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The Ryerson School of Early Childhood Education is the oldest school of its kind in Canada with a proud history and an excellent reputation nationally and internationally. The School is linked globally with other institutions that specialize in early childhood education and related fields. From its origins in 1959 as the Preschool Education Option (a two year diploma program) of the Home Economics Department, the program evolved to a three-year diploma in the mid-sixties. In 1972, a four-year bachelor of applied arts (BAA) degree program was initiated. In 1982, the School again broke new ground by offering the direct entry program to graduates of two-year community college diploma programs in early childhood education. The program continues to expand as more college graduates choose to build on their ECE diplomas and achieve the baccalaureate degree. The direct entry program is available on a part-time as well as full-time basis and is attracting students from across Canada. In 2002, the School was authorized to grant the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree and Ryerson was officially recognized as Ryerson University. Over many years, the School of Early Childhood Education has consistently demonstrated its relevance to the learning needs of the communities it has served and its innovativeness in meeting emerging professional interests.