About the Department

Mission

The Early Childhood program provides students the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive difference in the lives of children from prenatal to age eight and their families. We are dedicated to fostering a student-centered, active learning environment where student take theory into practice using a social justice lens that values inclusivity and diversity and advocates for ethnic/racial, gendered, and other underrepresented individuals in society.

Vision

Our program will be locally and nationally renowned for preparing leaders that make a difference as professionals in the field of early childhood. Our graduates will make a difference as professionals in the field of early childhood through their innovation, creativity, collaboration, and critical analytical skills that embrace diverse individuals and inclusivity in young children and their families.

Values

• Academic Excellence
• Experiential Learning 
• Student Success
• Inclusiveness through affirmation and celebration of diversity 
• Community Engagement and Collaboration 
• Social and Environmental Responsibility