This concentration focuses on inquiry-based learning of developmentally appropriate practice, family and community engagement, assessment and evaluation approaches, and technology. The program’s emphasis is on learning to design, implement, and assess innovative curricula to address the developmental needs of young children, and using ethical practice and advocacy to create high-quality and equitable programs for young children and families in varied settings. Students apply theoretical knowledge to action research studies, and are prepared take leadership roles in the field of early childhood education. While the program in itself, does not lead to initial teacher licensure, it provides a pathway for teachers who have successfully completed WPU’s ECE (P-3) Alternate Route graduate certificate to advance toward a master’s degree. View Required Courses and Course Descriptions in the University Course catalogClick Here: Curriculum and Learning: Early Childhood, MED Entry Requirements: Each applicant must demonstrate that he or she can fulfill the requirements of the program, including the ability to read and write at a graduate level, the capability to do graduate level academic work, and an interest in educational theory and practice. Toward this end the requirements for admission are: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and official transcripts from all institutions of higher learning attended: A cumulative minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement may supplement their application with additional evidence in support of their academic potential for successful completion of the degree program) A copy of a CEAS or standard teaching license (Program directors have discretion to waive this requirement based on unique circumstances). Exit Requirements: The completion of 30 credits of prescribed program curriculum
