Bachelor’s in Unified Early Childhood Education at KU

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in unified early childhood teacher education at the University of Kansas prepares individuals to work in inclusive settings to meet the learning needs of each and every young child ages birth through 3rd grade, including those at risk for and with developmental delays or disabilities. The teacher education program combines general education courses and professional education coursework with multiple field experiences working with infants/toddlers, preschoolers, and primary aged children in diverse communities.

Career Outcomes in Unified Early Childhood Teacher Education

Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree in unified early childhood education from the University of Kansas will have fulfilled the requirements for the degree as well as the requirements for an early childhood unified initial teaching license for birth through 3rd grade in Kansas. The bachelor's degree in unified early childhood education prepares students to work as teachers in the classroom, as well as with other special education-related organizations. Potential position titles after graduation include:

Early childhood special educator
Early childhood educator
Early interventionist (birth to age 3)
Elementary educator (kindergarten through 3rd grade)
Community-based itinerant early childhood special educator
Family/parent educator

The unified early childhood education program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Kansas.

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

Resources for licensure and certification boards outside of Kansas

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Career Statistics

$58K salary

Graduates can expect an average salary of $58,000 in Kansas, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.

KSDE School Finance Reports

TESOL opportunities

Students who successfully complete this program at KU may be eligible to take advantage of licensure endorsement options in TESOL.

Graduate certificates

Students who successfully complete this program at KU are eligible to pursue a variety of graduate certificate options to complement their degree.

Online Graduate Certificates in Special Education

Graduate study

Those who choose to pursue an advanced degree after graduation are considered for many highly-selective master's & doctoral programs across the U.S.

Thinking about unified early childhood education?

Let us know you’re interested in the program. We would love to connect with you to discuss the program’s curriculum, steps necessary for admission to KU, and what to expect during the professional program.

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Program Details & Admission Requirements

"Being a part of the UEC program has been such a fantastic experience. The professors in this program are so passionate about what they do and are always excited to share their experiences. They always prove they care about us by being great advocates and listening to our point of view. The UEC student cohort are some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. I loved having them in all of my classes and having opportunities to collaborate and hear their different perspectives."

Madigan Sanders

graduate in Unified Early Childhood

Top ranked special education program

95%

Average licensure exam pass rate

U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools,” 2025-26

90%

Employed in degree field

38%

Obtained further education

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As students, we shine. As Jayhawks, we rise. Life on campus includes more than academics. Students in the School of Education and Human Sciences are engaged, involved learners.

Students visit Kaole ruins, Bagamoyo Stone Town. with ColLAB an international, interdisciplinary, experiential-learning, research program that provides a framework for a diverse group of KU researchers

Study & Teach Abroad

Program supports unique opportunities for students to acquire the knowledge, skills, & dispositions needed for culturally-responsive teaching.

Student Organizations & Networking

Students can actively participate in a variety of student-led organizations to enhance their learning and networking experiences.

School of Education & Human Sciences

Email:

soehsambassadors@ku.edu

Joseph R. Pearson Hall , Rm. 221

1122 West Campus Rd.

Lawrence , Kansas 66045-3101

Accreditation

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences is accredited under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Accreditation System.

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