Mission Statement

The Childhood Education and Family Studies Department is a community of scholars dedicated to developing critically thinking students and providing opportunities to attain high levels of knowledge and skill to be successful in their chosen careers.  Through teaching, research, and service, the CEFS Department is committed to be a model and resource for enhancing the quality of life for, and promoting the inherent rights of, children and families within the university, community, and beyond.  Through critical inquiry students engage in life-long learning and develop the skills to become leaders in their professional settings. We strive to prepare highly qualified professionals who will make a difference in the lives of children in today's diverse schools and communities.

Programs

The Elementary Teacher Preparation Program prepares teachers for grades 1 through 6.  The program consists of general and professional education coursework including extensive field experiences in area schools.  At successful completion of the program, candidates receive a B.S. Ed.-Elementary Degree and are recommended to the Missouri Department of Education for initial licensure.  Missouri State’s elementary program is the largest in the Missouri, graduating over 125 new teachers each year.  In addition to the preparation courses and experiences required for certification by the State of Missouri, each graduate chooses an emphasis area in which to specialize.  Candidates choose 12 hours of courses to complete an emphasis in reading, special education, early childhood, middle school, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, a foreign language, art, music, physical education or instructional technology.  The instructional technology emphasis includes eMINTS certification.  Go to http://education.missouristate.edu/ele/eMINTS for more information on eMINTS at Missouri State.           

The Early Childhood Program prepares teacher candidates to work with children from birth through grade three. This is a carefully designed program that provides a well-sequenced experience to prepare teacher candidates for careers as Early Childhood teachers in both public and private settings.   The Early Childhood Education is a selective admission program that is separate from admission to the university, filing your degree program, or admission to the Teacher Education Program.  Application to the Early Childhood Education program MUST be made when enrolled in ELE302 (as per scheduled deadlines of October 1, March 15, or June 15).  Application for Admission to the Early Childhood Education Program.

The Child and Family Development (CFD) program leaves Missouri State well-equipped to work in the human services field. Courses emphasize development over the lifespan, interpersonal relationships and the practical application of human development theories to children, families and the community.

The Child Development Center provides quality programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years and a learning laboratory experience for Missouri State students. The CDC serves 88 children in a full-day, year-round program. Highly trained staff provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum for the children and supervise practicum students.