Support and nurture young learners
Mercer University’s Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Early Learning and Development prepares students to teach children from birth to kindergarten in various settings such as childcare centers, preschool and pre-K programs, kindergarten classrooms, or early childcare agencies. During the program, students complete studies in Child Development, Observation and Assessment, and Child Care Administration.
- Child Development focuses on knowledge of how typical and atypical infants, toddlers, and young children grow, develop, and learn.
- Observation and Assessment provides opportunities to know and use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment strategies.
- Child Care Administration serves to provide education in the theory and practice of management and human resource issues in childcare centers and other early learning and development settings.
The B.S.Ed. in Early Learning and Development provides two options: the certification track (Birth–Kindergarten) and the non-certification track (Birth–5 years). The certification track leads to initial teacher certification in Georgia, while the non-certification track does not lead to certification. All students are required to pass the Georgia Educator Ethics assessment, and both tracks lead to a bachelor’s degree. Students will also earn an embedded Special Education Preschool (Ages 3–5) endorsement.
Designed for busy and working adults
Earning a bachelor’s degree at Mercer University while managing other priorities is possible. With the program’s flexibility, many of our students are able to continue working while earning their degree.
Students pursue the B.S.Ed. in Early Learning and Development through a blended combination of online and in-person meetings at Mercer’s Atlanta, Douglas County, or Henry County location.
- The majority of each course is completed through both synchronous and asynchronous online instruction, and students only attend class in person twice per course.
- Most students register for two courses per eight-week session.
- Sessions begin five times a year in January, March, May, August, and October.
- Students are also required to participate in field experiences during the day.
Transfer your credits
We want you to get the credit you deserve toward completion of your B.S.Ed. at Mercer. That’s why we’ve made the process of transferring credits as seamless as possible.
Expand your knowledge
Upon completion of the program, students demonstrate proficiency in:
- Child care development and classroom strategy
- Building an integrated, technologically enhanced curriculum that meets the needs of children in child care centers
- Preparation and knowledge of various curriculum models and best practices in early learning and development programs
Learn more about our Early Learning and Development major
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule your personalized admissions counseling appointment or contact Nynoka Grant at 678.547.6493 or grant_n@mercer.edu for more information.
Although the gift of teaching dwells within me, my experience in Mercer's program helped to cultivate it. Mercer prepares educators that are passionate about their work to provide young children with an unforgettable learning experience while in their care.
Mercer has prepared me to be a teacher and leader by educating me on developmental milestones of children. I am so humbled by the impact that Mercer University has made on my life. I am profoundly grateful of how it has shaped me and helped me become a well-prepared and flourishing educator.
I have worked in daycare centers, and I was inspired to go back to school to further my education and to learn the importance of understanding the early learning process of child development. Mercer has prepared me to be the best teacher I can be.
Additional Steps
Keep planning ahead
Explore teacher candidacy
Effective July 1, 2022, students are no longer required to take the GACE Program Admission assessment.
Gain valuable field experience
Meet the Faculty
Mercer's Tift College of Education is supported by faculty and staff who devote themselves to preparing students to become transforming educators within their communities and throughout the world.
Professional licensure
All of Mercer’s programs that lead to licensure are designed to meet the educational requirements of regulatory authorities in the State of Georgia. If you intend to seek licensure or certification outside of Georgia, please review Mercer’s professional licensure disclosure for more information.