The School of Early Childhood Studies offers a full- and part-time Direct Entry Program for graduates of the Ontario Colleges ECE programs. Qualified successful applicants enter the third year of the Bachelor of Arts (Early Childhood Studies) program. Students who enter the part-time program pursue courses in the evening, on Saturdays or online which are offered and administered by The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education in partnership with the School of Early Childhood Studies.
Bachelor of Arts (Early Childhood Studies) program offers a combination of academic studies and professional education including practicum experiences. Diverse learning opportunities prepare students to work with children from birth to age eight in a variety of settings for children and families that enhance their development, learning and healthy adaptation. The courses link theory with field practice that is undertaken in child care programs, public schools (early primary classrooms), special needs programs, family resource centres, children's hospitals, and other related settings.
The School's curriculum follows the University's tripartite curriculum model with core professional courses, professionally-related electives and liberal studies electives.
Field Education
Field education experiences constitute one quarter of a student's timetable each year. It provides excellent opportunities for students to apply theory learned in the classroom within authentic workplace settings which enhances students' opportunities to achieve the program learning outcomes. Extensive field education experiences permits students to develop their confidence, teaching and leadership skills, ethical practices and bridge the transition from student to professional in the field of early childhood education.
Professional Roles after Graduation
Graduates of the program are qualified for positions as early childhood educators in early childhood education and care programs, programs for children with special needs, early years learning centres and family resource programs. Some graduates are employed by community agencies working with children and families, provincial, municipal, or federal governments, community colleges, and various media for children. Graduates may apply to a faculty of education and for credit for Ministry of Education additional qualifications (AQ) courses. Graduates may also apply for admission to Master's degree programs in a variety of human development, special education, curriculum theory, speech therapy, family intervention and social work programs.
TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL INFORMATION
- Students wishing to transfer, under exceptional circumstances, from the part-time program to the full-time program must do so by January of the calendar year in which the transfer is requested. Requests and reasons for the transfer must be directed to Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment and the part-time direct entry program co-ordinator. Admission will be based upon the availability of space, and the completion of all third year courses.
- The School of Early Childhood Studies reserves the right to reassess a student’s eligibility to continue in the program after three consecutive semester stop-outs.
PROGRAM PLANNING
Program planning can be completed on an individual basis by the student and the part-time direct entry program co-ordinator.
Part-time Direct Entry Program Co-ordinator
The part-time Direct Entry Program Co-ordinator is available to discuss admission requirements, School policies and provide continuous program consultation for the part-time student.
To reach the part-time program co-ordinator please call the School of Early Childhood Studies at (416) 979-5000 ext. 7636.
Academic Standing Variation
An Academic Standing Variation exists for this program. See Academic Standing Variation for details.
FULL-TIME DIRECT ENTRY PROGRAM
The School of Early Childhood Studies also offers its curriculum on a Full-time basis.
Liberal Studies for Direct Entry
Students must take three three upper level liberal studies courses to graduate. If an upper level liberal studies course requires a prerequisite, students MUST apply for a transfer credit for that prerequisite. This will only serve as proof of prerequisite and will not apply towards the degree.
Minors
Students may pursue any Minor offered by Ryerson with exceptions. Please refer to the Minors Policy section of this calendar for further information on individual Minor requirements and restrictions.
The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education Certificates
Undergraduate students wishing to pursue a continuing education certificate program should be aware of possible restrictions. Please refer to the Curriculum Advising website at http://www.ryerson.ca/currentstudents/curriculumadvising/index.html
complete details.
