The early childhood major at Converse has earned national recognition from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and is accredited through the South Carolina Department of Education under the guidance of the Council for the Accreditation for Education Preparation (CAEP). Candidates participate in clinical experiences in which they observe and teach young children, develop a clear understanding of developmentally appropriate instructional methodology, and participate in curriculum and program planning for pre-kindergarten through third grades. Candidates complete coursework that provides them with a professional understanding and skill set about the child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Our fully-accredited program leads to certification in South Carolina.
Converse’s teacher preparation programs include a diversity of field and clinical experiences in public schools and our candidates complete their directed student teaching in high quality early childhood classrooms.
More Reasons to Choose Converse
Veteran Faculty: Our faculty have extensive experience in the pre-kindergarten through third grade classroom and are active as researchers, clinicians, and leaders in the field of education.
Quality Education: The Converse Educator Preparation Program is aligned with national standards required by the Council for Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP), approved by the South Carolina Department of Education. Converse is fully accredited by CAEP and the Early Childhood Program has received two national recognitions by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Standardized test scores for exit exams such as the PRAXIS II exceed the national and state averages and the rate of employment for our early childhood graduates is well above the norm.
Community Partnerships: Converse enjoys close proximity to many high-quality public schools in the Upstate of South Carolina and we have developed and maintained close professional partnerships with these public schools, as well as other early childhood settings.
Convenience: Upon admission, each candidate is assigned an adviser with whom she or he can plan a manageable pathway to the successful completion of the program. Flexibility is essential for students who manage busy work schedules and personal commitments. Most required courses on the Converse campus are conducted after 4 p.m., to accommodate student’s busy schedules.
Degree Prestige and Value: Since 1890, Converse has provided students with distinctive education rooted in the liberal arts. Our graduates are principled and productive citizens capable of creative thinking and problem solving and are well prepared for their chosen profession in Early Childhood Education.