Our 100% Online option in Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society prepares educators to work with diverse groups of young children, families, and communities. Our graduates will:
UNDERSTAND YOUNG CHILDREN’S CHARACTERISTICS AND NEEDS
Learn to recognize the dynamics that influence children’s development while creating partnerships with families and community professionals
PROMOTE POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING
Apply child observation, documentation, and other forms of assessment to positively influence the development of each child
CREATE AND EVALUATE CHILDREN’S LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
Design, implement, and assess environments that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and intellectually challenging for each child
Build your skills in a practical, hands-on way, in a flexible 100% online program that fits your goals.
- Understand and apply research and theory on child development and learning
- Complete three distinct practicum experiences that build new skills in early childhood classrooms and centers in your own community
- Learn along with other working professionals with a very applied focus
- 100% online – no campus visits required
- Rolling admission and year-round course offerings meet your schedule
- The ECEMS program meets standards endorsed by the National Association of the Education of Young Children
General Education Requirements
Degree Requirements and Sample Program
To apply for this online degree, visit Missouri Online
Graduates from ECEMS are prepared to work in a variety of early childhood education roles and settings. Early childhood education is an essential part of everyday life.
- Infant/toddler specialists
- Early childhood education centers
- Family child care educators
- Head Start and Pre-K programs
- Childcare resource and referral agencies
- Directing early childhood programs
- Before and after-school care programs
For more career information, visit the National Association for the Education of Young Children
“Field experience was incorporated into the core of this degree. I went to three different sites and learned how to be a teacher from different sources. The best part was seeing how a classroom works. Now, I am ready to apply that knowledge.””
JENNIFER BRISTOW | WICHITA, KS
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (BS) ‘19
“The faculty challenge me in my work and inspire me to do more and work harder for the children I serve. The faculty also help me to approach difficult situations with confidence and become a more confident individual and childcare provider.”
EMILY BUSTER | COLUMBIA, MO
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (BS) STUDENT
Note: Students who meet University of Missouri admission requirements may declare a major in Human Development and Family Science and take ECEMS Professional Development and Pre-Practicum One courses. Admission to Pre-Practicum Two courses is contingent upon completion of 30 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and successful completion of a course in lifespan human development (HDFS 2400 or equivalent), all Pre-Practicum One courses, and Practicum I.
A UNIQUE DISTANCE EDUCATION
Mizzou participates in the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (IDEA). When you enroll in our HDFS online degree programs, you enroll and pay tuition at Mizzou; your courses are fully online and taught by expert faculty at each of our partner institutions. With us, you’ll learn with students from around the globe. Learn more at gpidea.org.
HDFS ECEMS Handbook (pdf)
Learn more about the Great Plains IDEA programs.
Great Plains IDEA website (access student handbook, Student Success Center portal, course availability matrix, course information and descriptions)
HDFS ECEMS Advisor
Michelle Mathews
Phone: (573) 882-3999
E-mail: mathewsm@missouri.edu