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UMBC's early childhood education program offers both undergraduate and graduate teacher candidates a curriculum that prepares them for certification to teach children from Pre-K to third grade. While some graduates pursue teaching roles in public schools, others aim for leadership positions in private schools or childcare centers. The undergraduate certification stands out in two key ways. First, students must complete an academic major alongside their certification requirements, with popular choices including Psychology, American Studies, or Sociology, though majors like English, Mathematics, or Dance are also options. An Interdisciplinary major allows candidates to tailor their studies for leadership roles like childcare directors or to specialize in areas such as arts or environmental education. Second, the program emphasizes hands-on experience through semester-long field placements in diverse early childhood settings, enabling candidates to observe and engage in 4-5 classrooms by graduation. University supervisors provide regular feedback to support their development throughout the program.