1. The degree will be a B.S. in birth-kindergarten. Graduates of this program will hold licensure certifying them as capable of demonstrating a broad range of skills in serving children age’s birth through five. This will include children with and without disabilities and their families.
2. The Distance Learning Program in Birth-Kindergarten will be initiated in Fall 2005; one course will be offered, BK 250 Introduction to Birth-Kindergarten. The next course(s) will be offered Spring 2006, followed by one or more courses per semester (including summer terms) to complete a total of 30 semester hours delivered through distance learning at Western Carolina University.
3. Entry to the Program will be selective and not based on open enrollment. To be eligible for the Program, applicants must have earned 60 hours toward a two-year Associate Degree and a 2.5 grade point average. Entry into Teacher Education includes completion of general application, PRAXIS 1 Test, a teacher interview, and a technology diagnostic. Selection criteria will include grade point average, instructor recommendations, and potential for completing the baccalaureate degree.
4. It is anticipated that no more than 35 students will form the cohort group and that all students who begin the program will be expected to remain in the Program on a continuous basis. Any exceptions related to dropping out and readmission to the Program must be approved by the Program Coordinator.
5. All students should have access to a modern computer. Assignments will include accessing Internet resources, WebCat online software, the WCU library, and the home page of an instructor.
6. A Program Coordinator will be appointed to oversee the curriculum and will visit sites to provide advising and program planning to students.

Distance Learning Program of Study (by delivery components)

• Licensure (PDF)
• Non-licensure (PDF)