Early Childhood Education – Academics

Early Childhood Studies

Students who choose this program generally want to work with children from birth through age eight, either as a teacher or in a similar capacity. You’ll take courses that focus on educational equity, cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in preparation for work with the youngest of students. Learn about language and motor development before moving to a potential career in a preschool, Head Start or other non-licensure setting.

Choose from B.A.S. or B.S.

Four-Year Degree Plan

Related majors

Meet your professors

credits required for the Early Childhood Studies major

students enrolled in the Early Childhood Studies program

of master's degree can be completed as an undergrad at WOU

of students who apply to WOU are selected for admission

Sample four-year degree plan

Learning outcomes

Develop reflective teacher leaders who are advocates for young children and their families
Create an inclusive climate where diversity is valued
Demonstrate evidence of appropriate content knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to provide quality care and early education for all young children (birth-fourth grade) and their families

Career opportunities

Child care specialist
Early childhood curriculum developer
Head Start instructor
Elementary classroom aide

Faculty

CINDY RYAN

Associate Professor, Division Chair, Education & Leadership
ryanc@wou.edu

ANDREA EMERSON

Early Childhood Studies Program Coordinator , Education & Leadership
emersona@wou.edu

YA-FANG CHENG

Associate Professor, Education & Leadership
chengy@wou.edu

This public directory does not include employees who have requested confidentiality. Please use the WOU internal directory to view all employees.

QUESTIONS - Education

Contact Us

Phone : 503-838-8471

Email: education@wou.edu

Location: RWEC 120

Department Website

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

Accessibility Public Records Privacy Student Consumer Information

WOU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by WOU.