Minor in Early Childhood Education

Overview

The Minor in Early Childhood Education program at Arizona Christian University trains you in the art and science of teaching young children. You will learn that teaching is not compartmentalized but it is a rich combination of research-based theories and hands-on practical experience. The program emphasizes practicality. Through the lens of extensive experience, ACU faculty provide you with timely and valuable glimpses into today’s classrooms. The final and most valuable attribute is the emphasis on mentoring. Because of the intentional small class sizes at ACU, you will be able to develop strong mentoring relationships with your instructors. This mentoring begins in the classroom and beyond graduation.

Why a Minor in Early Childhood Education at ACU?

In addition to small class sizes and a rigorous, biblically integrated curriculum, ACU’s Minor in Early Childhood program offers several unique advantages:

• Core Early Childhood coursework is integrated with the fieldwork so that new learning is applied right away.
• Faculty in the department have an average of 20 years of experience in the field, meaning you are taught by leaders in education who have extensive classroom experience.
• Small class sizes create a safe, comfortable setting to practice your teaching and hone your skills.
• God’s Word and His Truths are foundational in all coursework at ACU.

What will I study?

The Minor in Early Childhood Education provides a biblical liberal arts foundation with an innovative approach to general studies. CORE courses reclaim a Christian conception of the Liberal Arts, preparing students to be influential thinkers. Minor-related focus areas are based on the Arizona Early Learning and NAEYC standards and include these areas:

• Curriculum and instruction for the young child
• Human development of the young child
• Children’s literature
• Research based methods for teaching Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies specifically geared for the young child
• Special education methods and services for the young child
• Learning environments for the young child

Career Paths

Graduates who meet the requirements of the Minor in Early Childhood are prepared to

• Work in a preschool.
• Be a childcare provider.
• Be a paraprofessional.
• Work with children in various church, parachurch, and nonprofit organizations.