Early Childhood and Special Education
Early Childhood P-4 Degree Program
Early Childhood Professional Preparation
The Department of Early Childhood and Special Education is committed to implementation of an exemplary P-4 program based on the essential knowledge of current research findings and sound professional practices, dispositions necessary to excel in collaborative and interactive relationships, and exceptional performances implemented in today's ever changing early childhood classrooms. Teacher education candidates graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Central Arkansas and qualify for an initial license for teaching children preschools through fourth grade. They achieve successful preparation through a dynamic and changing process to ensure the quality of educators in the 21st century and their ability to meet the needs of a diverse society. Teacher candidates gain expertise in areas of child development, academic content, and pedagogy with specialized emphasis on technology, collaboration, family/community, reflective decision-making, and diversity.
The Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Early Childhood Education (P-4) is a 128 hour program consisting of general education classes and specialized education classes as identified on our check sheet. They also need to complete field experiences in schools (Junior Block Field Packet; Internship I Field Packet). Here is a list of school liaisons for all partnership schools. For information on admission, field experiences and directed teaching, please see Candidates' Services. Teacher Candidates who successfully complete this program and meet other requirements established by the state of Arkansas will be eligible to seek an initial teacher's license through the Arkansas Department of Education.
Candidates in the P-4 program are assigned an academic advisor in the Department of Early Childhood and Special Education at the sophomore level. The department secretary works with candidates in the assignment of advising. For information on advisor assignment, see Advisor ID Assignment.
Candidates in the P-4 program are welcome to join our student organization-Teachers United
Information for ESCE P-4 Students