Overview
The Bachelor of Education with a concentration in Early Childhood Education program (non-licensure) focuses on Early Childhood Education (birth through age eight) from a theoretical orientation and places the field within broader social, historical, political, and cultural contexts. Coursework in education and general education provide a foundation for students to critically examine early education and childcare.
Early Childhood Education students will examine how parents and other family members work collaboratively with teachers to build a learning and home environment that stimulates curiosity through informal educational opportunities. The principles of quality education, multiculturalism, critical thinking, and reflective teaching are infused in all major coursework. The courses are designed to build a strong sense of social justice while also educating all students from diverse backgrounds and inspiring teachers as agents of change. Courses are taught through distance learning instruction, and in partnership with associate’s degree programs in Early Childhood Education at Hawaiʻi Community College, Honolulu Community College, Kauaʻi Community College, and UH Maui College. At minimum, students who wish to enter UH West Oʻahu ‘s Bachelor of Education degree program with a concentration in Early Childhood Education (non-licensure) must be eligible for transfer admission by the time of application and should complete the 32 credits of ECED Core and the prerequisite coursework in Math and English required for the BEd program prior to transfer. Conferral of a Bachelor of Education degree with a concentration in Early Childhood Education does not result in professional licensure.