Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education bachelor’s program at METU is designed to train professionals who will support the healthy development and education of young children. The curriculum integrates foundational courses on child development, health and nutrition, and general sciences with pedagogical, psychological, and educational methodology training. Students acquire knowledge and skills in child growth and development, early childhood pedagogy, curriculum design, teaching methods, and health & care practices — preparing them to work as early childhood educators in kindergartens, preschools, or other early learning settings.
Located in Ankara within a well-established education faculty, the program balances scientific understanding of child development and health with practical pedagogical training. With access to modern educational infrastructure and rich course offerings, students graduate ready to contribute professionally to early childhood education, care, and development, meeting needs in schools, community centers, childcare institutions, or continuing with further academic studies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Early Childhood Education
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-medium)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Child Development, Early Childhood Pedagogy, Education Theory & Practice, Child Health & Care, Curriculum & Educational Methods
- Admission modus: Regular undergraduate admissions
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Child Development & Introductory Education
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- Maternal and Child Health & First Aid
- Development of Young Children
- Foundations of Education
- Academic English & General/Foundation Courses
Semester 2 – Psychology, Nutrition & Practicum Basics
- General Psychology
- Nutrition for Children & Mothers
- Practicum in Early Childhood Education (observation/practical work)
- English for Academic Purposes II / Supporting Courses
Semester 3 – Pedagogy & Early Childhood Teaching Methods I
- Teaching Science in Early Childhood
- Play in Early Childhood Education
- Computer / Technology in Education (Education-IT course)
- Educational Psychology
- Academic Skills / Supporting Courses
Semester 4 – Curriculum, Arts & Creative Education in Early Years
- Children’s Literature
- Drama for Young Children
- Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
- Early Childhood Music Education
- Restricted Electives / Supporting Courses
Semester 5 – School Experience & Didactic Training
- Community Service / Social Involvement
- School Experience / Practical Teaching Practice I
- Classroom Management & Discipline in Early Childhood
- Methods of Teaching in Early Childhood Education
Semester 6 – Special Needs, Environment & Educational Technology
- Visual Arts & Material Development for Children
- Teaching Mathematics in Early Childhood
- Education for Children with Special Needs
- Environmental Education in Early Childhood
- Instructional Technology / Digital Literacy Courses
Semester 7 – Parental Involvement, Assessment & Professional Skills
- Parent Involvement and Education
- Assessment & Evaluation in Early Childhood Education
- Practice Teaching I (in-classroom teaching practice)
- Professional Communication & Career Skills
- Elective / Supporting Courses
Semester 8 – Graduation Internship & Transition to Elementary School
- Practice Teaching II (Internship/Final Teaching Practice)
- School Readiness & Transition to Elementary School
- Educational System & School Management Basics
- Guidance / Child Welfare / Support Services
- Final Electives / Graduation Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates are qualified to work as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, childcare center staff, in public or private kindergartens, daycare centers, or institutions focusing on early childhood development. They may also work in curriculum development, child care & welfare services, community education programs, or continue with graduate studies (M.A. / Ph.D.) in education, child development, or related areas.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Early Childhood Education at METU means gaining a balanced education combining child development science, health and care, pedagogy, and teaching practice. The program’s comprehensive curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects — from developmental psychology to curriculum design, classroom management, special needs education, and educational technology.
This makes it an excellent choice for those who are passionate about early childhood, want to make a positive impact on children’s lives, and aim for a professional career in early childhood education or childcare, or want to pursue further academic studies in developmental and educational sciences.
Contact Information
Middle East Technical University – Department of Early Childhood Education (Faculty of Education)
Dumlupınar Boulevard No:1, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 4054
Email: eece@metu.edu.tr
Student Affairs Office – Early Childhood Education Department
Faculty of Education, METU
06800 Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 4054
Email: eece-undergrad@metu.edu.tr
International Office – Middle East Technical University
METU Campus, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1060
Email: ico@metu.edu.tr
