St. Cloud State’s early childhood education programs are unique in that they are organized under one department, so students receive the most collaborative experience and gain knowledge than spans multiple disciplines. Through our relationships with area districts and other community partners, you’ll build a network of practicing professionals, from educators to family advocates.
Our graduates work in partnership with parents, families, and community agencies to develop the minds of early learners. Through hands-on experience, course content, and connections with other professionals, you’ll discover techniques to enrich the lives of young children and their families.
The Child and Family Studies Department prepares students for future careers in:
St. Cloud State’s Child and Family Studies Department takes a wholistic approach to early childhood education. Our programs are continuously reviewed to incorporate the most up-to-date standards and innovative teaching methods in areas like mental health and cultural awareness. As a future educator, you will facilitate environments that meet the individual needs of children and encourage their successful introduction to learning.
Members of the Child and Family Studies Department are exposed to new experiences, early and often. Through coursework, students explore the classroom management strategies and early childhood concepts that set the stage for successful learning, like self-regulation and adaptation. During field experiences, you’ll see firsthand the importance of an equitable education and design curriculums that welcome students of diverse backgrounds.
St. Cloud State University has more than 500 experienced graduate faculty guiding our 1,700 full and part-time graduate students. As a master’s or doctoral studies student, you become an immediate member of a rich community of colleagues across the region, country, and globe. Join over 10,000 graduate studies students and become part of St. Cloud State’s alumni network.
of graduates employed within one year of graduation
Our Child and Family Studies students have remarkable success in post-graduation employment. Over 90% of CFS alumni find fulfilling careers within just one year of graduation.
Post-Graduation Outcomes
St. Cloud State’s Early Learning Center provides students the opportunity to gain first-hand experience working with children from birth to Pre-K. Explore the foundations of knowledge, the strategies to engage children early in the learning process, and the creative techniques to structure their education.