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Early Childhood Education

Major

The School of Education and Human Services

The Early Childhood Education program prepares students to support the learning, growth, and well-being of young children during their most important developmental years. Students study child development, learning theory, and effective teaching practices while building the skills needed to create engaging, inclusive, and nurturing learning environments.

Student helping child who is playing a math game

Opportunities & Outcomes

The program emphasizes compassion, service, and respect for every child. Through hands-on classroom experiences and guided fieldwork, students gain the confidence and professional preparation needed to make a meaningful impact in early learning settings.

Career Pathways

An Early Childhood Education degree prepares students for teaching, leadership, and support roles focused on young learners and families, as well as for graduate study.

Early Learning & Classroom Teaching

  • Preschool teacher*
  • Early childhood or pre-kindergarten teacher*
  • Head Start or early learning program teacher
  • Childcare or early learning center educator

Program Leadership & Administration

  • Childcare or early learning center director*
  • Program coordinator or curriculum assistant
  • Early childhood program administrator
  • Family or parent engagement coordinator

Community, Family & Support Services

  • Family services or support specialist
  • Early intervention or developmental support roles*
  • Community outreach or education coordinator
  • Nonprofit or social service organization staff

Education Support & Advocacy

  • Early childhood education advocate
  • Curriculum or instructional support roles
  • Education policy or program assistant
  • Child development or assessment support positions

Graduate & Professional Pathways

  • Graduate study in early childhood or elementary education
  • Special education or child development programs
  • Education leadership or administration graduate study

*Licensure or certification requirements may apply depending on role and state.

Programs of Study Offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (Licensure Pathway)
Education student helping a grade school student

Illinois Scholarship

Early childhood professionals who are seeking a Level 2, 3, 4, or 5 ECE Credential, specifically for those working with children from birth through age 8, are encouraged to complete their coursework at QU. Gateways to Opportunity, the Illinois Professional Development System, supports those working in the field of early care and education through this credentialing system. Credentials are awarded and recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Bureau of Child Care and Development. Gateways to Opportunity Scholarship, available to those who have worked in a year-round program for at least a year, providing up to 100% tuition coverage.

Faculty Spotlight

Danette Parham, MEd, MHS, CCC-SLP

Danette Parham, MEd, MHS, CCC-SLP

Instructor of Early Childhood Education

Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Science

Bonaventure Program

Every QU student’s foundation for our liberal arts education, involving service learning, signature courses, writing, technological literacy. Program Requirements

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