Early Childhood Education BS

With our Early Childhood Education bachelor's degree, you'll get to shape the future.

Education major

More than just a career, this degree means an opportunity to instill a love of learning.

Apply to RIC Transfer to RIC

Early childhood educators can be among the most impactful figures in a young child’s life and play a major role in their future educational success. Get started on your path today, with RIC's Early Childhood Education Program.

High-Demand Early Childhood Careers

  • Preschool Teacher
  • Kindergarten Teacher
  • Childcare Center Director
  • Childcare Provider
  • Teacher’s Aide
  • Nanny

Why Earn an Early Childhood Education Bachelor's Degree at Rhode Island College?

  • The demand for early childhood educators is expected to grow even faster than elementary and high school teachers as the availability and awareness of preschool programs grow.
  • Our Early Childhood Education degree offers two concentrations: birth to 5 community programs and teaching. Students concentrating in teaching are eligible for full certification to teach Pre K–Grade 2 in Rhode Island.
  • Early Childhood Education majors have classes in Horace Mann Hall, a state-of-the-art facility for teacher preparation, and our students gain teaching experience in schools throughout Rhode Island.
  • Topics covered include: cognitive development and learning, social/emotional development, early childhood development, English language arts, mathematics and developmental literacy.
diversity_3

Join Our Community

We're thrilled that you're interested in Rhode Island College and we want to make sure that nothing stands in your way of pursuing a RIC degree. Just let us know how we can help you with your next steps.

Teacher helping young student

More Program Specifics

Understand the courses you’ll take, the curriculum requirements to meet, and the concepts you’ll gain mastery of. Get the detailed information you’re looking for. We also offer a specifically-outlined Second Bachelor’s Degree Option for this program.

The RIC Advantage

Our Feinstein School of Education and Human Development is a nationally recognized leader in the field and has a legacy of producing award-winning educators.

Our Elementary Education Faculty

Hear from a Student

Elisa Rivera

Elisa Rivera

“My hope is that I have fostered a love of learning in my students. I want them to feel confident, empowered, supported and prepared for the next school year. I want them to know that although they will move on to the next grade, they will always be my students.”

Students with Character

Program Details

Admission, Retention and Course Information

To pursue our Early Childhood Education BS, you will first apply to Rhode Island College through our general Admissions & Financial Aid processes. You will then apply to our Feinstein School of Education and Human Development, once you are a RIC student and have completed several introductory courses.

Admission, Retention and Course Requirements

Course Descriptions

Rhode Island College entrance

Take the Next Step!

Department of Elementary Education

We offer accredited academic programs that prepare teachers to function effectively in early childhood and elementary school teaching positions.