Early Childhood Education: Option 3 – Initial Licensure (Teacher Workforce), B.A.

Earn Your Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education

It has never been a better time to earn your Illinois teaching license.

Governors State University's Early Childhood Teacher Workforce program is specifically designed for you to receive the academic, financial, professional, and personal resources you need to earn your degree and become a licensed teacher. Whether you need tutoring assistance for a class or help funding childcare, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Candidates must currently work full-time in an approved early childhood teaching role, such as a teacher in a childcare center or as a paraprofessional in an elementary school.

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Highlights of Teacher Workforce Program

Prior college coursework can be transferred
Opportunities to earn up to 21 credit hours for prior learning and experience
Opportunities for job-embedded clinical field experiences and student teaching for candidates who work in an approved early childhood setting
Evening and online courses to accommodate candidates in the workforce

Degree/Certifications Earned

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Early Childhood Education
Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
Early Childhood Education (Birth through 2nd Grade) Endorsement
Early Childhood Special Education Approval (PreK only)
English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement
Early Childhood Special Education Approval (PreK Only)
Illinois Gateways Credentials:
- Early Childhood, levels 2-5
- Infant Toddler, levels 2-3

Career Paths

Many doors will open for you once you earn your B.A. in Early Childhood Education. Here are just some of the potential careers you can pursue.

Kindergarten, First-Grade, or Second-Grade Teacher
Preschool or Infant/Toddler Teacher
Family/Parent Educator or Specialist
Child and Family Advocate
Assessment Specialist
Early Intervention Specialist

What You'll Study

Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.

Courses are offered in the evenings, in an online format.

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Program Requirements

Currently work full-time in an approved early childhood teaching role, such as a teacher in a childcare center or as a paraprofessional in an elementary school
A cumulative GPA of 2.5 to be admitted
Attain a GPA of 2.5 or better in all General Education coursework
Attain a GPA of 3.0 or better in all Professional Education and Teacher Specialization coursework