Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

What you'll study

Coursework blends child development theory and applied instructional practice to prepare graduates to design research-based early learning programs and assess learner performance. Core topic areas listed by the program include:

• Child growth and development across cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual domains
• Developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) and classroom management
• Literacy and reading instruction (including faculty expertise in the Science of Reading and dyslexia intervention)
• STEM concepts for early learners
• Health, safety, and nutrition in early childhood settings
• Family and community engagement and dynamics
• Observation, documentation, and assessment strategies

Program-specific course codes provided include ECED-101, ECED-105, ECED-125, ECED-130, ECED-135, ECED-301, ECED-302, ECED-303, ECED-304, ECED-305, ECED-322, ECED-325, ECED-331, ECED-332, ECED-401, ECED-405, ECED-411, ECED-422, ECED-430A, and ECED-430B. For full course descriptions and prerequisites, the program directs students to the IWU course catalog.

Entry requirements

The source page does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact IWU admissions or consult the course catalog for program prerequisites and enrollment steps.

Career prospects

This non-licensure pathway prepares graduates for roles that do not require state teacher licensure. Typical job outcomes identified by the program include:

• Childcare worker
• Preschool teacher assistant
• Daycare assistant
• Home-based service provider
• Family support specialist
• Staff positions in early childhood programs, community organizations, healthcare settings, nonprofits

The curriculum also supports leadership roles in childcare such as center director or program coordinator and prepares students for professional development credentials like the Child Development Associate (CDA).

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The program lists a tuition rate of $405 per credit hour for a 54-credit-hour program and notes that a student’s tuition rate is locked in as long as they remain continuously enrolled in the same program. Financial aid options named include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement; additional fees may apply for resources, prerequisites, or electives. The program recommends contacting IWU’s Financial Aid Office or an enrollment counselor for cost sheets and faster responses.