Frequently Asked Questions

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Is the EDCE program a recognized, accredited baccalaureate degree?

Yes!   Your diploma will state: California State University, Sacramento, School of Education, and Bachelor of Early Development, Care and Education.

What is the cost of the EDCE major courses?

*Note: This is a self-support program, with no taxpayer assistance; fees cover all student costs. Fees for on-campus general education classes are assessed as follows: current fees for 0-6 units: $1,604.00; more than 6 units: $2,450.00.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available based on individual student need.  The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be submitted immediately if you plan to use financial aid.  The CSUS Financial Aid Office processes loan and grant awards, which may take as long as 16 weeks.

What are the prerequisites to be admitted to CSUS and the EDCE program?

• You must be a high school graduate (or equivalent). 
• If you have not yet completed college level classes in English composition and math, you will need to complete assessments in English and math at your local community college.  However, your scores on these assessments will not determine your admission to the program. 
• You must have completed 3 of the four following foundation course; Oral Communication, Written Composition, Critical Thinking, and Quantitative Reasoning. 
• You must have completed 30 units of General Education coursework at a community college.
• You must have taken the following ECE classes (or equivalents); Child, Adolescent, or Human Development, Child, Family and Community, and Practicum. 
• Your cumulative GPA in prior college work should be at least 2.0, but admittance “on probation” may be possible for those not meeting the GPA limits.

How many units are required for the degree and what is the breakdown?

How many of these units must be taken “in residence?”

All CSU campuses require 30 units in residence, at least 12 of which must be in the major and 9 in general education.  The EDCE degree exceeds these requirements.

Can I complete lower division general education requirements at a local community college?

Yes, our academic advisor will work with you to develop a plan for this. 

Is the foreign language competency required?

Yes, this is a CSUS graduation requirement.  The requirement is three years (same language) of High School foreign language, 2 semesters (same language) of college foreign language with a C- or better, or fluency.  Fluency will need to be tested.  However, our academic advisor can discuss with you various ways to meet this requirement.

Can I work full time and complete the EDCE degree?

Yes, in fact the program is designed for the working student.  All classes will be offered in the evenings or on the weekends in convenient locations within your community. Students will take two classes (maximum of 7 units) per semester.  The reasonable work load allows students to work or take classes at community college while enrolled in the EDCE program. 

How long will it take?
The program is 8 semesters, three semesters a year (fall, spring, and summer).  For example, students who start in Fall 2010 will graduate Spring of 2013.

What is a “cohort?”
A cohort is a group of students who begin and end a program at the same time.  There are numerous benefits to an educational cohort.  Students will experience a comfortable environment, added support from their peers, and guaranteed space in their classes.

Are EDCE graduates eligible to enroll in a Master’s Degree Program?

Yes, EDCE graduates can pursue a Master’s degree in Child Development or a Teaching Credential program, provided they meet admission criteria. 

Where and when can I enroll in the EDCE program?

If you are interested in the program the first step is to complete the EDCE Application for Admission and submit with transcripts (unofficial okay). No fees are required at this time. The program coordinator will contact you to invite you to an academic advising session. At this time, do not send in a regular CSUS application; you must be approved for admittance in the EDCE program by an advisor before you can be admitted to the University.

What can I do with a degree in EDCE?

Most students continue to work in the early childhood education field.  Students go on to work as preschool teachers, administrators, directors, or child care business owners. 

Thank you for your interest in the Early Development Care and Education Degree Completion Program.  If you need further information, please call 916-278-4863 or email maresh@csus.edu.
 

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