Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development with an Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (California)
4-week Courses
Start sooner and finish faster with our innovative course design.
Year-Round Enrollment
Our admissions team reviews applications year-round.
230K+ Alumni Worldwide
Become a member of NU’s global community.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development with a California Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential provides a broad, rigorous education that prepares candidates for a career as a teacher at early elementary grades. Candidates are introduced to essential knowledge, strategies, techniques, and connections across the disciplines as applied to young children. The focus is on an enriched and thought-provoking curriculum incorporating content across subject areas, specific educational methodology courses, and preparation for professional work as multiple subject teachers in elementary grades. All candidates must demonstrate subject-matter competency through a state-approved examination (CSET), appropriate degree, or major in matching authorization area.
The credential is designed for teacher candidates who will be dedicated to inspiring K6 learners by ensuring for them: social-emotional thriving, meaningful academic achievement, and an equitable and inclusive learning community.
Background Check
Agencies/schools collaborating with the Sanford College of Education to provide field experience, often require a background check and TB clearance prior to acceptance of a student into their facility. Candidates who do not have a Certificate of Clearance will not be able to attend the field experience component of the course and, therefore, will be unable to complete their program of study. Any fee or cost associated with background checks and TB testing is the responsibility of the student.
Note: ALL ECE prefix courses require a field experience in an approved setting. An approved setting is working with children from Birth to Age 5 in general education, inclusive setting. Recommended sites are Early Head Start, Head Start, CA State Preschools, and NAEYC-accredited sites.
Students may be required to provide proof of current DTAP, MMR, and Flu vaccinations in order to complete their fieldwork per SB792. Any fee or cost associated with this requirement is the responsibility of the student.
Please Note: To avoid interruption to program progress and/or financial aid arrangements, students need to satisfy/pass the Basic Skills Requirement (e.g., CBEST) and Subject Matter Competency Requirements (e.g., CSET) PRIOR to starting the multiple credential area method courses.
For additional information on credential requirements, please see the Sanford College of Education’s Credential Information section of the catalog.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Course Details
Preparation for Major
- 4 courses; 18 quarter units
Sub Header Text Here
Overview of major and theoretical frameworks and perspectives. Focus on gender and cultural impact on biological, physical, cognitive, social, moral, emotional and behavioral aspects of development for effective educational practices.
Sub Header Text Here
Focus on the influence of family, school and community on development and education of the young child. Special emphasis on the role of nutrition, positive home and school environments and community resources.
Sub Header Text Here
Focus on cultural pluralism and its impact on development and education in regards to teaching and learning strategies. Emphasis on self-examination, reflection, and integration of current processes involved in interactions and relationships in society.
Sub Header Text Here
Focus on the eight components for coordinated health for young children in out-of-home care. Health, physical education, health and nutrition services, health promotion for the staff, counseling and psychological services, a safe healthy environment, and family involvement, and community resources and personnel will be addressed. Attention will be directed towards children with special needs and challenging behaviors as well as legal and ethical issues in the field of early childhood.
Requirements for the Major
- 9 courses; 40.5 quarter units
Early Childhood Education Core Requirements
Sub Header Text Here
Focus on local, state and federal statutes and regulations in early education settings. Emphasis on ethical codes of conduct, including analysis of legal and ethical dilemmas and practice.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 201; ECE 210; HED 220 and ECE 211
Inquiry into the nature and tasks of early cognition including social, cultural and biological foundations. Attention paid to current research implications for learning theory, individual differences and classroom instruction.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on acquisition and developmental aspects of language related to emergent literacy skills. Emphasis on current research regarding language experiences that contributes to literacy acquisitions, including assessment and instruction.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on essential elements of curriculum design including writing of goals, learning outcomes, developmentally appropriate activities, assessment measures and integration of the arts. Alignment with national and state standards stressed.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on identification, design and delivery of developmentally age appropriate experiences that encourage active math, science and technology inquiry. Inquiry related to emerging notions of mathematical and scientific processes is basis for activities along with the inclusion of technology as a strategy.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on play as the primary learning modality for young children. Theoretical basis for play as a means of teaching, role in learning and as a means of assessment emphasized.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on acquiring and enhancing skills in the selection, administration, scoring, interpretation, reporting of screening assessment instruments. Emphasis on designing and implementing curricula based on assessment results.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Exploration of variations in child development and identification of specific disabilities in young children. Inclusive early childhood programs, specific strategies for adaptation and accommodation of the core curriculum to meet the social, emotional, and academic needs of children who are at-risk or have special needs are examined.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ECE 330
Focus on observation, identification, description, and assessment of challenging behaviors. Designing and implementing effective teaching and learning strategies to successfully guide these behaviors within a social and cultural context.
Undergraduate Credential Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
Degree Requirements: To receive the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential students must complete 14 courses, 58.5 quarter units
Introductory Core Requirement
- 1 course; 4.5 quarter units
Sub Header Text Here
BA credential program requirements; K-12 school and classroom experiences; and observational skills in K-12 classrooms. Principles sustaining an inspired teacher mindset. Electronic showcase reflecting professional growth throughout the program. Grading is S, U or In Progress (IP).
Students must complete ITL 400 and Credential Packet prior to beginning ITL 402.
Foundation Courses
- 4 courses; 18 quarter units
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 400 and Students must complete the credential packet.
Examines historical, socio-political, cultural, and economic influences, as well as technological and other innovations on the evolution of education in the U.S. and globally. Considers the impact of legal mandates and other influential factors on the profession; identifies necessary knowledge, skills, and dispositions of an inspired professional educator.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 402
Examines psychological, socio-cultural, linguistic, and other factors influencing development, learning, and the full range of learners, including English Learners, standard-English learners, students with exceptionalities, and students with other needs. Considers a variety of data to identify appropriate strategies and community-based resources to support all learners and their families.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 404
Examines theories and research regarding typical and atypical child and adolescent development and learning. Considers various data collection and assessment techniques which guide the selection of effective instructional strategies, practices, resources, and technologies to create environments that support the full range of learners and provide equitable access to the curriculum.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 406
Candidates integrate principles of learning theories and factors influencing human development when designing instruction and evaluating instructional effectiveness. Candidates will utilize a four-stage cyclical model of planning, teaching, analyzing and reflecting in the process of learning-and-teaching to ensure all students equitable access to the curriculum.
Multiple Subject Credential Methods
- 5 courses; 22.5 quarter units
PRIOR to beginning any of the Multiple Subject Credential Area Method courses below, the candidate must successfully complete all Foundation courses, meet the Basic Skills and Subject Matter Competency, and meet any other related program requirements. This coursework will not transfer as graduate level credit to National University or any other University as it is part of an undergraduate degree program. Grades earned in graduate level courses will be calculated as part of the student’s undergraduate grade point average.
Sub Header Text Here
Research-based theories, methods, and strategies aligned to K-12 CA’s Common Core Standards and ELA/ELD frameworks. Principles needed to teach foundational reading, writing, listening, speaking, and language for all learners, including English speakers, English learners, standard English learners, students with exceptionalities, and students with other learning needs.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 510
Complex strategies for teaching reading, writing, listening, speaking, and language development. Research-based practices aligned to CA’s Common Core Standards and ELA/ELD frameworks. Language and literacy strategies for all learners, including English speakers, English learners, Standard English learners, students with exceptionalities, and students with other learning needs) in the K-8 classroom.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 512
Analysis of how elementary children think and learn mathematics. Research-based approaches enabling students to think critically and develop math proficiency. Developmentally appropriate instructional strategies for an integrative approach to teaching mathematics using content areas of visual and performing arts, social science, and STEM.
Sub Header Text Here
Prerequisite: ITL 516
Candidates apply developmentally appropriate practices in designing an integrative approach to science instruction. Utilizes a variety research-based approaches supporting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Analyzes how K-8 children learn science and other subject-matter utilizing an inquiry model. Integrates health science, physical education and STEM to support conceptual understanding and skills.
Sub Header Text Here
Research-based strategies and models managing an equitable and inclusive K-12 learning environments. Social-emotional growth, development, and individual responsibility. Positive interventions and supports, restorative justice, and conflict resolution practices. Prevention of common classroom problems. Effectively work with challenging students. Establishment of safe classroom and school environments to prevent bullying.
Student Teaching Requirements
- 4 courses; 13.5 quarter units
PRIOR to beginning any of the student teaching courses below, the candidate must successfully complete all
Core, Multiple Subject Credential Area Method, and upper division courses, meet the Basic Skills and Subject Matter Competency, and submit a complete student teaching application. The student teaching application process must be completed at least three-months prior to the candidate’s intended start of student teaching. Student teaching placements in K12 classrooms are made through a collaborative partnership of the university and respective school district. The student teaching placements must align to the subject matter credential sought. Student teaching is unpaid and composed of at least 600 instructional hours (16-18 weeks of full-time student teaching) in designated K12 classrooms. Note: The two seminar courses, below, ITL 551A and ITL 551B, are 2.25 quarter units each and will be taken concurrently with ITL 550A and ITL 550B, respectively.
Sub Header Text Here
Corequisite: ITL 551A
First half (8-9 weeks) of student teaching experience. Establishment of 300 of 600 total hours. Clinical practice placement in a district-university approved California K-12 classroom corresponding to the designated CSET area. Six Teaching Performance Experience (TPE) domains composed of 45 new TPE elements. Grading is S, U or In Progress (IP).
Sub Header Text Here
Corequisite: ITL 550A
Seminar concurrently taken with ITL 550A, Student Teaching A. Six Teaching Performance Expectation (TPEs) domains composed of 45 TPE elements. CalTPA Cycle 1. Grading is S, U or In Progress (IP).
Sub Header Text Here
Corequisite: ITL 551B; Prerequisite: ITL 550A
Second half (8-9 weeks) of student teaching experience. Establishment of 300 of 600 total hours. Clinical practice placement in a district-university approved California K-12 classroom corresponding to the designated CSET area. Six Teaching Performance Experience (TPE) domains composed of 45 new TPE elements. Grading is S, U or In Progress (IP).
Sub Header Text Here
Corequisite: ITL 550B; Prerequisite: ITL 551A
Seminar concurrently taken with ITL 550B, Student Teaching B. Six Teaching Performance Expectation (TPEs) domains composed of 45 TPE elements. CalTPA Cycle 2.
Degree and Course Requirements
To receive a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development with a California Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, candidates must complete at least 180 quarter units as articulated below, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper-division level, and a minimum 69 units of the University General Education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general electives may be necessary to satisfy total units for the degree. The following courses are specific degree requirements. Candidates should refer to the section on undergraduate admission procedures for specific information on admission and evaluation.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Identify essential concepts, inquiry tools, structure of content areas and resources for early childhood education.
- Develop oral, written, and technological skills for communicating with families and very young children.
- Create environments that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging for all children.
- Use systematic observations, documentation, and other assessment strategies in partnership with families and professionals to positively influence children’s development and learning.
Teaching Credential Program Learning Outcomes
- Integrate the knowledge needed for engaging/supporting all K-12 learners, including those with diverse learning needs.
- Integrate the knowledge needed for creating/maintaining effective learning environments for all K-12 learners, including those with diverse learning needs.
- Integrate the knowledge needed for making subject matter comprehensible for all K-12 learners, including those with diverse learning needs.
- Integrate the knowledge needed for designing/planning learning expe
Admissions
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
4 WEEK COURSES
Why Choose National University
- Four-Week Courses
- 190+ Degree Programs
- Online or On-Site
- Year-Round Enrollment
- Military Friendly
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 230,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
-Francisco R., Class of 2016
Useful Links
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
The Key Grant Scholarship
Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.