Department of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education Disciplines

Competent and caring educators are vital to America's future. Majoring in Human Development (Early Childhood), Interdisciplinary Studies, Middle Grades or Special Education prepares those who wish to make a difference in the lives of the nation's youth.

The two majors in Human Development (Early Childhood and Teacher Licensure Emphasis) and the majors in Interdisciplinary Studies and Middle Grades primarily prepare students for a profession as an early childhood teacher (PreK-3), an elementary teacher (K-6) or a middle grades teacher (4-8). A major in Human Development, Business Emphasis, prepares students for working with younger children in agencies and schools where teacher licensure is not required or for graduate work in child and family studies. The courses in psychology, sociology, cultural anthropology, linguistics and health provide knowledge in the stages of early human development and family organizations as well as an understanding of how these stages are influenced by culture.

The major in Special Education, Teacher Licensure Emphasis, prepares students for a profession as a special education teacher (K-12) in a resource setting, in a self-contained class, or as an inclusion teacher in a general education classroom. A major in Special Education, Support Services         Emphasis, is appropriate for students who wish to pursue a career in a child care area, alternative schools, or education faculties housed within psychiatric hospitals, as well as in the mental health or social services areas.

 

 

Spotlight On

Dewayne Knight
Dr. Dewayne Knight
Health, Exercise Sci, & Sec Educ

Associate Professor of Athletic Training