Description
The Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education is awarded upon successful completion of the Undergraduate Study Program of the Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. The program aims to advance Educational Sciences through academic teaching, research and the integration of theory and practice. It provides comprehensive scientific and professional preparation for the teaching profession in early childhood education by developing knowledge in Educational Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Natural Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts, together with the competencies required to design, implement and evaluate educational practices for preschool children.
Relation to Employment
Graduates acquire the scientific and pedagogical qualifications required to practice as early childhood teachers in accordance with the applicable legal framework. They may also pursue careers in formal and non-formal education, educational, social and research organizations, educational programmes and lifelong learning, or continue with postgraduate and doctoral studies.
Access Requirements / Progression Opportunities
Admission is governed by the applicable higher education legislation. Graduates may continue to postgraduate, doctoral and lifelong learning programmes in Greece and abroad.
Knowledge
Upon successful completion of the Undergraduate Study Program, graduates possess comprehensive knowledge of Educational Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Natural Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts. They understand the theoretical foundations of early childhood education, child development and learning, teaching methodology, educational research and contemporary pedagogy. Particular emphasis on Research Methodology strengthens their critical understanding of the theories and principles underpinning these fields and supports their scientific and professional development.
Skills
Graduates are able to understand and analyse complex concepts in Educational Sciences, interpret educational and social phenomena and critically evaluate educational processes, practices and policies. They are capable of designing, organising, implementing and evaluating educational activities for preschool children, applying interdisciplinary approaches, using appropriate pedagogical methods and participating in educational and social research. They also develop collaboration, communication and problem-solving skills related to human rights, diversity and inclusive education.
Competences
Graduates develop the competencies required to practise as early childhood teachers with scientific competence, pedagogical responsibility and professional ethics. They are able to design and implement educational initiatives, support the holistic development of preschool children, critically reflect on educational practice and address issues related to social inequalities, cultural, religious and gender diversity, inclusion and environmental awareness. They are also capable of participating in research activities related to the Department's academic fields and contributing to the continuous improvement of educational practice.