People who enjoy working with small children would benefit from completing accredited education degree programs in Indiana in order to move into a career as an early childhood professional. Early education professionals provide learning experiences for children under the age of five, teaching reading, writing and other subjects in a manner that small children can understand.
Jobs are available in a variety of settings, including daycare center, public or private schools and charitable organizations. Some professionals work a ten-month year while others work the full year. The average salary for an early education professional in Indiana was $26.900 per year and there were almost 5,100 employed in the state.
Employment of early childhood professionals is expected to grow by seven percent over the next ten years. This growth is expected as education focuses on the importance of early education among children. Early education is important for a child’s short- and long-term intellectual and social development. Some parents are also enrolling children at young ages because of the benefits of early education.
Although some states allow individuals to be employed as early childhood professionals with just a high school diploma, there are some that require at least an associate’s degree. In addition, those who successfully complete bachelor’s degrees in early childhood studies are better able to obtain leadership positions. In fact, at least 50 percent of early childhood specialist in Head Start must have at least a bachelor’s degree. In Indiana, teachers of all grade levels in public schools must have a bachelor’s degree and qualify for licensure in the state. To see more accredited education degree programs in Indiana, visit Early Childhood Education Degree Programs in Indiana (M-Z).
Ball State University
Teacher’s College
Teachers College at Ball State University provides students with an engaging experience that draws on the expertise of teachers, talents of counselors and those involved in curriculum development to create leaders in the education industry. The school consistently ranks among the best in the country prepares professionals for areas that are critical to education. The school offers undergraduate, graduate, certificate and licensing programs designed with the student in mind.
Early Childhood Education
Ball State University offers an accredited early elementary program in Indiana that provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the industry. The curriculum focuses on the educational needs of children from birth to the age of three. Students develop a strong foundation in child development theory and research. Students may also work toward a dual major in early childhood and early childhood special education. Courses required for the accredited early childhood degree include:
- Corrective Reading/Practicum
- Creative Experiences for Young Children
- Data Analysis Geometry, Measurement Elementary Classroom
- Early Elementary Education for Social Justice
- Early Emergent Literacy
- Education in a Democratic Society
- Educational Psychology for Elementary Education
- Elementary School Health Program
- English Composition I & II
- Family and Community Relations
- Fundamentals of Public Communication
- Human Growth & Development for Elementary Education
- Infant/Toddler Development & Education
- Interaction Skills for the Young Child
- Literature for Children
- Literature for Young Children
- Music Basics for the Classroom
- Numbers, Algebra & Probability for Elementary Teachers
- Planning for the Elementary Classroom/Practicum
- Social, Historical and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Teaching and Learning Mathematics in the Elementary School
- Teaching in the Pre-K/Kindergarten Program/Practicum
- Teaching in Kindergarten/Primary programs/Practicum
- Teaching of Reading in Today’s School
- Teaching of Students with Disabilities in the General Education Classroom
- Teaching Social Studies in Early Childhood/Kindergarten
Student teaching experiences are also required.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Contact
Department of Elementary Education
Teachers College, Room 305
Ball State University
Muncie IN 47306
Telephone: 765-285-8560
Bethel College
Education Department
The Education Department at Bethel College prepares students for real-life experiences in the world of education. Field work begins in the student’s freshman year. Students are able to gain hands-on experience in our Kindergarten Lab. Employment rates are high for graduates of Bethel College Education Department. Students may also take advantage of the education club which brings in local educators and authors.
Early Childhood
The accredited early childhood program in Indiana offered by the Education Department at Bethel College is a four-year program that offers the opportunity to minor in a concentration. The program is designed for students who are passionate about working with young children. Graduates have found employment in daycare centers, churches, pre-schools and Head Start. Courses required for the major include:
- Childcare Administration
- Content Methods
- Emergent Literacy
- Math Methods
- Reading and Language Arts II & II
- Science Methods
- Social Studies Methods
- Teaching in the Primary Grades
- Understanding Special Needs Child
A student teaching practicum is also required to complete the program as are general education courses and electives.
Master of Education
Bethel College offers a Master of Education program to prepare students for leadership roles in the education field. Students are able to competently perform roles that demonstrate excellence in teaching through ethical leadership. Students develop their own intellectual, social spiritual and professional goals with an understanding that they are a lifelong process. Students understand the need to be aware of current developments in their field. The program is also available in an online format. Courses required include:
- Assessment and Intervention
- Current Issues in Educational Leadership
- Curriculum Development & School Improvement
- Educational Research
- Effective Instruction and Assessment
- English Language Learning
- Ethics of School Leadership
- Folklore, Children & Adolescent Literature
- Meeting Needs of Diverse Learners
- Mentoring & Supervision of Instruction
- Professional Development & Leadership
- Reading and Writing Difficulties
- School/Community Relations & Accountability
- Writing Process
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Sandra Lesko
Bethel College
1001 Bethel Circle
Mishawaka IN 46545
Telephone: 574-807-7328
Email: Sandra.lesko@bethelcollege.edu
Website:
Undergraduate: http://www.bethelcollege.edu/academics/academic-programs/education/programs-ed.html
Graduate: http://www.bethelcollege.edu/adult-and-graduate/grad/graduate-education/
Indiana University Bloomington
School of Education
The School of Education at Indiana University Bloomington is a lively place where faculty, staff and students focus their attention on the many facets of education. Students are instructed by high-quality faculty in state-of-the art classrooms. In 2016, 118 members of the freshman class participated in IU’s Direct Admit Scholars Program. The school is unique as it is one of a very small number of public universities that prepare educational leaders while maintaining an outstanding research center.
Early Childhood Education Undergraduate
The accredited Early Childhood Education program at Indiana State University Bloomington leads to a four-year degree that prepares students for Indiana state licensing. Students learn the skills and knowledge necessary to plan course plans and environments that encourage learning among young children. Students are provided hands-on experiences in addition to classroom learning. Courses required for the degree include:
- American/World Literature
- Arts & Humanities
- Biological Science for Elementary Teachers
- Books for Reading Instruction
- Diversity in the United States
- Earth: Our Habitable Planet
- Education and American Culture
- Elementary School Child: Physical, Emotional & Social Development
- English Composition Courses
- Enriching Educational Experiences
- Fine Arts Courses (2)
- Foundations of Early Care & Education I, II & III
- Information Fluency
- Intensive Writing
- Introduction to Educational Thought
- Introduction to Scientific Inquiry
- Language Study or World Culture or International Experience
- Legal and Ethical Issues for Teachers
- Mathematical Modeling
- Mathematics (3 to 4 courses)
- Mathematics in the Elementary Schools
- Methods of Teaching Language Arts
- Methods of Teaching Reading
- Natural & Mathematical Sciences
- Oral Expression Course
- Physical Science Through Inquiry
- Play as Development
- Science in the Elementary School
- Social & Historical Studies
- Social Studies Elective
- Social Studies in the Elementary School
- Teaching the Exceptional Learner in Elementary School
- Teaching and Learning for All Young Children
- Teaching and Learning Preschool/Kindergarten
- Teaching Infants/Toddlers & Young Children with Special Needs
- U.S. History
- Using Computers in Education
- World Civilization
Students must also complete a student teaching experience and field experience in each cluster.
Early Childhood Education Graduate
As more young children begin attending school, there is a growing need for leaders in the field of early childhood education. The graduate program at Indiana State University in Bloomington helps students build on prior knowledge and experience as an early childhood professional in order to become leaders in the industry. Students must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a desire to engage in the advanced study of early childhood education. Students learn to organize and administer early childhood programs as well as design curricula for programs designed for young children. The degree is available in either a thesis or practicum option. Courses required include;
- Advanced Curriculum Study in Early Childhood Education
- Child Development
- Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
- Instruction in the Context of Curriculum
- Organization and Administration of Early Childhood Education Programs
- Seminar in Early Childhood Education
The program also requires students to complete between 9 and 12 electives. They must also choose either the Thesis or Practicum option.
Accreditation
- North Central Commission on Institutes of Higher Education
- National Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Contact
Indiana University School of Education
201 North Rose Avenue
Bloomington IN 47405-1006
Telephone: 812-856-8500
Email: educ@indiana.edu
Website:
Undergraduate: http://education.indiana.edu/undergraduate/programs/early-childhood.html
Graduate: http://education.indiana.edu/graduate/programs/early-childhood/MSEd-Elementary-Ed-ECE.html
Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne
College of Education and Public Policy
The College of Education and Public Policy provides exceptional educational experiences to students through classroom learning, internship options and real-world experience. The school constantly seeks innovative ways to assess student learning, focusing on preparing practitioners who are highly-qualified. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for success in the field they plan to enter upon graduation.
Early Childhood Education
The College of Education and Public Policy offers an accredited early education program in Indiana that meets all T.E.A.C.H. requirements. The program build on information gained by students who completed associates programs and provides entry-level information to those who are just entering the academic world to achieve their higher education goals. Students may choose from four options available in the Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood. These options include:
- Birth to Age 5
- Preschool to Grade 3
- Preschool to Grade 6
- 4Year B.S. Degree Preschool to Grade 3
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Dr. Terri Swim
ECE Program
Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne
2101 East Coliseum Boulevard
Fort Wayne IN 46805
Telephone: 260-481-4739
Email: swimt@ipfw.edu
Website: https://www.ipfw.edu/departments/cepp/depts/educational-studies/early/index.html
Indiana University East
School of Education
The School of Education provides students with accredited early education degree programs in Indiana that prepare students for leadership roles in their field. The school offers graduate and undergraduate degrees in educational fields ranging from early education to education administration. In 2014-15, the School of Education had a 100 percent employment rate among its graduates.
B.S. in Elementary Education
The School of Education at Indiana University East offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education that allows students to concentrate their studies in Early Education. Students may also minor in K-12 Mild Intervention, Reading, Math or Physical Education. The program provides students the skills and knowledge they need to excel in a classroom setting. Courses required include:
- Assessment in the Classroom
- Children’s Literature or Trade books for Classroom Teachers
- Classroom Learning Environment
- Early Childhood Educator
- Elementary Student Teaching
- Emergent Literacy
- Foundations of Early Care and Education I, II and III
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- Introduction to Scientific Inquiry
- Math in the Elementary School
- Math for Teachers
- Methods for Kindergarten and Elementary Teachers
- Movement for Teachers
- Play as Development
- Psychology Applied to Teaching Lab
- Science in the Elementary School
- Study of Education & Practice of Teaching
- Teaching Exceptional Learners
- Teaching in a Pluralistic Society
- Teaching Language Arts & Reading
- Teaching Social Studies
- Using Computers in Education
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Indiana University East
800-959 East
2325 Chester Boulevard
Richmond IN 47374
Telephone: 800-959-EAST (3278) or 765-973-8200
Website: http://www.iue.edu/education/programs/bs-elementaryed.php
Indiana University Kokomo
School of Education
Individuals who are interested in a career that guides young people and helps them learn should consider completing an accredited early childhood program in Indiana. The School of Education at Indiana University East will prepare students for licensing in the State of Indiana. There are several educational program options available at IU Kokomo. The faculty is dedicated to helping students on the path to an educator position.
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Minor in Early Education
The Elementary Education program at Indiana University Kokomo is known for high expectations, field experiences and a supportive environment conducive to learning. The program uses a cohort approach that has candidates progressing through the entire program together. The program is grounded in field experiences in the region surrounding IU Kokomo and is tailored to meet Indiana state standards. All education majors are required to choose a minor and those that are interested in working with small children will benefit from the Early Education minor. In order to complete the program, students must complete 120 credits with a grade of C+ or higher in all education courses and at least a C in all non-educational courses. Courses required include:
- Assessment
- Books for Reading Instruction
- Classroom Learning Environment
- Computers in Education: An Introduction
- Early Childhood Educator
- Education and the American Culture
- Educational Psychology for Elementary Teachers
- Elementary Art Methods
- Elementary Language Arts Methods
- Elementary Mathematics Methods
- Elementary Music Methods
- Elementary Reading Methods I & II
- Foundations of Early Care and Education
- General Methods for Kindergarten/Elementary Teachers
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- Introduction to Exceptional Children
- Introduction to Scientific Inquiry
- Movement Experiences for P-6 Children
- Play as Development
- Science Methods
- Social Studies Methods
- Study of Education and the Practice of Teaching
- Teaching in a Pluralistic Society
- Teaching/Learning for Early Childhood
- Teaching the Exceptional Learner in Elementary
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Indiana University Kokomo
2300 South Washington Street
Kokomo IN 46902-9003
Telephone: 765-453-2000
Website: http://iuk.edu/education/degrees/majors/elementary-education/index.php
Indiana University South Bend
School of Education
The School of Education offers undergraduate and graduate courses designed to help students excel in the field of education. Faculty and staff are highly-qualified and are known as outstanding classroom educators who are completely committed to their students. Graduates are prepared for licensing in Indiana as well as for leadership positions in the field they choose.
Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education with Minor in Early Childhood Education
The Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education program at the School of Education is an accredited early education program in Indiana that prepares students for leadership positions in education. Students are provided classroom education as well as hands-on experiences that prepare them for positions as teachers. The program provides students with an understanding of generalist courses taught at the elementary level. Students must earn a GPA of 2.75 prior to admission to the Teacher Education Program. Courses required include:
- American History I
- Infant Learning Environments
- Inquiry in Mathematics and Science
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- Introduction to Exceptional Children
- Introduction to Scientific Inquiry
- Language Arts and Reading I, II and III
- Mathematics in the Elementary Schools
- Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence
- Science in the Elementary Schools
- Social Studies in the Elementary School
- Social Studies Methods and the Family Focus on Young Children
- Teaching the Exceptional Learner in the Elementary School
Students must also complete a field experience and a student teaching practicum.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Indiana University South Bend
1700 Mishawaka Avenue
PO Box 7111
South Bend IN 46634-7111
Telephone: 574-520-IUSB (4872)
Website: https://education.iusb.edu/index.html
Indiana Wesleyan University
School of Teacher Education
The School of Teacher Education at Indiana Wesleyan University has a sense of purpose when it comes to preparing teachers for America’s public schools. They have a mission to prepare teachers who are competent, have heart and passion for their students as well as a desire to see them develop as individuals. The school combines rigorous classroom instruction with teaching practice placements as well as a comprehensive assessment system designed to ensure students develop competencies that will help them achieve their own educational goals.
B.S. in Early Childhood Education
Indiana Wesleyan University offers an accredited early childhood program in Indiana that is available through their adult and online program which offers flexible course schedules that allow working adults to achieve their higher education goals. The program is 120-credit hours that emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in early education. The program includes a minor in Reading. Candidates in the licensure track are required to complete a 16-week, full-time clinical experience in a pre-school to third grade setting. Courses required include:
- Assessment and Response to Intervention in the Early Childhood Profession
- Child Growth and Development
- Content Pedagogical Methods for Integrated Subject Areas
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Early Childhood
- Developing Mathematical Concepts in Early Childhood
- Early Childhood Ethics and Administrative Responsibilities
- Early Childhood Literacy
- Educational Psychology for Early Learners
- Foundations in Reading and Language Structure
- Foundations of Early Childhood
- Guiding Early Childhood Curriculum
- Health, Safety and Nutrition
- Instructional Tools for the Teaching of Reading
- Planning, Instruction and Assessment for Exceptional Learners in Early Childhood
- Reading and Writing in Early Childhood
- Social, Emotional and Behavioral Interventions
- Student Teaching in Early Childhood
- Teaching Reading Through Literature for Children
- Visual and Performing Arts in Early Childhood
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Indiana Wesleyan University
Maxwell Center, Suite 120
4201 South Washington Street
Marion IN 46953
Telephone: 705-677-2131
Email: registrar@indwes@edu
Individuals who complete accredited early education programs in Indiana are more likely to succeed in obtaining leadership positions in the field.
