Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme integrates foundational psychology with specialised early childhood education coursework to prepare graduates to support learning and development from birth through Grade 2. You will study typical and atypical child development, behavioural and cognitive psychology, and evidence-based instructional strategies for infants, toddlers and young children.

• Foundations of Child Development and Psychology — theories of cognitive, social and emotional development, attachment, and temperament.
• Infant and Toddler Care and Curriculum — developmentally appropriate practices, routines, play-based learning and outdoor experiences for the youngest learners.
• Early Literacy and Language Development — emergent literacy, phonological awareness, oral language and strategies to support multilingual learners.
• Early Mathematics and Science — inquiry-based approaches to early numeracy and scientific thinking for young children.
• Assessment, Observation and Measurement — informal and formal assessment techniques, observational methods and documentation to inform instruction.
• Inclusive Practices and Special Needs — supporting children with diverse learning needs, collaboration with families and specialists, and adaptation of curriculum.
• Classroom Management and Social-Emotional Learning — positive guidance, behaviour supports and fostering resilience and self-regulation.
• Research Methods in Psychology and Education — basic research design, data interpretation and applications to classroom practice.
• Practicum and Student Teaching — progressive supervised field experiences in early childhood centres and primary classrooms, culminating in a full-term student teaching placement and a professional capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school credential or its equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic records, a personal statement showing commitment to working with young children, and references. Recommended preparation includes coursework or experience in English, mathematics and introductory psychology.

• High school diploma or recognised equivalent.
• Minimum academic standing as defined by the College; applicants with non-traditional backgrounds or prior college study are considered on an individual basis.
• Some programmes require a background check and health documentation (for placement in early childhood settings), as well as clearance for working with children.
• Placement in practicum or student teaching may require verified immunisation records and demonstration of basic competencies prior to field experience.
• Transfer applicants should provide transcripts from previous institutions; relevant early childhood or psychology credits may be eligible for transfer.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in early childhood education and related fields. Many go on to classroom teaching positions in preschools, nursery schools, Head Start programmes and early primary grades where Birth–Grade 2 certification applies. Others pursue roles that support young children and families outside the classroom.

• Early childhood teacher (birth–Grade 2) in public or private schools and early learning centres.
• Lead teacher or programme coordinator in childcare and preschool settings.
• Early intervention specialist or family support worker (with additional credentials as required).
• Instructional coach, curriculum developer or literacy specialist focused on early years.
• Opportunities in community agencies, non-profits and children’s services that serve infants, toddlers and families.
• Further study options include graduate work in school psychology, special education, early childhood leadership or educational research.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a programme that blends psychology and early childhood pedagogy with substantial hands-on experience in real classrooms. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty who have classroom and research experience in early years education, and established partnerships with local schools and early learning centres for practicum placements.

• Practical field experience: progressive practicum placements and a supervised student teaching term prepare graduates for professional practice.
• Integrated curriculum: coursework links psychological theory to instructional practice and assessment for young children.
• Support for certification: advising and preparation for state or regional teaching certification processes where applicable.
• Career services and professional networks: the College provides career advising, placement support and connections with local education employers.
• Flexible pathways: options to combine study with minors or electives in areas such as special education, bilingual education or psychology to broaden career opportunities.