As an aspiring Early Childhood teacher, you will play an important role in shaping
the minds and hearts of the youngest learners by inspiring curiosity, instilling a
love for learning, and promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Our Leading Teacher Program in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) is designed to prepare
you with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to excel in preschool
and elementary classrooms in Pennsylvania and in many . The program focuses on developing your understanding of child development, educational
psychology, and effective teaching strategies to support young children.
Our dedicated faculty are committed to providing personalized support and mentorship
to help you succeed academically and professionally. Additionally, our strong network
of alumni and partnerships with local schools and organizations offer valuable opportunities
for networking, professional development, and gaining real-world teaching experience.
Program Information
Our Leading Teacher Program in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) is designed to prepare
you to be a leading teacher in preschool and elementary classrooms in Pennsylvania
and in many other states.
Schedule a visit to our School of Education on select weekdays at 12 p.m. or 3 p.m.
During your visit, you'll learn more about our undergraduate leading teacher program
and explore our Curriculum Center. To schedule a virtual appointment, please contact
Michelle Gapsky at (412) 396-5193 or at gapskym@duq.edu.
Gain Hands-On Experience
As a student in our program, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable
PreK- 12 classroom experience starting your first year. Through over 200 hours of
fieldwork in diverse school settings, you will have the chance to observe and participate
in PreK-12 classrooms in one of our 75+ partner schools before student teaching.
"Through many different field experiences and student teaching, I gained valuable
knowledge and hands-on experience in the classroom that allowed me to apply the tools
I had developed in impactful ways. Â鶹ֱ²¥ has been my home for the past
four years, and I will forever be grateful for everything the School of Education
has provided me!"
- Julia Arlia | B.S.Ed. Early Childhood Education '24
We are committed to providing students with a high-quality education at an affordable
price. A Â鶹ֱ²¥ education is an investment in your future. This investment
will prepare you to reach the height of your career and provide a meaningful return
on your investment.
Through our Dual Certification: Special Education with Content Area Certification
you can become certified in both PreK-4 and special education in Pennsylvania. Meet
the diverse educational needs of PreK-4 students in multiple school settings including
students with disabilities, challenging behavior and social and emotional needs.
Our 50% Tuition Scholarship is offered to full-time, first-year and transfer undergraduate
School of Education students who start their studies in 2024.
Student Teach Abroad
We are the only school in Pittsburgh to have a partnership with Indiana University’s
Global Gateway for Teachers Program, in which we offer various student teaching abroad
and other cultural immersion opportunities.
Transform the learning and developmental experiences of K-12 learners through the
resources in our Curriculum Center – a collection of PreK-12 educational resources
designed for our campus community that works with children.
The PreK-4 Classroom
Learn to create lesson plans and educational activities that align with young children's
developmental milestones and learning objectives and how to provide a nurturing and
supportive environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and social interaction.
Provide a nurturing and supportive environment that encourages exploration, creativity,
and social interaction
Teaching foundational skills such as language development, pre-math concepts, and
social skills through interactive and play-based methods
Monitor and assess each child's progress to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Collaborate with parents and caregivers to support children's learning and development
at home.
Foster a love for learning by instilling curiosity and a positive attitude towards
education.
Promote inclusivity and understanding.
Manage classroom behavior and address any social or emotional challenges that may
arise.
Create a safe and stimulating learning environment that promotes physical, emotional,
and cognitive development.
Model positive behavior and encourage positive social interactions among the children.
Early Start Programs - Graduate Degrees
Our graduate programs offer early start options for School of Education undergraduate
students, as well as all undergraduate students across the University. During your
junior or senior year, you have the opportunity to take up to five courses in a master's-level
program at the undergraduate tuition rate.
School of Education undergrad students can start graduate studies in:
The School of Education offers early start options for students who have demonstrated
a strong academic background (GPA > 3.0) to begin graduate work during their undergraduate
time at Â鶹ֱ²¥.
Other undergraduate students across the University who are in good academic standing
(GPA >3.0) and are interested in pursuing or exploring an education degree and/or
a teaching certification can begin to take courses as juniors or seniors in our graduate
teacher education programs.
We welcome you to connect with us to learn more and we will walk you through the application
process. To get started, call (412) 396-6093.
Hear from Our Students and Alumni
I selected Duquesne because I felt at home there. The people I’ve met so far
are so kind and truly want you to succeed. Duquesne’s Education program and the Curriculum
Center really stood out to me! I want to become a teacher because I’ve always had
a passion for the classroom.
Italia CicioneB.S.Ed. Early Childhood Education '27
When I talk to a student who struggles in the classroom, I tell them that they
are capable of anything. Every single person learns differently, and that’s okay.
Having that early exposure to various schools and grades, coupled with invaluable
insights from such wonderful professors, has truly cultivated my confidence. I feel
as if I am well-prepared to make a meaningful impact!
My degree in the School of Education has prepared me to be a creative & effective
educator who can not only ensure that her students are well prepared for the next
grade at the end of the year, but love the learning journey.
Isabel RothsteinB.S.Ed. Early Childhood Education '24
Featured content
Learn from experienced faculty, in a highly accredited program
Our program is guided by Pennsylvania's state standards and by standards of national
professional organizations. It's recognized by the national Council for the Accreditation
of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Explore Your Opportunities
Apply Today!
Learn about admission requirements and the application process
