Course Overview!

This online Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Master Teacher program from Ball State University is designed for elementary school and early childhood educators seeking to become mentor-teachers. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced skills and strategies for mentoring early childhood professionals. Students will learn to apply research-based skills in child development, implement effective teaching strategies for positive outcomes for young children and families, understand the importance of cultural responsiveness, and apply diverse perspectives for professional growth and social change. This 15-credit certificate program aligns with Indiana's Professional Development Network's Core Knowledge and Competency document and can serve as the first five courses toward a Master's in Elementary Education with an early childhood concentration. A scholarship is available covering tuition for admitted students meeting specific criteria, such as working or planning to work in the early childhood education field, preferably from a rural Indiana county.

Course Structure

The program consists of five courses totaling 15 credit hours. These courses are: ECYF 640: Early Childhood Education (3 credits); EDEL 644: Education in a Diverse Society (3 credits); ECYF 651: Educational Programs for Young Children (3 credits); ECYF 653: Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood (3 credits); and ECYF 672: Mentoring Early Childhood Professionals (3 credits). The program is taught by faculty from Ball State Teachers College, a renowned college of education. Completion of this certificate does not lead to initial licensure. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in child development, effective teaching strategies, cultural responsiveness, and professional growth and social change within the field of early childhood education.