Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme blends foundations in child development with practical coursework focused on infants, toddlers and children through Grade 2. Core topics include developmental psychology, emergent literacy and language development, mathematics and science for young learners, play-based learning, classroom curriculum design, observation and assessment techniques, inclusive practices for diverse learners, and family and community partnerships.

• Child Development and Learning: typical and atypical development, attachment, temperament and social–emotional growth.
• Curriculum and Instruction: designing age-appropriate, developmentally informed curricula for birth through Grade 2, with emphasis on play and exploration.
• Language and Literacy: emergent literacy, phonological awareness, oral language development and strategies for fostering early reading and writing.
• Mathematics and Science for Young Children: inquiry-based approaches to early numeracy and foundational science concepts.
• Assessment and Observation: formative and authentic assessment, developmental screening and using observations to plan instruction.
• Special and Inclusive Education: supporting children with diverse learning needs, individualised planning and collaboration with specialists.
• Professional Practice: child safeguarding, classroom management, partnership with families, ethics and professional responsibilities.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: multiple supervised field placements in early childhood settings culminating in a full-term student teaching placement.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record. Admissions may consider grades, a personal statement outlining interest in early childhood education, and references. Some programmes request an interview or an initial observational experience in an early childhood setting.

• Proof of secondary school completion or equivalent.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study.
• Criminal background checks and child-protection clearances are required before placement in practicum settings; students must meet health and immunisation requirements for working with children.
• Completion of any required prerequisite coursework in English and mathematics, where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licenced classroom roles and a range of early years posts. Typical career destinations include lead teacher positions in preschool, kindergarten and early primary classrooms, early intervention and developmental support roles, Head Start and community early childhood programmes, and family support or curriculum coordinator roles. Graduates may also work as educational consultants, programme directors in early childhood centres, or pursue postgraduate qualifications in special education, educational leadership or child development to expand career options.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College combines a practice-focused curriculum with sustained field experience in local early childhood settings, allowing students to apply theory in real classrooms under experienced supervision. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty with active experience in early childhood education, and structured support for certification and preparation for licensure requirements. Strong partnerships with community preschools, schools and family services provide diverse placement opportunities and networking that help graduates move quickly into the early years workforce.