Program Overview
| Program | Course Delivery |
|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education - Major | On-Campus |
Shaping young minds starts in the early childhood education program
It takes a big heart to shape little minds. Care for kids from birth through third grade and land careers in center-based settings, Head Start programs, schools, and preschools. Students who complete the primary education emphasis in this major will be eligible to apply for a Minnesota teacher’s license. Your students will keep you young at heart while you get to see their significant developments. There are bound to be a few fun surprises and a nice change of pace that come with working with young kids.
Early Childhood Education is a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
Ethan Christopherson
Admission Counselor
Early Childhood Education Major
The early childhood education degree is a career-oriented program that prepares students to earn their Minnesota teacher's license, a professional licensure that allows teaching young children from birth through third grade.
Graduates of this teacher education program design, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate learning experiences for young children in a variety of early childhood settings. They are prepared to work collaboratively with families and in the community. Significant opportunities for professional positions exist in these educational programs: infant and toddler care and education, preschool programs, K-3 classrooms, Head Start, and early childhood family education.
This degree program has two areas of emphasis—primary education and program management.
Students who expect to apply for teacher licensure must complete the primary education emphasis. Graduates with the primary education emphasis demonstrate competencies as described in the Minnesota Board of Teaching, Rules 8710.3000, Standard for Teachers of Early Childhood Education (ECE) and in Minnesota Rules 8710.2000, Standards for Effective Practice for all Teachers.
Awards and Accreditation
- This program is accredited by PELSB.
- The University of Minnesota Crookston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Student Experiences
Cost of Attendance (COA)
Full-time (13-18 credits), on-campus.
| Expense Category | MN Resident & Non Resident |
|---|---|
| Tuition/fees | $13,288 |
| Books/supplies* | $279 |
| Housing/food | $11,024 |
Average Cost After Aid
$13,436
Average amount of grants & scholarships received (2022-2023 data)
$12,894
Average net price after grants &
scholarships (2021-2022 data)
$22,883
Average TOTAL student loan debt after
graduation (2022-2023)
Scholarship and Funding Options
The University of Minnesota Crookston provides quick and easy access to over $1 million worth of scholarship opportunities for new and returning students!
Your Future Professors
What is Campus Life Like?
Residential Life
University of Minnesota Crookston's residence halls are ranked #1 public college dorms in Minnesota by Niche. The residential halls are clean, safe, spacious and modern. There is a mix of traditional style rooms, suites, and apartments available on-campus which include amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, walk-closets, and full size kitchens with all major appliances. There are also beautiful common spaces in every residential building that are great places to hangout, play games, study, or relax. Schedule a tour to see for yourself why they're ranked #1!
Student Stories
Seeking Full College Experience and Finding it Close to Home
It is hard to believe it now, but University of Minnesota Crookston (UMN Crookston) freshman Karlie Brekken struggled with her college decision. One week on campus this fall eliminated any doubt the Crookston native had made the right decision.