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University of Northern Colorado

University of Northern Colorado

About

The University of Northern Colorado (UNC), a public university founded in 1889, has a long history in teacher preparation. We are proud of our heritage and it shows in many ways. Our faculty advocate a teacher-scholar model in which the art and science of teaching are regarded as critical in how we work with all students, including teacher candidates.

Our faculty model high-quality teaching and we place priority on engaging our students in real-world issues in the schools and in the community. We prepare the largest number of teachers and educators across the largest array of program areas, so our teacher candidates gain from interactions with a broad range of future school personnel. Because of our size and program quality we partner with schools across Colorado and the world.

Learn more about how UNC is recruiting the next generation of teachers here.

  • College or University
  • Greeley

Institution Links

  • Admissions
  • Financial Aid Office
  • Online Application
Aly Eschler

Taking over a classroom as a UNC student really helped prepare me for the challenges I face as a classroom teacher now.

Aly Eschler

University of Northern Colorado

Programs

Bachelor’s & licensure

Early Childhood BA - Ages Birth to 8 (Online Degree Completion)

  • Online

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    No

Relevant Links

Program Info

The Early Childhood Education Program at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) stands out as a beacon of excellence and inspiration, dedicated to shaping future educators for early childhood education. The program recognizes the diverse needs of its students by offering a fully online completer BA option, enabling those who have started their education elsewhere or have demanding schedules to finish their degrees, with flexibility and support. This online completion program is focused on teaching children from birth through age 8. You will gain the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to be successful in a variety of early childhood settings. Through meaningful and authentic coursework and extensive field experiences, you'll get to connect theory, research, and practical information to acquire a strong foundation of child development. 

The heart of this program lies in its exceptional professors and instructors, who bring a wealth of experience and inspiration to the classroom. These educators are not only seasoned professionals in the field of early childhood education, but are also passionate mentors dedicated to nurturing the next generation of teachers.
 

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Jun. 15, 2025

    Fall
  • Nov. 15, 2025

    Spring
  • Mar. 15, 2026

    Summer
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Ways to Lower Your Costs

Students at University of Northern Colorado have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with University of Northern Colorado to see if you can, too!

Amount
Description

Transfer Credits

Tuition costs $427 per credit hour--this is a flat rate, no difference between in-state or out-of-state tuition. The program is a total of 120 credits, including transfer credits. It is recommended that students transfer in 60 credits to the program.  

$1,050

Lucille C. Hartman Early Childhood Literacy Scholarship


The Lucille C. Hartman Early Childhood Literacy Scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a career in education. To qualify for this opportunity the applicant must be a full-time student; majoring in education; who is also a junior or senior; and demonstrates promise, ability, and performance in the field.  Preference to students interested in elementary education, who participate in extracurricular campus activities, and are taking coursework in early childhood education.

$3,600

Mary Ruff Early Childhood Education Scholarship

The Mary Ruff Early Childhood Education Scholarship is awarded to graduates of a Weld County high school. To qualify for this opportunity the applicant must be  accepted into the Elementary Education Professional Teacher Education Program; with a cumulative GPA of 2.5+; and be a graduate of a Weld County high school.

$550

Marlene Politzer Early Childhood Education Scholarship

The Marlene Politzer Early Childhood Education Scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Professional Teacher Education Program (ECEPTEP). To qualify for this opportunity the applicant must be enrolled in the ECEPTEP; with a cumulative GPA of 3.0+; a junior or senior; and exhibit excellent potential to become an outstanding early childhood education.

UNC Tuition Promise

The UNC Promise provides free tuition to students with the greatest financial need. If you qualify for the program, you will receive standard tuition and mandatory fees of up to 16 credits or a maximum of $5,836 per semester. Learn more

Work Study

Students can work full-time while enrolled in this program. Employment in a classroom setting may be used to count towards field experience/student teaching (see Program Advisor for more information) with specific program requirements.  Work study, paying at a range between $1000-$7500 per year (not available in the summer) may be an option depending on the needs of the UNC programs. 

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Licensure Areas

Early Childhood Education Birth-3

Program Overview

Program Hallmarks

Get Started

Dig deeper. Visit University of Northern Colorado's website to learn more and apply.