B.A. Early Childhood Education in California
As actively engaged participants, students in the B.A. in Early Childhood Education on-campus program learn about essential principles and theories of pedagogy and child development and engage in supervised learning experiences to integrate and apply their knowledge. B.A. in ECE on-campus students will learn strategies for facilitating growth and development in cognitive development and motor skills, language and psychosocial learning, tailoring learning to the cultural needs of all children, and appreciating what each child and family has to offer.
Please note: All School of Education programs are taught in eight-week sessions: Fall I and II, Spring I and II, Summer 1 and II. All on-campus early childhood education courses are “blended,” with 30 hours of face-to-face/in-class instruction and 15 hours of online instruction.
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Specializations and Teaching Credentials
Licensure
The B.A. in Early Childhood Education degree program provides the coursework, fieldwork, and practicum experience required for various child development permits in the state of California.
Sample BA in Early Childhood Education Courses
Cognitive Development: How Children Learn
This ECE bachelor’s degree course explores the relationship between psychological theory and practice in education. It provides an overview of the application of fundamental principles of psychology to the teaching and learning process of children. This early childhood education course covers topics such as theories of cognitive development, motivation, and classroom instruction.
Child, Family, and Community Partnerships in Early Childhood Education
This early childhood education course examines the requisite knowledge and skills to successfully establish, support, and maintain respectful collaborative relationships between today’s diverse families, schools/centers, and community resources. Bachelor in Early Childhood Education students will also be introduced to inclusive programs for children and schools that serve young children with and without special needs.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Completed Application for Admission
- Application fee
- Personal statement
- Identification verification
- Proof of academic history
- Work or Volunteer Experience Summary showing three or more years of significant professional or life experience or an official transcript confirming 24 transferable credits from an institutionally accredited institution with a grade of C or better
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of Pacific Oaks College
- Any degree specific requirements
Applicants with less than 24 credits of transferrable college coursework who do not demonstrate three years of significant professional or life experience outlined on their Work or Volunteer Experience Summary, are required to submit additional documentation:
- One letter of support from someone (a non-relative) familiar with your ability to be successful in this program
- An additional essay (500-750 words). In your essay, please answer the following questions:
- What life and professional experience do you possess that would enable you to be successful in the Pacific Oaks classroom focused on the application of experience to the course content?
- Why it is important to you to study this discipline at a school that emphasizes social justice, cultural humility, and respect for every individual? (Please refer to the mission and vision statements of Pacific Oaks College).
- Interview with a member of the Admissions Committee
Pacific Oaks College prepares you to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible career options and salaries associated with this degree.
Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to this degree program*. Pacific Oaks College is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.
*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions counselor.
Can I complete the B.A. in Early Childhood Education program online?
Yes! Pacific Oaks offers early childhood education online degrees, allowing students the flexibility to choose the mode of learning that suits their needs.
What are the core topics covered in the California early childhood education degree program?
The early childhood education degree program covers a range of topics, from cognitive development and motivation to strategies that cater to the cultural needs of all children. Students will also learn about establishing partnerships between children, families, and communities.
What can you do with an early childhood education degree?
With a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Pacific Oaks, graduates can pursue various careers in early childhood settings, from teachers and administrators to child development specialists and more. Click here to learn about four unexpected jobs for early childhood educators.
Are there specializations within the on-campus B.A. in Early Childhood Education program?
Absolutely! Apart from the general ECE bachelor's degree curriculum, students can specialize in areas such as Trauma Studies, STEAM, Elementary Education, and Elementary Education combined with Special Education.
How long does it take to get an early childhood education degree in California?
The duration of the early childhood education degree program at Pacific Oaks can vary based on the student's pace and credit transfer. However, it's important to note that all School of Education programs at Pacific Oaks are taught in eight-week sessions: Fall I and II, Spring I and II, and Summer I and II. Students will need to complete the required courses and meet all program requirements to earn their degree.