Prepare for initial teacher certification and gain expertise in interdisciplinary studies with CU’s online Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Program Details
Next Start Date: 1/15/2025
Course Length: 16 Weeks
Estimated Length: 4 Years
B.S. in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Overview
Campbellsville University’s online bachelor’s in interdisciplinary early childhood education will prepare you to gain the initial teacher certification to educate young children in the state of Kentucky. Graduates possess a global perspective in order to support diverse groups of young learners in inclusive early childhood classrooms.
Faculty with experience in the field will help you build competency in child development, pedagogy and interdisciplinary studies to deliver excellence in education. Coursework for this bachelor’s program is 100 percent online, with 200 hours of fieldwork required prior to student teaching to gain real-world applied learning experience. Students fulfill initial certification requirements and build skills in classroom management, curriculum design and instruction by completing their student teaching experience. Additionally, students can teach overseas to broaden their outlook and expand future professional opportunities.
Campbellsville University’s education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the Education Professional Standards Board of Kentucky (EPSB) for teacher education and certification.
By pursuing your bachelor’s online from CU’s fully accredited education program, you will benefit from a flexible schedule, small class sizes and expert faculty committed to your success. Experience the advantages of CU’s faith-based education and servant leadership model with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary early childhood education.
Optional Montessori Area of Specialty
Students may choose to add the Montessori Area of Specialty to their Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Studies program. Understanding the Montessori Model further prepares future educators to make a difference in the lives of exceptional children through methods in curriculum, instruction and assessment. Students will learn to incorporate the Montessori method in their approach to learning environments, collaboration and professionalism while earning their initial teacher certification.
Director’s Credential Available
Campbellsville University helps students advance their careers by offering the Director’s Credential, which can be earned in conjunction with a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary early childhood education.
Dual Licensure Option Available
Complete the B.S. in Elementary Education and the B.S. in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education in a dual licensure program. This dual program only adds one semester and allows you to graduate with two career-focused credentials while saving time and money.
“I couldn’t of done it if I had to go back to campus. Being able to get it online is the only way I would’ve been able to get my degree.”
– David Harris
Course Map
Campbellsville University’s online bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary early childhood education requires 120 credit hours. This includes 42 general education course credits and 78-course credits within the degree program. Additional course credits are required to complete the Montessori Area of Specialty, Director’s Credential or dual certification.
The General Education component of undergraduate degrees provides the student with a basic understanding of a broad range of subjects. This supports the liberal arts emphasis of the University’s academic mission.
- ED 199: Entry to Teacher Preparation
- ECE 111: Educational Foundations of Early Education (10 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 130: Child Development I (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 140: Guidance of Young Children (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 230: Child Development II (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ED 299: Admission to Educator Preparation Program (CAP 2)
- IECE 301: The Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Profession
- ED 399: Admission to Student Teaching
- ED 499: Education Preparation Program Exit (CAP 4)
All courses are 3 credit hours with the exception of ED 199, ED 299, ED 399, and ED 499. These are non-credit courses.
- ECE 216: Introduction to Special Education in ECE (20 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 270: Observation & Assessment (20 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 280: Approaches to Curriculum & Methods (10 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 360: Cultural & Linguistic Diversity in ECE (10 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 381: Language & Literacy Methodology(6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 382: Arts & Humanities Methodology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 383: Math/Science/Social Studies Methodology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 384: Interactive & Assistive Technology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 385: Infant & Toddler Methodology (8 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 416: Special Education Procedures/Strategies in IECE
- IECE 420: Teaching Kindergarten
- IECE 440: Positive Behavior Supports
- IECE 460: Working with Families in EI
- IECE 470: Advanced Assessment in IECE
- IECE 480: Advanced Curriculum & Methods in IECE
Choose one of the following:
- IECE 400: Current Issues in ECE
- IECE 410: Special Investigations in ECE
- ED 450: Student Teaching
Students will receive guidance from faculty and advisors in choosing elective courses that further their professional goals.
- ED 199: Entry to Teacher Preparation
- ECE 111: Educational Foundations of Early Education (10 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 130: Child Development I (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 140: Guidance of Young Children (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 230: Child Development II (6 hours of fieldwork)
- ED 299: Admission to Educator Preparation Program (CAP 2)
- IECE 301: The IECE Profession
- ED 399: Admission to Student Teaching
- ED 499: Education Preparation Program Exit (CAP 4)
All courses are 3 credit hours with the exception of ED 199, ED 299, ED 399, and ED 499. These are non-credit courses.
- ECE 216: Intro to Special Ed in ECE (20 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 270: Observation & Assessment (20 hours of fieldwork)
- ECE 280: Approaches to Curriculum & Methods (10 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 360: Cultural & Linguistic Diversity (10 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 381: Language & Literacy Methodology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 382: Arts & Humanities Methodology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 383: Math/Science/Social Studies Methodology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 384: Interactive & Assistive Technology (6 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 385: Infant & Toddler Methodology (8 hours of fieldwork)
- IECE 416: Special Education Procedures/Strategy in IECE
- IECE 420: Teaching Kindergarten
- IECE 440: Positive Behavior Supports
- IECE 460: Working with Families in EI
- IECE 470: Adv. Assessment in IECE
- IECE 480: Advanced Curriculum & Methods in IECE
- IECE 400: Current Issues in Early Childhood Education Profession
Students will receive guidance from faculty and advisors in choosing elective courses that further their professional goals.
- ED 450: Student Teaching
- IECE 325: Foundations in Montessori Education
- ECE 326: Practical Life/Culture Methodology
- IECE 327: Sensorial Methodology
- IECE 328: Language/Literacy Methodology
- IECE 329: Math Methodology
- IECE 450: Classroom Leadership-Montessori
- IECE 498: Montessori Practicum/Seminars I
- IECE 499: Montessori Practicum /Seminars II*
*If ED 450 placement is in a public school Montessori classroom, IEC 499 is waived as a course requirement.
Admissions Requirements
In order to apply to Campbellsville University’s accredited online bachelor’s in interdisciplinary early childhood education program, prospective students must submit or complete the following:
- Complete the online application.
- Official college transcript and a complete record of all courses attempted from each college or university previously or currently attended.
- If transferring less than 24 credit hours, submit an official high school transcript.
Costs & Financial Aid
The online bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary early childhood education costs $424 per credit hour. In order to help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
Students can transfer a maximum of 72 credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university.
Campbellsville University is a Military Friendly® School and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
Upon completion of your Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Studies, you’ll be eligible for a number of careers in this field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for preschool teachers was $30,210 in 2021. Meanwhile, the median annual salary for directors of daycare was $47,310 and that for kindergarten teachers was $61,350.
- Preschool teacher
- Kindergarten teacher
- Montessori teacher (only graduates who add Montessori Area of Specialty)
- Developmental interventionist
- Director of daycare
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the wellrounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Early childhood education involves early care, early education and family support for children aged birth through six years. Campbellsville University offers several degrees in early childhood education. Explore our education programs to learn more.
- Early childhood education is a highly rewarding field. By creating safe, quality learning environments for young children, early childhood educators are uniquely positioned to have a positive impact on the future. This field also offers steady job growth and opportunities for employment, with approximately 56,300 openings for preschool teachers expected each year through 2032 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Campbellsville University offers several degrees in early childhood education. Explore our education programs to learn more.
- Yes, you can. CU honors your educational journey with a generous transfer credit policy that empowers you to make the most of your earned credits. Upon your admission to Campbellsville University, we'll complete a transfer credit evaluation to find out how many of your credits will apply toward your degree. For more information, visit our transfer students page.