Early Childhood Studies

Direct Entry Program

The program follows a tripartite curriculum model that includes core courses, professionally-related courses and liberal studies courses.

Full-time direct entry students can anticipate completing the program in four semesters, the equivalent of two years of full-time study. The part-time program provides flexibility and options to direct entry students by offering evening and Saturday classes as well as distance education courses. Students in the part-time program study at their own pace and have up to seven years to complete the program.

Qualified, successful applicants enter the 3rd year leading to a Bachelor of Arts (Early Childhood Studies).

Year 3: Enhanced Specialization and Professional Preparation

The third year of the program emphasizes either a broad-based preparation for graduate work in early childhood studies or allied fields, or more specialized preparation for teaching young children in the schools or early learning environments. Students integrate the foundational knowledge they have achieved with specific skills related to research, assessment and evaluation of children's development, and the promotion of early literacy learning.

The two research courses in third year address research methods and skills related to quantitative and qualitative research followed by the application of the skills they have learned in a research project. A course in the diversity of Canadian families continues the focus on contexts in which children are nurtured and promotes greater understanding of the diverse cultural fabric of our schools and communities.

Students practice skills in a twelve-week, two-day per week placement in an inclusive or specialized setting for young children with disabilities.

Professionally-related electives allow students to pursue courses related to one of the minors offered by the School and to broaden their understanding of contexts and issues through interdisciplinary studies.

Year 4: Advanced Learning and Preparation for the Workplace

The fourth year of the program emphasizes the student as an emerging professional and global citizen who is developing the perspectives and leadership capabilities that go beyond the basic professional skills.

Students examine contemporary issues, cognitive development, and an introduction to therapeutic interventions such as music, art, speech, physical, and occupational therapies in their elective courses as well as issues related to the social, political, and legal interface among early childhood, school, family and society. Students also learn more about leadership, policy-making and advocacy in the profession and pursue knowledge of inclusive and consultation practices. In addition, students have the opportunity to study concept development in mathematics and science, as well as the use of technology in early childhood education.

A Senior Internship in Year 4 allows students the opportunity to pursue a placement setting according to their career interests and goals. Students also have the option to complete the Senior Internship in an international setting in the Spring/Summer Term prior to Year 4.