In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid for your early childhood degree at Wayne State College.
Early Childhood and Family Studies Degree
About the Early Childhood and Family Studies Degree Program
Young children need special care and attention as they develop from infancy. They need guidance, teaching, and positive examples to become healthy teens and eventually adults. If you have a special spot in your heart for children, then consider an Early Childhood and Family Studies degree. You’ll learn how to care for their health, education, and welfare. You’ll learn responsibility for their social, physical, and intellectual development. Day cares are a common employer, where routine activities such as managing the eating, sleeping, health care, and recreational needs of children are the main day-to-day tasks. Preschool teachers provide additional learning experiences. A director supervises programs, including supplies and equipment, balancing the budget, and working with parents. With an Early Childhood and Family Studies degree from Wayne State, you’ll be prepared for a variety of these situations and be ready for many different careers in caring for young children.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Nationally Ranked Program
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the early childhood and family studies degree program.
Skills Learned
- Food preparation and baking
- Meal management and nutrition
- Health and safety of young children
- Red Cross CPR certification
- Parenting and family relationships
- Professional presentation techniques
- Consumer economics
- Early childhood growth and development
- Preschool curriculum development and practice
- Children’s literature
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Leadership and organization
- Time management
Possible Careers
- Preschool teacher
- Child care director
- Paraprofessional
- Teaching assistant
- Education administrator
- Day care provider
- Guidance counselor
- After-school program manager
- Camp director
- Youth worker
- Child development specialist
- Family support specialist
Employers
- Preschools
- Day cares
- Early learning academies
- Elementary schools
- Social services
- Child development services
- Government agencies
- Community centers
- Youth program facilities
- Counseling centers
- Student support centers
- Self-employment
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the early childhood and family studies degree program.
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, art shows, internships, and more.
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career! Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- District competitions – Compete in FCCLA STAR events to receive national recognition for your achievements in a variety of areas as they relate to the purpose of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America organization.
- Peer tutoring and mentoring programs – Help fellow students master their courses and improve their skills, or be part of a support system for new students, all while gaining valuable experience for your resume.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Internships
You’ll have a chance to work at local preschools or daycares to gain field experience and earn credit toward your degree in early childhood. Career Services is also available to help you find the best internship and employment opportunities.
