Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education

Overview

A grade of “C” or higher must be earned for all courses required for this Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education major from Western Kentucky University. No minor or second major is required. Students select either the teacher certification concentration (75 hours, which leads to initial certification for Birth-5 years) or the non-certification concentration (68 hours).

Learning outcomes

Graduates of the certification concentration are eligible to apply for certification in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE), Birth to Primary. Graduates of this concentration are prepared for preschool and kindergarten positions in public schools, early intervention programs (i.e., First Steps), Head Start programs, and other public and private agencies serving young children and families. 

Graduates of the non-certification concentration are prepared for preschool and kindergarten positions in private schools, Head Start programs, and other public and private agencies serving young children and families; or as a First Steps Service Coordinator.

The IECE program will prepare and engage learners:

• in current research and recommended practices in early childhood/early childhood special education (EC / ECSE) that emphasizes performance-based standards;
• as lifelong learners who actively engage in the learning process through coursework, field experiences, and research;
• to support and engage young children and families in a variety of settings through collaborative efforts with an array of professionals;
• with knowledge, skills, and dispositions in working with young children with and without disabilities, delays, or risks across all settings;
• to partner with families through family-centered approaches;
• in culturally and linguistically responsive practices that address the diverse needs of children and families through individual and community engagement; and
• in leadership opportunities and activities within the EC / ECSE field.

Concentrations

• Non-Teacher Certification (IECE)
• Teacher Education (TCHR)