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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

This online bachelor's degree completion program is designed for busy adults of any age who need to fit their college completion into busy lives, no matter where they live.

  • Open Entry: You can begin the program any term (Fall, Spring or various Summer sessions).
  • Flexible Program Design: We provide pathways and support for those who already have an Early Childhood coursework background, or those who are just getting started with this major and career path.
  • Quality Brought to You Online: This Bachelor of Arts degree is the same as our on-campus program. Courses are taught by the same faculty scholars who teach on campus.
  • The Best Teacher Preparation: UNC is the premier teacher preparation university in Colorado. Graduates of UNC teaching programs are highly regarded by employers in our region. You'll make a difference in the lives of your students, and establish a career in a field that is in high demand.

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Nov. 15, 2025

    Spring
  • Mar. 15, 2026

    Summer
  • Jun. 15, 2026

    Fall
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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

Get Started

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