Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood/Special Education major prepares students to support the learning and development of young children, including those with diverse abilities. This dual-focus program combines foundational knowledge in child development with specialized training in inclusive practices, assessment, and individualized instruction. Graduates are equipped to create nurturing, developmentally appropriate environments that foster growth, curiosity, and success for all learners from birth through third grade.

Hear from our Students

I absolutely enjoyed my time at BHSU. The support, encouragement, and dedication I received from my professors—especially those in the education department—never went unnoticed. The small class sizes provided a family-like environment where I felt that each student was able to receive the care and attention they deserved in their education. Even today, I have stayed in touch with some of my professors, and they continue to provide guidance and support as I navigate my own classroom. I am grateful for the educational experience I had at BHSU, which helped shape me into the young adult and teacher I am today.

McKayla Mattison

Why earn an Early Childhood Education degree from BHSU?

At BHSU, our education program seeks to not only broaden the understanding of early childhood development and education but apply it to hands-on situations. Here are a few ways we stand out:

Gain Hands-On Experiences: Students get to apply their learning with kids from preschool through third grade settings.

Learn from Expert Faculty: Our staff are experienced in the field and aim to enhance student knowledge and engagement in the classroom.

Acquire Certification: Through our program, students acquire the training and certification needed to work with children, from birth to age eight.

Learn to Strategize: Adapt and learn strategies for reaching each individual child and connecting with families to enhance learning for children in the classroom.

Careers & Outcomes

Preschool - Third Grade Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Early Childhood Centers

Early Interventionist

This program is ideal for individuals who have earned degrees in teachable subject areas and want to make a meaningful impact through teaching. By combining deep content knowledge with effective instructional practices, candidates learn how to engage students, design meaningful learning experiences, and foster academic success. Graduates leave prepared to teach in their content area while also developing skills that support long-term growth and leadership within the education profession.

Curriculum

Student Opportunities

Observation Hours - Observation hours place you in real classrooms where you’ll watch certified teachers in action—seeing how they engage students, manage the learning environment, and support children with a wide range of abilities. Observation hours let you connect theory to practice, reflect on different teaching styles, and begin shaping your own approach to working with young learners. These hours serve as an important foundation before student teaching and ensure you’re prepared, supported, and inspired as you move forward in your education journey.

Student Teaching Programs: Student teaching is your culminating hands‑on experience at BHSU. During this full‑semester placement, you'll have opportunities to take the lead in a real classroom—planning lessons, supporting students, and applying what you’ve learned with the guidance of an experienced mentor teacher. You’ll receive ongoing support from your cooperating teacher and a university supervisor, helping you grow your confidence, refine your teaching skills, and prepare for your first year in the profession. It’s a powerful, real‑world learning opportunity that truly shapes you as an educator.

Future Teachers Association is an organization on campus that is focused on bringing undergraduate students together to learn and grow in education at BHSU, offer professional development opportunities, gathering students together for social opportunities, interaction and supporting BHSU University Events and providing resources for future classrooms.

The Federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides grants of up to $4,000 a year to students who intend to teach full-time in a high-need field at a public or private elementary or secondary school that the U.S. Department of Education has designated as having a high concentration of students from low-income families. The Grant is available for select programs and requires you to agree to fulfill certain teaching obligations – or risk having the grant converted to an unsubsidized loan.

- Academic year application is required; forms do not automatically renew each academic year.

Afforable Education, Exceptional Opportunities

Discover how you can achieve your dreams without breaking the bank. Learn about our competitive tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid options designed just for you. Your future starts here at BHSU!

Tuition & Fees Scholarships & Financial Aid

College of Education News

BHSU Alum Calvin Campbell Establishes Rapid City Teachers Scholarship

Black Hills State University (BHSU) alum Calvin B. Campbell, class of ‘58, has established a new scholarship for future Rapid City Central High School graduates who attend BHSU and pursue a degree in education. The Calvin and Betty Campbell Teacher Education Scholarship will assist with the cost of tuition, carrying over four years to aid the incoming freshman who demonstrates financial need in receiving their degree.

BHSU Earns CAEP Accreditation for Excellence in Education Preparation

Black Hills State University’s College of Education earned re-accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a nationally recognized accrediting body, for educator preparation programs. BHSU’s education programs have maintained national accreditation since 1998.

More News

CAEP Accredited

The BHSU Early Childhood Education degree is offered through the BHSU College of Education, whose educator preparation programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). CAEP accreditation represents the highest standard for educator preparation and reflects a strong commitment to quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. This designation assures candidates and school districts that the program meets rigorous national standards for preparing effective literacy professionals. Earning your degree from a CAEP-accredited institution demonstrates that your preparation is grounded in research-based practices and aligned with the needs of today’s schools.