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Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education for Diverse Learners, Concentration in Early Childhood Special Education and Early/Primary Education PK–3

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"My experience in George Mason's teacher program was great. The professors were all extremely supportive and passionate about what they were teaching. Many of the professors came from a practical background, which, in my opinion, gave the curriculum some real world punch. The courses and assignments were well structured and challenging, but the professors were always there to help and clear up any confusion. It was clear that the professors wanted you to succeed not only in your courses but also succeed as a teacher once you were out teaching in the real world. The passion they have for education is contagious." - Erica Ramirez Estrada, '21

The Early Childhood Education Special Education and Early/Primary Education PreKindergarten-Third Grade (PK-3) Dual Concentration prepares professionals to work in either Early Childhood Special Education (Birth-Age 5), Preschool/PreKindergarten classrooms with children who access Special and General Education curriculum, or PreK-3rd Grade settings.

This bachelor’s degree provides students with the opportunity to develop a strong cross-disciplinary foundation as well as specialized knowledge to work with young children from a diversity of abilities and cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The courses in the major ensure that students engage in a well-rounded, cohesive program of study that prepares them to be high-quality early childhood educators.

Students who complete this dual licensure concentration are eligible to apply for licensure in both Early/Primary Education PreK–3 and Early Childhood Special Education (birth through age five) upon graduation. Early childhood educators help students learn and develop in ways that will serve them for the rest of their lives.

Please note that there are additional requirements when pursuing teacher licensure. See below for more information about the required licensure exams and content area coursework.

Dual Licensure Requirements

In addition to completing program courses, students must complete state-mandated licensure exams and content area coursework prior to their internship application deadline. The most up-to-date information regarding exams can be found on the TeacherTrack@Mason website. Students need to initiate a content area review and meet with an endorsement advisor to discuss the remaining requirements. Instructions on the content area review process can be found here.

Field Experience

Some courses require field observation within a Northern Virginia regional school. If a course has a field experience requirement it will be noted in PatriotWeb. Our field experience office coordinates with our local schools to assign placements.

Internship

Early Childhood Education for Diverse Learners students engage in a semester-long internship experience off campus. This internship is a capstone experience. It is a full-time obligation in the last semester of the program. The program assists with the placement process. Internships will be either working directly with or on behalf of young children and their families.

Students must submit an internship application in the semester prior to internship. Please consult with the Early Childhood Education advisor and review the information on this page for more details.

Careers in Early Education

Students completing this dual licensure program may pursue careers in the following areas:

  • Licensed Prekindergarten Teacher
  • Licensed Kindergarten Teacher
  • Licensed 1st-3rd Grade Teacher
  • Licensed Early Childhood Special Education (birth-age 5) teacher
  • Early interventionist

Additional Opportunities

Licensure Disclosure

George Mason University will verify completion of the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) state-approved preparation program at the graduate or undergraduate level. Such verification does not guarantee the issuance of a Virginia Collegiate Professional, Postgraduate Professional, or Pupil Personnel license from the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is solely the student's responsibility to comply with all requirements for licensure by the Commonwealth. Under Virginia law, a social security number is required for licensure.

This program has been identified by George Mason University as one that may lead to a career requiring professional licensure/certification. Federal regulations require George Mason to disclose information as to whether this program meets/does not meet the educational requirements for licensure/certification in your state, or whether such a determination has not been made. Please consult our Licensure Disclosure Tool for the disclosure statement specific to your desired state/program combination.