"I benefitted from individualized feedback, attentive supervision, and personalized support from program faculty and community mentors. They have been instrumental pieces of my success, and each taught me valuable lessons about being a great educator that I will carry with me for years to come." - Maia Hendrickson ‘21

Early Childhood Education is a growing field, with a dramatic increase in public support and dynamic research opportunities. Teaching in Early Childhood feels like a journey full of discovery, laughter and fond memories. Our program features innovative coursework and hands-on learning founded on research-based practices, sustainability, inclusion, and social justice.

Multiple Field Placements and Student Teaching Experience

With our signature "early and often" approach, field experiences begin in the first year. Student teaching internships with our community partners provide the opportunity to work in a variety of inclusive learning settings with young children and families, fully supported by dedicated faculty and experienced mentor teachers.

Dual Licensure and Multiple Minor Pathways

Students can choose to complete a Special Education minor or dual certification in both Early Childhood Education and Special Education. We also offer minors in Education for Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (ECLD), Human Development and Family Science, and Coaching.

Prepare to Teach Anywhere

Our nationally accredited program enjoys reciprocity with many other states and provinces, so you will be prepared to teach almost anywhere. See our Licensure page for more information.

Global Study Abroad Opportunities

You can engage in unique and exciting CESS study abroad opportunities in England, Finland, France, Hawaii, and Portugal. UVM's Office of International Education provides a full range of support services to assist you.

Tuition Scholarships

Vermont's Scholarship Program for Prospective Early Childhood Educators offers an interest-free, forgivable loan covering full tuition for qualified applicants seeking a degree in early childhood education or early childhood special education. The program is open to both Vermont and non-Vermont students. Applications will continue to be accepted as long as funding is available. Please visit the VSAC website to learn more and apply for this program and to explore other funding opportunities.

CCV to UVM Pathway

Our partnership with the Community College of Vermont (CCV) provides a joint pathway for students interested in studying Early Childhood Education. Students who complete their Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education CCV can take an additional 60 credits taken at UVM to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education. For more information, see the CCV to UVM Pathway.

Graduate Study and Accelerated Master's Degree Pathways (AMPs)

There are many opportunities to further your education at UVM. You can pursue our accelerated master's degree programs (AMP) in Special Education or Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. 

We also offer graduate programs in Curriculum and Instruction, Disability Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies, Higher Education and Student Affairs, Counseling, and Social Work.

Major Requirements

Overview & Requirements