Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
Offered on USF’s Tampa Campus
USF’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education is a State-approved teacher preparation program leading to Florida PreK–3 certification with ESOL and Reading endorsements. This full-time, face-to-face cohort program blends coursework with extensive hands-on internships, preparing future teachers to create meaningful, developmentally appropriate learning experiences for young children. Students learn in a supportive community of peers and faculty dedicated to shaping innovative early childhood educators.
What you will learn
Students gain a strong foundation in early childhood development, curriculum design, and inquiry-based teaching practices. You’ll learn to create engaging, inclusive, and play-based learning environments, integrate creativity and reflection into instruction, and apply research-based strategies that support literacy, language development, and early academic skills. Throughout the program, teacher candidates connect theory to practice through guided fieldwork and observation.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers such as:
- PreK–3 classroom teacher (public or private schools)
- Preschool or early learning center director
- Early childhood curriculum specialist
- Child development or family engagement specialist
- Positions in early childhood organizations, childcare centers, or community programs
What to expect
This 60-credit hour cohort program includes four progressive internship experiences in PreK–3 classrooms, each supported by university supervisors and mentor teachers. Students engage in clinical, inquiry-based learning with strong school partnerships and gain additional experience at USF’s on-campus Preschool for Creative Learning (PCL), a nationally recognized lab school. Through immersive fieldwork and a tight-knit learning community, candidates graduate fully prepared to lead developmentally appropriate, creative, and inquiry-driven early childhood classrooms.
I specifically chose Early Childhood Education because I love seeing how the students grow in the classroom and how much of an impact teaching them can have on their development! I love being able to see their faces light up when they are engaged and enjoying the learning they are doing in the classroom!
Brianna Davis
Early Childhood Education Major
Contact us
Have questions about the B.A. in Early Childhood Education program? Our faculty and admissions team are here to help you explore program requirements, application details, and how our training aligns with your professional goals. Reach out to connect with us and take the next step toward advancing your career in education.