Welcome to the state of Georgia, where the educational system stands as testimony to the state’s staunch commitment to providing a quality education from Kindergarten to doctorate. Georgia’s educational landscape symbolizes dedication to nurturing young minds and preparing them for brighter futures.
At the core of this educational system lies the acknowledgement of immense early childhood education. Early childhood years are important for a child’s social-economical development, academic success, and overall physical well-being and must be handled in expert hands.
Only influential educators can unlock the boundless potential of our youngest learners. Georgia offers abundant opportunities for aspiring educators and keen advocates of early childhood education. Let’s begin our journey of diving deeper into endless learning opportunities in Georgia, from Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s to Doctorate programs in various top-rank universities!
Early Childhood Education Degrees in Georgia
Here are some of the top-ranked institutes in Georgia offering programs in Early Childhood Education:
Associate Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
Georgia Piedmont Technical College –Associate Degree Program in Early Childhood Education
Georgia Piedmont Technical College, located in Clarkston, Georgia, is a public community college thriving in excellence in Early Childhood Education. The Associate Degree Program at this college integrates early childhood care, theoretical knowledge, general core competencies, and practical knowledge for successful employment.
The Associate Degree graduates will specialize in one of the five areas: family child care, infant/toddlers, exceptionalities, paraprofessional/school age, or program administration. You will thrive in this program if you deeply understand a child’s growth and development and health and safety.
Moreover, this program highlights children’s physical, academic, and emotional growth from birth through age 8. This college, accredited for 50 years by “The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools,” has a 99% job placement rate.
This program qualifies graduates for early childhood education settings, including Head Start, child care centers, Pre-K programs, and many more. The Associate Degree program graduates are eligible to articulate their credits into a higher “Teacher Preparation Program” at the university to advance their studies.
Georgia State University –Associate in Science (A.S.) and Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Early Childhood Education
One of the four research universities in Georgia, Georgia State University, is the public research university in Atlanta offering two Associate programs in early childhood education. Perimeter College at Georgia State University, accredited by “The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools: Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC),” is concerned with Early Childhood Education.
The Associate in Arts and Associate in Science aims to prepare future teachers by learning educational policies, behaviors, philosophies, and instruction to perform classroom duties. Through introductory courses in this program, you will be able to learn critical appraisal of issues affecting the youngest learners in pre-kindergarten through grade 3.
This 60-credit-hour program comprises 42 hours of core curriculum along with 18 hours of appropriate field-specific courses. If you are excited about working with children and impacting their lives positively, begin your journey to become an influential educator at Georgia State University!
Georgia Military College –Associate Program in Early Childhood Education
Suppose you are looking for an affordable and quick path to becoming a teacher’s assistant, daycare instructor, or library assistant. In that case, this Associate program at Georgia Military College suits you. This 2-year program will make you eligible for job placements and transfer you to 4-year education programs at universities.
This course aims to impart fundamental knowledge, skills, and competencies required by accentuating modern theories and advanced research. You will get hands-on experience and participation opportunities in diverse field experiences here. Also, students get additional content preparation in earth and physical science, mathematics, and life necessary for educating young learners.
This program has an approximate annual cost of $7,785 at Georgia Military University, with the flexibility of both on-campus and online courses. You can also avail of their entire online program option if you are caught up in a couple of other courses.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
University of North Georgia –Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Early Childhood Education
The University of Georgia is one of the largest universities in the state, which provides quality education and offers more than 100 programs. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Early Childhood Education at this university suits people who want to pursue a career in preschool teaching, curriculum planning, or child grooming.
Once you enroll in this course, you have to complete 120 hours per semester of field experience in PK-5 classrooms in the daytime and 6-9 hours of coursework per semester in the evenings. Moreover, after completing B.S. in the childhood education program at the University of Georgia degree, graduates are competent for “Georgia Teacher Certification” in early childhood education.
This program permits students to become certified mentors for pre-kindergarten to 5th grade. By gaining exhaustive and real-world experiences, students get detailed knowledge about early childhood psychological and personality development. The program highlights child development, assessment methods, social and emotional learning, inclusion and special education, and more.
Kennesaw State University- Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
Kennesaw State University is a wide-ranging and third-largest university in Georgia, offering many programs and degrees to students worldwide. A Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education is offered to students, primarily focusing on nurturing children’s minds and shaping their futures. You will complete a demanding teaching experience in early childhood education at Kennesaw State University.
This program provides two concentrations, “Non-certification Concentration” and “Traditional Certification Concentration.” The program prepares you to maintain young children in the crucial years of their lives by focusing on their cognitive, psychological, and emotional development. The students are given real-world experience during the program to understand practical work in the field. This 4-year degree has been designed with 120 credit hours.
The program is suitable for those individuals who wish to guide and work with toddlers, Kindergarten, and preschool children. The students will be able to communicate with young children and be familiar with the worldwide perception of young children’s education and learning.
Go West Georgia University -Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Early Childhood Education
The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at Go West Georgia University has been designed to prepare candidates for an initial teaching endorsement. Only Go West Georgia University’s Carrollton Campus, Newnan, offers this 4-year bachelor’s program. The majors of this course include educational psychology, integrating curriculum, classroom management for Pre K-5, instruction, practicums, and many more.
The university provides a “renewable teaching certificate (T-4)” to the graduates of this program. The students of this program acknowledge arts, classroom management, social studies, assessment techniques, mathematics, and communication with parents and families. The program necessitates 129 credit hours with four year completion time. It aims to prepare generous and capable graduates enthusiastic about nurturing and fostering the development of young children’s lives.
The program also offers a hands-on learning experience by providing practical opportunities in demonstration rooms. Students are allowed to contribute, observe and participate in young children’s classrooms for better understanding. To enroll in the program, you must fill out an online application, pay $40, and attach the official transcripts of all your previous schools.
Georgia College and State University –Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Early Childhood Education
Georgia College and State University, located in Milledgeville, offers you an exciting Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Early Childhood Education to train educators for inspiring careers in nurturing the youngest learners.
GCSU’s B.S. in early childhood education offers an extensive curriculum incorporating all vital information regarding mathematics instruction, child philosophy, literacy development, special education, and much more. Future educators or mentors at this university can learn through Assistive technology, 3-D printers, and high-tech concerted workspace.
A high-quality education with mentorship is provided to students to ensure they prepare well for their careers. The program focuses on emotional, behavioral, social, physical, and intellectual early childhood education. Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in early childhood education at Georgia College and state university requires 42 credit hours with active class participation.
The most exciting fact about this university is that many students receive teaching offers before graduation. Enroll yourself and begin your learning journey today at GCSU!
Master’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
Here are a few high-ranked universities offering Master’s degree programs in Georgia!
University of West Georgia-Master in Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education
One of the most dynamic universities and recognized among the nation’s top institutes, the University of West Georgia has its campuses in Carrollton. Master in Education (M.Ed.) in early childhood education at this university aims to promote research-based practices ensuring all children learn.
One of the most important prerequisites to apply to this program is that applicants must have an undergraduate/bachelor’s degree in Elementary or Early Childhood Education. Only applicants with a renewable professional certificate in Elementary or Early Childhood Education with a minimum GPA of 2.7 or more are eligible for the M.Ed. program at the University of West Georgia.
This program comprises at least 36 hours of coursework and additional electives, internships, and practical experience. The coursework consists of 15 hours of elementary education, 9 hours of professional studies, 6 hours of assessment and research, and 6 hours of electives. However, this degree has no initial certification in early childhood education.
Graduates of UWG have a higher job placement rate in various public and private educational setups. You can apply for education consultant, early childhood teacher, play therapist, primary school/preschool teacher, curriculum planner, teaching assistant, and many more.
University of Georgia- Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Elementary Education
The University of Georgia is a public research institution and one of the oldest universities in the Athens, Georgia, region. It provides a Master of Education (M.Ed.) program specifically tailored for those individuals who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in Elementary Education.
This program exposes you to various skills, including assessment techniques, educational research, classroom management, etc. This program comprises elementary curricula, educational theory, and methods courses in literacy, language, mathematics, and social studies. The program also allows you to carry out and design research projects related to Elementary or Childhood Education.
You can also earn “endorsements in ESOL,” gifted education, and reading through electives. The program concentrates on preparing graduates to work with pre-kindergarten to 5th-grade children. As per the requirements, a student should have a bachelor’s degree related to Elementary Education and a minimum GPA of 2.8 or above on a four-point scale.
On the whole, The program consists of 12 classes in the following regions: research, psychological foundation, school subjects, teaching and curriculum, and social and historical foundations.
Ph.D. Programs in Early Childhood Education
Georgia State University- PhD in Early Childhood Education
Georgia State University offers many programs and degrees for undergraduates and graduates with 50 years of experience in teaching, research, knowledge and inspiration. The university offers not only bachelor’s and master’s degree programs but also a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Early Childhood Education for students who desire to expand their knowledge in this field.
This program is suitable for people who want to become comprehensive and collaborative researchers and scholars keen to do research in various aspects of Early Childhood Education. The coursework involves early childhood development, behavior, community and family traditions, and psychology. The program requires that each doctoral student have experience with young children and have participated in residency experiences.
Georgia State University might have some admission requirements, such as a minimum GPA of 3.0 and teaching experience in Early Childhood Education. This 60-credit-hour doctoral program in Early Childhood Education at GSU is divided into two components. The major part requires 27 hours of basic courses. The other research part requires 21 hours related to research courses.
The mentors provide faculty mentorship to postgraduate students of this program to develop their research interests. To enhance students’ teaching ability, leadership, research, and presentation skills, GSU offers professional development opportunities. Georgia State University also provides funding and financial support to deserving students.
University of Georgia- Ph.D. in Educational Theory and Practice (Early Childhood Education)
The University of Georgia offers a comprehensive and prominent Ph.D. program in Educational Theory and Practice specializing in Early Childhood Education. The program has well-known recognition in the U.S. and is ranked as a top 5 program by U.S. News and World Record. Students gain in-depth knowledge and advanced research skills throughout the curriculum, especially in Early Childhood Education.
The faculty members of this program have specialized in numerous areas related to language, culture, ability, families, socio-cultural, historical contexts, and multiculturalism, which mainly emphasizes the understanding of these impacts in children, families, education settings, and practitioners. This doctoral program also highlights the challenges and needs of Early Childhood Education on national and global levels by drawing research traditions and diverse theories. The program prepares students to become influential educators, researchers, and practical leaders.
The program’s curriculum includes 43 hours of coursework, a dissertation, a prospectus, and comprehensive and preliminary examinations. This program’s prerequisites include a writing sample highlighting the applicant’s ability and academic and intellectual ideas regarding scholarly writing, a curriculum vitae, and a resume that emphasizes your work history, research experience, educational background, and any qualification and achievement related to the application.
Early Childhood Education Degrees in Georgia– Online
Let’s discuss in detail some online early childhood education degrees!
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
Valdosta State University- Online Bachelor in Elementary Education
Valdosta State University provides many comprehensive programs, and Online Bachelor in Elementary Education is one of those brilliant programs. The program prepares students to become certified teachers for prekindergarten to 5th-grade children in Georgia. The program is designed with intense emphasis on “experiential learning, ” providing opportunities to develop knowledge and skills to support young Children’s personal social, psychological, emotional, and physical development.
This fully online Bachelor program in Early Childhood Education provides candidates with quality education. The program covers a wide range of courses: Science of Reading, emergent literacy through Children’s Literature, technology for Learning, Elementary education practicum, Introduction to developmentally appropriate practice, methods for multicultural education, etc. Moreover, the program features an 8-week course requiring 120 credit hours.
Begin your virtual learning experience at Valdosta State University today!
Master’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
University of North Georgia –Online Masters in Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education
Masters in Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education at the University of North Georgia is designed for certified educators having a degree in Elementary or Early Childhood Education. It’s an entirely online program that is usually completed in six semesters with a total of 39 credit hours. Students have to take two courses per semester, making up courses throughout the program.
The cohort format of this program, comprising both asynchronous classes and synchronous meetings, ensures a great virtual learning experience. Moreover, you can also earn several certificate endorsements during the 2-year program, which must be completed in four consecutive semesters.
This online program has three basic requirements, including:
- Baccalaureate from an accredited institution with at least a 2.75 GPA calculated in accordance with “Graduate Admissions Procedures.”
- GRE General Test score greater than 301 verbal or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) score greater than 391
- A renewable, clearer teaching certificate
The application process is quite simple; you must fill out an online application, pay the application fees of $40, submit official transcripts of previously attended schools, add official entrance test scores, and verify lawful presence in the U.S. Begin your journey today at the University of North Georgia!
Kennesaw State University –Online Master of Education (M.Ed) in Elementary and Early Childhood Education
A Master of Education in Elementary and Early Childhood Education at Kennesaw State University is ideal for certified teachers who want to enhance their knowledge, expertise, and teaching practices in Early Childhood Education.
The university permits the P-5 Elementary education certified teachers to continue their teaching practice while earning this 13-month M.Ed. program. Since it’s an entirely online program that follows a cohort format, each cohort is supervised by an expert faculty member/mentor who facilitates the program delivery and ensures maximum interaction.
Moreover, you get the schedule to manage your time for online classes beforehand. The starting and ending dates of each semester’s course are in accordance with the public school calendar. In addition to the Master’s degree requirements, you are endorsed with a KSU certificate that further enhances your resume in the teaching profession.
Georgia College and State University- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Elementary Education
Georgia College and State University is a well-known University in Georgia offering various graduate programs in education and a Master of Education(MEd) program in Elementary Education. The program is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge in Elementary Education and expertise as teachers of Elementary aged children.
The courses of this program are fully offered online, and there is no requirement for on-campus visits. The program’s curriculum is similar to the on-campus program and covers different aspects of elementary education. The program also offers students specialized courses, elective options, and core education courses to enhance their knowledge in Elementary Education.
The program’s requirement is a minimum GPA of 2.5 on four point-scale or 2.5 GPA with three years of teaching experience in Elementary Education. This program holds recognition from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The program supports in-service teachers during induction years and upgrades their endorsement level to T-4, T-5.
Valdosta State University- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Elementary Education
Valdosta State University is a vibrant institution with many programs and a supportive learning environment. Master of Education (M.Ed) in Elementary Education is also provided for those individuals who want to enhance their knowledge with an opportunity to improve their professional capabilities.
The program provides a comprehensive and deep understanding of theories and research knowledge related to Elementary and Early Childhood Education. The 36-credit-hours coursework of the program includes curriculum alignment and development, mathematics, positive behavior support, classroom management, educational inquiry, and a lot of research. The program provides a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare graduates with extensive knowledge in Elementary Education.
The online program provides a flexible environment for students to pursue M.Ed. in Elementary Education. The program’s prerequisites include a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale and a T-4 certificate in Early Childhood or Elementary Education. Enroll yourself today, submit an online application form with official transcripts, pay the tuition fees, and begin your journey!
Conclusion
Georgia has been prospering in early childhood education for decades because they truly comprehend the importance of these crucial years in a child’s life. Educators at various childhood institutes in Georgia are working tirelessly to positively influence young learners’ psychological, physical, and emotional growth.
We have enlisted high-ranked colleges and universities, both public and private, offering various degree programs in early childhood education. Whether it’s an Associate or Doctoral program, each degree contributes to improving early childhood education. If you are one of those aspiring educators, choose your pathway, enroll in a program, and begin your educational journey today in Georgia!
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