School of EducationEarly Childhood Education

Welcome to Early Childhood Education!

We believe in the power of education and the profound difference it can make in the life of a child. The foundation for learning is formed early in life, and it's in this area where our graduates are helping children prepare for future success.

Earning an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in early childhood education will prepare you to address the needs of our youngest learners (birth through 5 years) and help you advance your career. With UAFS you'll be able to earn credentials such as Child Development Associate (CDA), proficiency and technical certifications, and Birth through Pre-K credentials as you work toward your associate degree.

Our graduates become ABC preschool assistants and lead instructors, Head Start ECE instructors, child care providers for faith-based organizations, and care providers for families and larger centers.

Are you currently an ECE professional? You may be able to take courses, or have your staff take courses, at minimal cost, through the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship® from the Arkansas Early Childhood Association.

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Bachelor

Early Childhood Education

This 120-hour program is designed primarily for preschool workers and P-4 teaching assistants or paraprofessionals who are not seeking admission into a teacher licensure program. Coursework is designed to address the birth-to-age-5 population. Click here to learn more.

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Associate

Early Childhood Education

This 60-hour program is designed primarily for preschool workers and P-4 teaching assistants or paraprofessionals who are not seeking admission into a teacher licensure program. Coursework is designed to address the birth-to-age-5 population. Click here to learn more.

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Certificates

Technical Certificate

This 26-hour program delivers a curriculum specifically designed to address pre-school and early childhood education. Courses include Child Guidance, Preschool Curriculum, and Infant Toddler Curriculum. Click here to learn more.

 

Certificate of Proficiency

This 13-hour program delivers a foundational curriculum designed to address preschool and early childhood education. Courses include Foundations of Early Childhood Education, Child Growth and Development, Future Perspectives in Early Childhood, and First Aid. Click here to learn more.

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Endorsement

Pre-K Level, Age 3-4 Endorsement

This 13 hour program is an add-on to the elementary education K-6 license. It is open to students who are pursuing the Bachelor of Science in elementary education and currently licensed teachers who wish to add the endorsement to their existing license. Click here to learn more. 

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Non-Credit

Non-Credit Trainings

These FREE training courses are funded through grants awarded by the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. Click here to learn more.