B.S. - Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education major at Bemidji State University leads to a bachelor's degree and teacher licensure. Graduates are qualified to teach infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers, and children enrolled in kindergarten and grades one through three. In addition to teaching in public schools, graduates are qualified to teach in Head Start programs, Early Childhood Family Education programs, childcare centers, and family childcare homes.

Course Work

The Early Childhood Education major is 78 credits and can be completed in four years of full-time study at Bemidji State University. Most courses taken during the first and second year of study are liberal education requirements. Recommended liberal education coursework includes General Psychology, Speech, Introduction to Indian Studies, Minnesota History, Marriage and the Family, Computers, and Inter-cultural Communication.

**Students who complete an A.S. degree in early childhood/childhood education programs at Northwest Technical College, Itasca Community College, and Central Lakes Community College may be able to substitute up to two semesters of coursework in the Early Childhood Education B.S. major. Contact Dr. Kathleen Sonsteng (218-755-4613) for details.

Alternative Program

An alternative program is available for students who want the option to teach kindergarten or three- and four-year-olds, as well as upper elementary grades. Bemidji State University offers a major in Elementary Education with a Preprimary endorsement. See the BS - Elementary Education program for more information.

For more information concerning the Early Childhood Education program, consult the current Bemidji State University Undergraduate Catalog or contact the Professional Education Department.