Program Overview

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in unified early childhood teacher education at the University of Kansas prepares individuals to work in inclusive settings to meet the learning needs of each and every young child ages birth through 3rd grade, including those at risk for and with developmental delays or disabilities. The teacher education program combines general education courses and professional education coursework with multiple field experiences working with infants/toddlers, preschoolers, and primary aged children in diverse communities.

Career Outcomes in Unified Early Childhood Teacher Education

Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree in unified early childhood education from the University of Kansas will have fulfilled the requirements for the degree as well as the requirements for an early childhood unified initial teaching license for birth through 3rd grade in Kansas. The bachelor's degree in unified early childhood education prepares students to work as teachers in the classroom, as well as with other special education-related organizations. Potential position titles after graduation include:

• Early childhood special educator
• Early childhood educator
• Early interventionist (birth to age 3)
• Elementary educator (kindergarten through 3rd grade)
• Community-based itinerant early childhood special educator
• Family/parent educator

Licensure Information

The unified early childhood education program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Kansas. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

Related Programs

• Elementary education unified
• Elementary education

Resources

• Field experience
• Educator licensure
• Program faculty
• School scholarships
• Teach KU
• Kansas National Education Association
• National Association for the Education of Young Children
• Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children

Career Statistics

Salary Information

Graduates can expect an average salary of $58,000 in Kansas, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.

TESOL Opportunities

Students who successfully complete this program at KU may be eligible to take advantage of licensure endorsement options in TESOL.

Graduate Certificates

Students who successfully complete this program at KU are eligible to pursue a variety of graduate certificate options to complement their degree.

Graduate Study

Those who choose to pursue an advanced degree after graduation are considered for many highly-selective master's & doctoral programs across the U.S.

Program Details

The program combines general education courses and professional education coursework with multiple field experiences working with infants/toddlers, preschoolers, and primary aged children in diverse communities.

Statistics

#1 Top ranked special education program 95% Average licensure exam pass rate 90% Employed in degree field 38% Obtained further education

Accreditation

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences is accredited under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Accreditation System.