New Degree Track in Early Childhood Education
Shape the Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Early Childhood Education (PreK–K)
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program at The W prepares you to teach and advocate for children from birth through age 8. With a focus on earning your Mississippi PreK–Kindergarten teaching license, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training to support young learners and their families while building a strong foundation for a career in early education.
The W is a low-cost leader in teacher preparation—your degree doesn’t have to cost a fortune to change lives. With affordable tuition, small classes, and faculty who know your name, you’ll get the personal support you need to succeed.
Courses are offered online or in person, with classroom-based practical experiences arranged in your own community. Our students are located across the region—and even around the world—and we work with schools where you live to create meaningful residency and internship opportunities. We know that grassroots, homegrown teachers are often the most effective, and our goal is to help you stay and serve in the places you are needed most.
Why Choose This Program?
- Specialized preparation in child development and early learning.
- Step-sequenced Blocks with integrated coursework and classroom residencies.
- Strong focus on literacy, numeracy, and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Access to lab school and community-based practicum experiences.
- Faculty mentorship and small class sizes for individualized support.
- Licensure recommendation for PreK–K teaching in Mississippi.
Early Childhood Courses
- ED 204 Principles of Early Childhood Learning
- ED 313 Supporting Infants & Toddlers
- ED 315 Policy & Advocacy in Early Education
- ED 318 Strengthening Family & Community Connections
- ED 413 Methods & Materials in STEM for Early Childhood
- ED 415 Methods/Materials in Creative Arts for Young Children
- ED 417 Social-Emotional Behaviors in Early Childhood
- ED 419 Leading Early Education Programs
- ED 421 Assessment Methods in Early Childhood
- ED 404 Teacher Internship: Early Childhood
Career Outcomes
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career pathways, including:
- Classroom Teaching: Licensed PreK–K teacher in public schools with full state benefits and retirement. A PreK–K license offers career steadiness, aligning early childhood educators with other licensed teachers while meeting the growing state and national demand for expanded PreK programs.
- Early Learning Specialist: Positions in Head Start, childcare centers, and community-based programs.
- Policy & Advocacy: Roles in nonprofit organizations, state agencies, and advocacy groups shaping early childhood policy and practice.
- Program Leadership: Coordinators or directors in early learning programs, community partnerships, or resource centers.
- Further Study: Continue on to graduate school with a Master’s in Multiple Exceptionalities for more endorsements and skills to help in early intervention and with children with all needs.
The W Difference
Our Block-and-Residency model ensures students don’t just learn about teaching—they practice it continuously. By the time they enter their internship semester, candidates have already built confidence and skill in real classrooms, making them classroom-ready on day one.
Our ECE program is deeply connected to the community. Students benefit from partnerships with local schools, childcare centers, and family resource programs, ensuring preparation that goes beyond the classroom. This focus opens doors not only to teaching but also to leadership and advocacy roles that improve outcomes for children and families across Mississippi and beyond.
Contact Us
Have questions about admissions, pathways, licensure, or reciprocity options? Connect with our program navigator, Christi Dillon, at cmdillon@muw.edu or 662-329-7190 for step-by-step guidance.
After completing all coursework and passing the required Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) exams, graduates will be recommended for a Mississippi teaching license or endorsements. Once licensed in Mississippi, teachers may apply for licensure in other states through reciprocity agreements.
