner. Students will reflect on the courses taken and develop an understanding of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards, developmentally appropriate practices based upon child development research, curriculum, and professionalism. This course will culminate with a comprehensive professional portfolio that integrates the learning throughout the program.
     

    Prerequisites Required: Last term or permission of the Dean

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    PS 124: INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course provides a broad introduction to the field of psychology, one of the social sciences. Students will be introduced to a range of topics that offer insight into human thought and actions, including what motivate us to study human behavior, ethical decisions, problem solving, and theories on memory, learning, intelligence, and personality. This course will highlight the use of critical thinking and the application of the concepts. In addition, it will draw on practical psychological concepts related to students' personal and professional relationships.

    SS 144: SOCIOLOGY (5 Credits)

    An understanding of the dynamics of human societies and group behavior is useful for any work environment or professional career. This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of the discipline of sociology. Students will explore society and social life through the study of language, culture, race and ethnicity, gender, inequality, education, deviance, and sociological theory and methods. Students are also encouraged, through course assignments and discussions, to examine the influences of society on their personal lives.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition I course

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Electives

    OPEN ELECTIVES (54 Credits)

    Total Electives Credits: 54
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Core

    100/200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5  Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    100/200 LEVEL: MATHEMATICS COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    300/400 LEVEL: ARTS AND HUMANITIES COURSE (6 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    300/400 LEVEL: PHYSICAL SCIENCE COURSE (6 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    300/400 LEVEL: SOCIAL SCIENCE COURSE (6 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 33
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Major

    CE 100: PREPARING FOR A CAREER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (5 Credits)

    Early childhood professionals establish an environment for the early learning success of the children they serve. This course provides the opportunity for the early childhood development student to prepare for success in the Kaplan University classroom environment. Topics addressed include roles, responsibilities, and various career opportunities within the field, professional standards, personal management tools, strategies, and university resources. Additionally, students will preview the portfolio project that will be developed in the final capstone course in the program.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 101: INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (5 Credits)

    This course will present an overview of the field of early childhood development. Students will learn the foundations necessary to provide safe, healthy, high-quality care for young children. An emphasis will be placed on governing standards and regulations, historical perspectives,
    and current trends. This course will also focus on what it means to be an early childhood professional and will assist students in developing effective professional practices in the field.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 114: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (5 Credits)

    This course surveys the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children from birth through age eight. In order to provide developmentally appropriate care giving, nurturing, and instruction for the most important developmental years in life, topics will include: attachment issues, developmental milestones, and developmentally appropriate strategies. Using their understanding of how young children develop, students will discuss issues in early childhood care, safety and health concerns, guidance techniques, and behavioral expectations.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 215: EARLY CHILDHOOD CURRICULUM PLANNING (5 Credits)

    In this course, students will study teaching methods for educational settings that serve young children. Attention will be given to developmental domains, strategies for planning, organizing the learning environment, facilitating teacher-child interactions, guiding children’s behavior, conducting lessons, assessing, care giving, supporting play, and addressing standards through integrated and emergent curriculum.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 220: CHILD SAFETY, NUTRITION, AND HEALTH (5 Credits)

    The course is designed to help students advance their knowledge of the factors that affect the health, nutrition, and safety of the young child. Students will be able to identify common childhood illnesses and their causes, discuss the nutritional needs of healthy young children with those of children who have allergies or chronic disease conditions, discuss healthy menus using current information, and explain the basics of adequate nutrition to children and caregivers. Students also will identify safe indoor and outdoor learning activities and suggest ways to create environments that maximize safety.

    Prerequisites Required: CE 114

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 230: CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to help early childhood care professionals provide creative, developmentally appropriate practices in a child care environment. Participants will examine materials and activities that will help foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, with an emphasis on activities that encourage independence, exploration, risk-taking, and opportunities to think and act creatively.

    Prerequisites Required: CE  101

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 240: YOUNG CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to help future early childhood care professionals become effective caregivers and advocates for young children with special needs and their families by learning how to apply strategies to address learning differences. Students will explore some of the more common learning differences and disabilities currently encountered in the inclusive classroom. They will explain the value of early identification of special needs and the importance of intervening early, in accordance with relevant federal legislation. Students also will demonstrate how to communicate and collaborate with families in real-world situations for the benefit of the child with special needs.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 101

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CM 206: INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the principles of interpersonal communication and emphasizes how to be a more effective communicator in professional and personal situations. Emphasis is on interpersonal communication in varying contexts, focusing on professional communication as well as personal, social, and cultural dimensions. Topics include the communication process, the influence of perception on communication, verbal and nonverbal elements of interaction, listening, the communication of emotions, conflict management, and effective communication strategies.

    Prerequisites Required: CM 107

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 300: OBSERVATION AND ASSESSMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course prepares students to use the various methods of assessment and observation, including standardized and authentic assessment strategies, as a way to assess children’s growth and the development of knowledge and skills. Students will apply assessment strategies through virtual field experiences and case studies to identify developmental levels, interests, and abilities, and interpret the data collected.

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 310: CHILDREN’S LITERACY (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on how children’s literature experiences contribute to children’s literacy skills. Students will be introduced to a balanced reading framework: shared, modeled, guided, and some independent reading and writing strategies. Reading fluency and comprehension strategies will be emphasized. How to apply assessment strategies, including running reading records, anecdotal records of reading progress, and pre-emergent and emergent literacy scales, will be introduced.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 320: LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT IN THE YOUNG CHILD (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on language acquisition, development, and communication skills. Students will participate in and use virtual field observations and readings to learn about theories of and influences on how young children acquire and develop language. Students will be presented with an overview of the stages of oral language development and will discuss current thinking with regard to bilingualism.

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 330: TEACHING ACROSS CONTENT—MATH, SCIENCE, AND SOCIOLOGY FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (6 Credits)

    This course examines the teaching skills of inquiry and discovery-based learning in math and science for young children. Using current theories of development, students develop a working knowledge of methods and materials, scope and sequence of concepts through age eight, related curriculum standards, and assessment strategies. The mathematical concepts of numbers, geometry, problem solving, patterns, parts and wholes, measurement, and graphing will be examined. The processes of science will be explored. Students apply sociology concepts as they relate to children within the classroom and the community at large. Students will also learn how to incorporate goals, objectives, and processes into integrated curriculum.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 410: TEACHING ART AND MUSIC IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course will examine the foundations and theories of the creative arts with young children. Students will learn how to encourage imagination, flexible thinking, problem solving, and creative movement in order to formulate connections with the processes that children employ in their creative expression. Students will use course knowledge to plan developmentally appropriate creative activities for children.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 420: CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This course compares the history, theories, research, and contemporary influences of curriculum development in early childhood education. Developmentally appropriate early childhood lesson plans and activities will be analyzed and developed.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 430: LEARNING THROUGH PLAY IN THE INCLUSIVE CLASSROOM (6 Credits)

    This course further examines the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, and others to demonstrate how children learn through play and the effect play has on all the developmental domains. Students will learn how to incorporate necessary skill development and assistive technology into play while addressing the individual needs of all children in the classroom.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    CE 499: BACHELOR’S CAPSTONE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This final course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their learning in a comprehensive manner. Students will reflect on the courses taken and develop an understanding of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards, developmentally appropriate practices based upon child development research, curriculum, and professionalism. This course will culminate with a comprehensive professional portfolio that integrates the learning throughout the program.
     

    Prerequisites Required: Last term or permission of the Dean

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    PS 124: INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course provides a broad introduction to the field of psychology, one of the social sciences. Students will be introduced to a range of topics that offer insight into human thought and actions, including what motivate us to study human behavior, ethical decisions, problem solving, and theories on memory, learning, intelligence, and personality. This course will highlight the use of critical thinking and the application of the concepts. In addition, it will draw on practical psychological concepts related to students' personal and professional relationships.

    SS 144: SOCIOLOGY (5 Credits)

    An understanding of the dynamics of human societies and group behavior is useful for any work environment or professional career. This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of the discipline of sociology. Students will explore society and social life through the study of language, culture, race and ethnicity, gender, inequality, education, deviance, and sociological theory and methods. Students are also encouraged, through course assignments and discussions, to examine the influences of society on their personal lives.

    Prerequisites Required: Any College Composition I course

    Total Major Credits: 93
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Electives

    OPEN ELECTIVES (54 Credits)

    Total Electives Credits: 54
    Total Program Credits: 180

    Prior Degree

    Total Prior Degree Credits (90 Credits)

    Total Prior Degree Credits: 90
    Total Program Credits: 90

    *Comparability is determined by a course-by-course examination of the prior associate's or bachelor's degree against the core requirements of a Kaplan University associate’s degree.

    Prerequisites

    CE 101: INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (5 Credits)

    This course will present an overview of the field of early childhood development. Students will learn the foundations necessary to provide safe, healthy, high-quality care for young children. An emphasis will be placed on governing standards and regulations, historical perspectives,
    and current trends. This course will also focus on what it means to be an early childhood professional and will assist students in developing effective professional practices in the field.

    Total Prerequisites Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 215: EARLY CHILDHOOD CURRICULUM PLANNING (5 Credits)

    In this course, students will study teaching methods for educational settings that serve young children. Attention will be given to developmental domains, strategies for planning, organizing the learning environment, facilitating teacher-child interactions, guiding children’s behavior, conducting lessons, assessing, care giving, supporting play, and addressing standards through integrated and emergent curriculum.

    Total Prerequisites Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 240: YOUNG CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (5 Credits)

    This course is designed to help future early childhood care professionals become effective caregivers and advocates for young children with special needs and their families by learning how to apply strategies to address learning differences. Students will explore some of the more common learning differences and disabilities currently encountered in the inclusive classroom. They will explain the value of early identification of special needs and the importance of intervening early, in accordance with relevant federal legislation. Students also will demonstrate how to communicate and collaborate with families in real-world situations for the benefit of the child with special needs.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 101

    Total Prerequisites Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 90

    Core

    200 LEVEL: ARTS AND HUMANITIES COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 18
    Total Program Credits: 90

    200 LEVEL: PHYSICAL SCIENCE COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 18
    Total Program Credits: 90

    200 LEVEL: SOCIAL SCIENCE COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 18
    Total Program Credits: 90

    200 LEVEL: PROFESSIONALISM AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT COURSE (3 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 18
    Total Program Credits: 90

    Major

    CE 300: OBSERVATION AND ASSESSMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course prepares students to use the various methods of assessment and observation, including standardized and authentic assessment strategies, as a way to assess children’s growth and the development of knowledge and skills. Students will apply assessment strategies through virtual field experiences and case studies to identify developmental levels, interests, and abilities, and interpret the data collected.

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 310: CHILDREN’S LITERACY (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on how children’s literature experiences contribute to children’s literacy skills. Students will be introduced to a balanced reading framework: shared, modeled, guided, and some independent reading and writing strategies. Reading fluency and comprehension strategies will be emphasized. How to apply assessment strategies, including running reading records, anecdotal records of reading progress, and pre-emergent and emergent literacy scales, will be introduced.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 320: LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT IN THE YOUNG CHILD (6 Credits)

    This course focuses on language acquisition, development, and communication skills. Students will participate in and use virtual field observations and readings to learn about theories of and influences on how young children acquire and develop language. Students will be presented with an overview of the stages of oral language development and will discuss current thinking with regard to bilingualism.

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 330: TEACHING ACROSS CONTENT—MATH, SCIENCE, AND SOCIOLOGY FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (6 Credits)

    This course examines the teaching skills of inquiry and discovery-based learning in math and science for young children. Using current theories of development, students develop a working knowledge of methods and materials, scope and sequence of concepts through age eight, related curriculum standards, and assessment strategies. The mathematical concepts of numbers, geometry, problem solving, patterns, parts and wholes, measurement, and graphing will be examined. The processes of science will be explored. Students apply sociology concepts as they relate to children within the classroom and the community at large. Students will also learn how to incorporate goals, objectives, and processes into integrated curriculum.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 410: TEACHING ART AND MUSIC IN EARLY CHILDHOOD (6 Credits)

    This course will examine the foundations and theories of the creative arts with young children. Students will learn how to encourage imagination, flexible thinking, problem solving, and creative movement in order to formulate connections with the processes that children employ in their creative expression. Students will use course knowledge to plan developmentally appropriate creative activities for children.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 420: CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This course compares the history, theories, research, and contemporary influences of curriculum development in early childhood education. Developmentally appropriate early childhood lesson plans and activities will be analyzed and developed.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 430: LEARNING THROUGH PLAY IN THE INCLUSIVE CLASSROOM (6 Credits)

    This course further examines the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, and others to demonstrate how children learn through play and the effect play has on all the developmental domains. Students will learn how to incorporate necessary skill development and assistive technology into play while addressing the individual needs of all children in the classroom.
     

    Prerequisites Required: CE 300

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    CE 499: BACHELOR’S CAPSTONE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (6 Credits)

    This final course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their learning in a comprehensive manner. Students will reflect on the courses taken and develop an understanding of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards, developmentally appropriate practices based upon child development research, curriculum, and professionalism. This course will culminate with a comprehensive professional portfolio that integrates the learning throughout the program.
     

    Prerequisites Required: Last term or permission of the Dean

    Total Major Credits: 48
    Total Program Credits: 90

    Electives

    OPEN ELECTIVES (24 Credits)

    Total Electives Credits: 24
    Total Program Credits: 90

    Tuition & Fees: Online Track

    The 25% tuition reduction applies only to international students living outside of the United States. This discount does not apply to military students. Please check with your advisor to see if you are eligible. 

    The 25% tuition reduction applies only to international students living outside of the United States. This discount does not apply to military students. Please check with your advisor to see if you are eligible. 

    The 25% tuition reduction applies only to international students living outside of the United States. This discount does not apply to military students. Please check with your advisor to see if you are eligible. 

    Online Track Online &
    Learning Center     		Campus
    Cost Per Credit
    Number of Credits / Terms  
    Total Tuition Cost

    Tuition and Fees

    Some programs have additional associated fees that are not included in the price of tuition. Click here or check with an Admissions Advisor for more information. 

    Learn More about Kaplan University Tuition and Fees  

    Notice to Learning Center Students

    Kaplan University Learning Center students will only complete a portion of this program on site. You will need to complete at least 50% of the program requirements online, or through transfer credit awarded via prior learning assessment. If you have any questions about these requirements, please speak with an admissions advisor.

    Scholarships and Grants

    Learn more about grants and Kaplan University Scholarships and that may help reduce the cost of your education.

    Kaplan University tuition reductions (including active-duty, spouse, and veterans military tuition rates; scholarships; grants; vouchers; and alumni and alliance reductions) cannot be combined. 

    Tuition Rates for Military Students and Spouses

    Kaplan University has significantly reduced many of our tuition rates and fees for active-duty servicemembers, their spouses, and veterans. Click here for more information.
     

  • See Also

  • Some states have additional curricular requirements. Check the University Catalog or speak with an Admissions Advisor.

  • * Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition, Childcare Workers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/childcare-workers.htm.(Accessed April, 2012) National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.

    † Kaplan University cannot guarantee employment or career advancement.

    ‡ While many of Kaplan University's degree programs are designed to prepare graduates to pursue continued bachelor-, graduate- or doctorate-level education, the University cannot guarantee that students will be granted admission to any programs. 

    § The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development is not represented as meeting specific state Board of Education criteria for assisting with children and teachers in a public school setting. Students are encouraged to check with their local school district on specific college education requirements needed in these fields. This program will not certify graduates to become licensed teachers.
    Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development program at a Maine campus and who are interested in seeking state of Maine early childhood and/or special education teacher certifications must successfully complete any required student teaching hours and additional specified electives to meet state certification eligibility requirements. Some certification options require an additional term of full-time student teaching for eligibility.

    # Associate’s and bachelor’s degrees and credits considered to be remedial, occupational, or specialized may not be accepted for transfer. Average completion time based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete. Refer to the University Catalog for our Transfer of Credit policy.

Arts and Sciences

Request Information

  • Step 1 of 3
  • Call Now: 866 KAPLAN U

Featured

  • Military Self Enroll promo new
  • 75th anniversary
  • Kaplan Commitment