Students completing the Early Childhood Education major are licensed for grades Preschool through Grade 3 (P-3) and eligible for the early childhood education endorsement. The undergraduate early childhood program integrates content coursework, general education requirements, and professional licensure coursework into a 120-credit bachelor's degree. Unique from the general elementary education degree, the early childhood education major includes specialty coursework focusing on Preschool – Third grade methods, behavior guidance, social-emotional development, family engagement, and assessment.

Throughout their time in the Teacher Education Program (TEP), students will engage in structured hours at the LAB (Learning And Belonging) School. The LAB School welcomes children of all abilities, along with their families, fostering a caring community aimed at promoting lifelong learning. Emphasizing developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education pedagogy, the LAB School provides ample opportunities for intentional observation, paving the way for teaching success. Hands-on experiences in assessment, curriculum planning, and lesson implementation, guided by experienced professionals, enable students to apply concepts learned in coursework. Daily self-reflection and feedback from early childhood clinical specialists play a pivotal role in refining teaching methods. In addition to clinical experiences in the LAB School, students will also spend structured hours in multiple early elementary (k-3) classrooms. Throughout the program, all coursework is aligned with opportunities for applied clinical experiences in LAB School and community elementary classrooms.

Candidates must fulfill all specific requirements listed with a grade of "C-" or better. These courses cannot be taken as credit/no credit, except when that is the only option. All UM general education requirements are encompassed within the early childhood education course requirements. To meet the 120 total credits required, a minimum of 10 elective credits are necessary.

Before admission to the Teacher Education Program (TEP), typically at the end of the sophomore year, Education majors receive guidance from their academic advisor in the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education. Upon admission to the Teacher Education Program, candidates commence the professional studies requirements and continue to collaborate with their academic advisor for scheduling purposes. Additionally, they are assigned a faculty member within the Department of Teaching and Learning to mentor them in both academic and professional pursuits.

TEP Application Link

Program Requirements

Early Childhood Education (P-3 Licensure) - Major Requirements Form

Clinical Hours and LAB

Contact Us

Early Childhood Education Advisor
April Holder
406-243-6170
april.holder@mso.umt.edu