Program Overview
West Chester University’s Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Early Grades Preparation is highly regarded for preparing qualified candidates for professional education certification in grades prekindergarten to grade four. We provide more than 900 candidates with engaging coursework, a diverse set of field experiences, and opportunities to be involved in school-based service activities and education organizations on campus. Field placements begin in the first semester and continue through all four years of studies, in a variety of settings that include both public schools and community-based settings for children and their families. Get Involved: Student PSEA (nationally recognized chapter; more than 240 members on campus) (linkhttps://spseaofwcupa.wixsite.com/mysite) Kappa Delta Pi (International Education Honor Society) Alpha Upsilon Alpha (the Literacy Honor Society)
Program Highlights
The Early Grades Preparation program participates in a Professional Development School (PDS) relationship with the West Chester Area School District and a “Year-Long Option” with partner districts including Kennett Consolidated School District, West Chester Area School District, the School District of Philadelphia, Downingtown Area School District, Great Valley School District, Rose Tree Media School District, Octorara School District, and Unionville-Chadds Ford School District. Both the PDS and the year-long options provide candidates with the opportunity to spend more time in the same classroom than the traditional fifteen weeks of student teaching. Candidates involved in either option co-plan and co-teach with their mentor teacher, and are fully involved in the school community working with students, school professionals, and members of the community. West Chester University also offers many study abroad options, including some programs specifically focused on education.
What can I do with this degree?
The Early Grades Preparation program prepares teacher candidates to become classroom teachers in PreK to Grade 4. Upon successful completion of the program, and successful completion of Pennsylvania’s Department of Education requirements, candidates apply for Pennsylvania certification, grades PreK to 4, the required credential to teach in Pennsylvania. This credential can be used to apply for similar teaching credentials in other states, pending any additional or special requirements.