Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (Early Childhood Education & ESL)

This Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies offers an endorsement in early childhood education (PreK-3) and a secondary endorsement in English as a second language (ESL). The degree prepares students to be competent and compassionate teachers of young students and those with language barriers, providing them with the strong foundation and early intervention they need to excel in learning.

Program Benefits

• Learn from faculty who possess high degrees in their fields, who make an effort to know you personally, and who have relevant and valuable real-world experience in both public and private school settings.
• Enjoy our small class sizes and supportive campus community.
• Gain hands-on student teaching experience in both public and private school settings.

What to Expect

Trevecca’s early childhood education and ESL program equips you to work with young students and students with language barriers who can benefit from early intervention. When children have positive support in their early years of schooling, it sets them up for long-term success. As an early childhood and/or ESL educator, you won’t only be providing foundational skills like math, science, and literacy, but you’ll also be teaching children crucial skills in how to engage socially and emotionally in the world.

This program offers a solid foundation in early education combined with 12 hours of ESL instruction. Coursework covers topics like effective classroom environments; learning through play and expressive creation; education in urban culture; methods of assessment and evaluation for ESL; trends, models, and methods in ESL instruction; and linguistics for teachers of ESL. In addition, the courses and content in this program are consistently updated to reflect the ever-changing needs of modern education. Our technology course prepares you to confidently use technology to supplement traditional teaching methods and to present engaging virtual instruction.

This program also offers incredible field experience in a diverse range of learning environments. You’ll acquire 120-140 hours of hands-on experience with student teaching opportunities in both public and private schools. Trevecca has partnerships with both Wilson County Schools and Metro Nashville Public Schools. As part of your field experience, you’ll get valuable feedback from faculty and experienced teachers aimed at helping you improve your teaching craft.

Why Choose Trevecca?

Founded in 1901 and a leader in online education for more than two decades, Trevecca helps students discover and pursue an individual calling by providing innovative instruction; cultivating a supportive, Christ-centered community; and establishing relationships that open doors.

Recognized nationally and locally for academic quality, Trevecca has earned a reputation for providing the world with servant leaders, problem solvers, and difference makers. Trevecca’s holistic approach to education encompasses intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth.

As a Christian university, we offer programs that explore the ways faith intersects with your field of study. This means you can gain your degree in a supportive, Christian community with small classroom sizes and engaged faculty members who care about you and your goals.

As part of earning a dual endorsement in early childhood education and English as a second language (ESL), Trevecca students receive training in both subject areas to prepare them for early childhood instruction and language intervention.

Coursework covers topics such as effective classroom environments; learning through play and expressive creation; education in urban culture; methods of assessment and evaluation for ESL; trends, models, and methods in ESL instruction; and linguistics for teachers of ESL. Students receive a strong foundation in language and literacy instruction, children’s literature, early childhood math, social studies, and science methods.

With accreditation and esteemed faculty, Trevecca has helped develop the minds of students from all over the world for more than 120 years. Located in the heart of Nashville, Trevecca's faculty and staff are focused on preparing students for lives of leadership and service. Founded in 1901, Trevecca is committed to holistic education, encouraging students to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Trevecca offers classes at the main campus as well as two satellite campuses in Middle Tennessee and online classes worldwide. With students from 47 states and 39 countries, Trevecca offers 20 associate degrees, 81 undergraduate majors, 25 master’s programs, and three doctoral programs as well as specialist and certificate programs.

Academics

Earn a highly esteemed degree in a Christ-centered community that's committed to your success. At Trevecca, you’ll reach your education goals while also deepening your faith and worldview. Our body of multi-denominational, unapologetically Christian faculty and staff allows students to understand others' perspectives while also growing themselves.

• Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• 19:1 student-teacher ratio
• 94% of faculty with the highest degrees in their field

Community

We believe that faith should be at the center of all things. That’s why, as a university, we come together multiple times a week to worship, learn, praise, and grow in the chapel. This time allows our students, staff, and faculty to come together in fellowship to deepen their relationship with Christ and each other.

• 9 campus ministries
• 47 chapel opportunities per semester
• Annual international mission trips

Mission

Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian community providing education for leadership and service.

Our Campus

Our main campus is home to more than 1,000 students and has plenty to offer. From coffee shops and eateries to rec facilities and Benson Auditorium, there are places to hang out, get active, grab a bite, or watch a show. There’s always something happening right in our backyard.

Our City

You’ll find Trevecca in the heart of Nashville, just a mile from the vibrant downtown district, and students are surrounded by rich history and opportunities to learn, grow and serve. Off-campus volunteer opportunities allow students to see the city from different perspectives and help shine God’s light in different areas. Exploring the exciting urban surroundings, from Music Row to waterfall hiking to Opry Mills, you’re sure to find places where you love to spend time.