Early Learning and Development B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts in Early Learning and Development (ELDV) is an undergraduate degree program that provides a strong emphasis on child development, both typical and atypical. The degree offers students experiences and an understanding of working with families, assessing infants and young children, opportunities to participate in many direct hours working with children from birth to age five, two studio courses that meet and work in early childhood settings, and a tailored practicum experience.  This degree is an excellent option for traditional undergraduate students who are interested in working with young children, but who are not interested in PA teacher certification. Additionally, transfer students who have infant/toddler coursework that does not typically apply to the PDE PreK to 4th grade certification, and international students might be interested in applying to the B.A. in ELDV program.

What are some courses and experiences that align with the B.A. in ELDV?

ELDV students take courses in early literacy and language, child development, developmentally appropriate practices and family and community relationships among other topics pertinent to early childhood.  Students are required to complete at least 1 practicum (they can complete more than one to get a sense of agencies where they may potentially work if they choose to do so).  The degree requires a number of electives that allow students the possibility of taking interdisciplinary courses, and also provides space for students to complete a 12-15 credit RMU certificate program or a minor in a chosen field of study.  Some elective course options include a tour of a NICU, observing in early intervention programs, experiences assessing infants, and visiting agencies that work with families of young children, both with and without disabilities. 

How might I use this degree?

There are many agencies who work with young children (Early Intervention programs and Home Visiting programs through local intermediate units, accredited preschool and child care programs, Head Start and Early Head Start, out of school programming and non-profit agencies) who require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree, with typically 24-30 early childhood credits, but do not require PA commonwealth teacher certification.  Teachers with a degree, who work for these agencies are paid significantly more than their colleagues without a 4-year degree, and in many cases salaries align with first year teaching salaries.

What are the admission requirements?

There are many agencies who work with young children (Early Intervention programs and Home Visiting programs through local intermediate units, accredited preschool and child care programs, Head Start and Early Head Start, out of school programming and non-profit agencies) who require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree, with typically 24-30 early childhood credits, but do not require PA commonwealth teacher certification.  Teachers with a degree, who work for these agencies are paid significantly more than their colleagues without a 4-year degree, and in many cases salaries align with first year teaching salaries.

Who teaches the courses in the ELDV degree program?

The full and part-time faculty who teach courses in this program have worked for Head Start, the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, the Chester County Intermediate Unit, Pittsburgh Public Schools, the Fred Rogers Institute, Healthy Child, the Child Development Unit in Pgh., child care, and family advocacy agencies in PA that provide ELDV students with much support for field experiences, and practicum placement options.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Dr. Susan W. Parker
Professor of Education
Email: parkers@rmu.edu
412-397-6245

Dr. Jen H. Tepe
Assistant Professor of Education
Email: tepe@rmu.edu
412-397-5418

Dr. Patty Kardambikis
Department Head, Education
Email: kardambikis@rmu.edu
412-397-6246