Program Description

Option offered through Liberal Arts

The Associate of Arts (AA) in Liberal Arts with an option in Early Childhood Elementary Education will offer students the first two years of coursework for acceptance into a four-year Teacher Preparation Program. The program will provide a specialized degree focusing on teaching in the elementary school (K-3). Emphasis will be placed on preparing students for passing the CORE Praxis test of Reading, Writing and Mathematics for acceptance into a College of Education. Students in this option take courses in education theory and practice, and complete fieldwork observations coupled with the general studies required for successful transfer.

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate a strong foundational knowledge in educational theory and practice as evidenced by discussing the key educational models, classic research studies, and recent trends in education.
• Apply foundational knowledge of education to teaching and learning activities and classroom dynamics and recognize educational concepts and theories as they emerge in classroom settings.
• Create written documents such as lesson plans and individual student summaries that are clear, well-organized, and grammatically accurate.
• Research and examine educational policies and the consequences of different policy options and communicate findings effectively in written, verbal, and electronic formats.
• Evaluate the various issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of Early Childhood Education

After UCNJ

Graduates of this program will transfer to a four-year college or university for a baccalaureate degree to work with students in early childhood education.

Recommended Sequence

Milestone Courses