Early childhood education
Bachelor of Science
Building brains and bonds
Research shows that quality care and education for young children is critically important, and the demand for qualified teachers for young children is great.
This program focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge base of early childhood educators for their important work with young children. You will study teaching methods, explore child development and family relations and learn about special education strategies. Much of your training takes place in real-world settings for infants and toddlers, preschoolers and primary-grade children.
Students who complete this program are eligible for the Idaho Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education (ECE/ECSE) blended teacher certification.
Overview
Shape young minds
Degree fit
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy working with young children
- Are or want to become a teacher of young children
- Have strong communication and leadership skills
- Are involved in your community
Career outcomes
Current job openings
3,376 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Nannies
$22,398 - Preschool Teachers
$32,772 - Child, Family, and School Social Workers
$47,185 - Kindergarten Teachers
$54,314 - Education Administrators for Preschool and Childcare Programs
$40,893
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho. When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Laboratory classes and clinics (child development laboratory)
- Internships with state/federal funded early childhood programs
- Study abroad
Clubs
- Collegiate Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)
- Phi Upsilon Omicron
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.