The early childhood education program at MLC exists to prepare qualified teacher candidates for the early childhood ministries of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Graduates with an early childhood major are available for assignment to a WELS early childhood ministry (birth to grade 3) and are qualified for Minnesota state licensure* in early childhood education (birth-8 years).
*Minnesota licensure is currently not available to student new to the education programs during the 2026-27 school year. Please refer to the PELSB UPDATE found at the top right of this page.
In addition to the general education courses, students must complete additional required content courses, professional education courses, and field experieces as outlined below. Consult the program plan to see how the major may be completed in four years. Following the plan will also ensure that the appropriate general education electives are taken.
