Early Childhood Education, B.A.E.

Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of Arts in Education (B.A.E.)

Quick Facts

Location

Main Campus (Tucson)

Program Format

In Person

Support the learning and development of young children from birth to age 8 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education in Early Childhood Education. As an educator in this critical stage of life, you will nurture children’s growth through responsive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate practices. You'll design meaningful learning experiences that help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while fostering strong connections between home, school, and community. Our Early Childhood Education degree emphasizes equity, relationships, and advocacy, preparing you to be a reflective and compassionate leader in the lives of young children and their families.
 

Qualify for an Arizona Teaching Certification for birth-grade 3 with an English as a Second Language (ESL) or a Bilingual endorsement.
Two full years of field experience - one in a birth-preschool classroom and one in a K-3 classroom.
Learn to build meaningful, culturally-responsive connections with students and families.
Careers

This degree will prepare you for careers in many fields, including:

  • Preschool education
  • K-3 education
  • Education policy
  • Early Childhood Director
  • Early Childhood Consultant
  • Infant and Toddler Teacher
Sample Courses
  • TLS 301: Child Guidance and Classroom Management (Birth-Age 8)
  • TLS 312: Early Language Acquisition and Literacy Development
  • TLS 411: Cultural Pluralism for Young Children
  • TLS 319: Language Arts and Literacy Practices for the Young Child

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Testimonials

“The ECE program taught me how to connect with every child’s unique culture and language. I felt prepared and supported from day one.” – Maria, Class of 2024

How to Declare an Early Childhood Education Major

Students can apply to the Early Childhood Education program after they have completed approximately 60 credits (usually at the end of their 4th semester). To be eligible to declare this major, students must have completed all composition and math requirements. Admission requires two professional letters of recommendation and an Identity-Verified Prints (IVP) card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. 

Learn more about professional admission and professional preparation

Ready to learn more? 

Every student has an assigned advisor to help you with your academic journey. Get in touch with a College of Education advisor.

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