Home / Academics / Programs / Major / Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education
If you’re passionate about working with children from birth through second grade, Bradley’s Early Childhood Education program is designed for you. This versatile, hands-on program prepares you for Illinois teacher licensure, with credentials that can be transferred to other states.
You’ll gain dual certification in English as a Second Language (K-2) and Special Education Approval (birth through 2nd grade)—making you even more valuable in today’s diverse classrooms. Plus, from your very first semester, you’ll step into real classrooms, working directly with young learners. These multiple field experiences ensure that by the time you begin your student teaching semester, you’ll feel confident and prepared to lead your own classroom.

Experiential Learning
Starting in your first semester, you’ll gain real-world teaching experience through clinical field experience courses, working directly with students in local schools. You’ll collaborate with faculty and staff to teach children at interactive events such as:
- Literacy Around the World – Promoting global stories and reading engagement.
- PNC Worldwide Day of Play – Encouraging movement and active learning.
- Parade of Flags – Celebrating cultural diversity through education.
Program Details
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Bradley University’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program are equipped to nurture and educate young children with state licensure and hands-on experience. Careers include:
- Preschool teacher or director
- Kindergarten and elementary school teacher
- Childcare worker
- Infant teacher
- Child life specialist
- Behavioral analyst
- Early intervention specialist
- Childcare consultant
- Instructional coordinator