Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

What you'll study

The curriculum develops skills to create safe, supportive, developmentally appropriate learning environments and to advocate for early childhood education across settings. Course topics listed in the program materials include early childhood advocacy, foundations in early childhood development, classroom action research tools, and integrating biblical principles into practice. The program-specific course codes cited include EDUT-514, EDUT-524, EDUT-532, EDUT-534, EDUT-544, ECED-555, EDUC-510, EDUC-520, EDUC-530, EDUC-600, and EDUC-630. Field-based assignments are embedded in each course so students apply concepts in real early childhood settings.

Entry requirements

The published program text does not state specific admissions criteria on the program page; prospective applicants are referred to the course catalog and to enrollment counselors for full details on prerequisites and catalog requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles in a wide range of early childhood contexts including preschools, child care centers, Head Start/Early Head Start, faith-based programs, early intervention, and nonprofit settings. The program prepares candidates for licensed K–3 teaching tracks as well as non-licensure careers such as program director, curriculum specialist, instructional coach, family support specialist, child life specialist, higher education instructor, and nonprofit leadership. Licensure completers typically proceed to state testing and teacher licensure; non-licensure graduates often advance into leadership, promotions, or doctoral study.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial aid options noted by the program include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement. Tuition is stated as 33 credit hours at $525 per credit hour on the program page, with applicable additional fees for resources, prerequisites, and electives; students are advised to consult the financial aid office or an enrollment counselor for cost sheets and personalized assistance.