Early Childhood

The Early Childhood program at UAA blends theory and practice in the preparation of early childhood educators who can deliver quality care and education for young children from birth through age eight. 

Program Overview

Academic Pathway

Catalog links to current catalog year; see historic catalogs to view previous years. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What Early Childhood Degree is offered at UAA?  Is it accredited?

  The University of Alaska Anchorage is accedited by the NWCCU. The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Early Childhood Development has been recognized by the NAEYC through 2025 for specialized accreditation.  The Early Childhood program also offers an Occupational Endorsement Certificate and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education.

• Why should I take classes at UAA?

  UAA offers classes when students can take them in the evening and online. You will have a personal faculty advisor experience. Our classes are fun and easy to integrate into your important work with children and their families.

• Are Kodiak College and Kenai Peninsula College part of UAA?  Do they offer the same courses?

  YES! KoC and KPC are part of the UAA system. You can take classes at all three campuses to meet your busy schedules. We have a rotation for every course to be offered in Anchorage F2F and online.

• What classes should I start with? What should sign up for right now?

  EDEC A105 Introduction to the field of Early Childhood

  EDEC A106 Creativity and the Arts for Young Children

• What does a class look like?

  Anchorage classes meet one evening a week in a small group setting. Some classes are online and still meet once a week (through Collaborate or Zoom). Some classes are online and you can work at your own pace (asynchronous). Some classes are blended with both face-to-face classes and online work. Check with a faculty member to learn more about class options. All classes have practical activities that you can take back to your classroom/program. All classes have meaningful assignments. All classes provide opportunities to meet other early childhood professionals.

• If I live out of Anchorage, what are my options for taking classes?

  KoC and KPC offer Early Childhood courses online UAA offers some blended classes. UAA, KoC and KPC all offer GER courses online.

• I took Early Childhood classes a long time ago, will they transfer?

  Most courses will transfer! You will need to meet with an advisor to review the courses and transcripts. Advisors will help to file petitions.

• Will my degree in Early Childhood include teacher licensure?

  Yes! The Alaska Department of Education & Early Development has approved the BAEC with licensure.  Your program preparation will include completeing the necessary background checks and applications to earn a Type A license after completion of the degree requirements.

• How can I pay for my classes?

  Scholarships through UAA are available. Tuition reimbursement is available through THREAD. Many programs will help fund college credits – ask your employer.

• Early Childhood Resources
  • Thread - Resource and referral - offers reimbursement and PD
  • SEED - housed at Thread - houses registry of EC workers in the state - includes P-6 but only required for licensed EC programs (childcare/preschools)
  • Learn & Grow - AK Quality recognition and improvement system
  • Economic Impact Study
  • DEED EC
  • Parents as Teachers
  • Best Beginnings
  • Alaska Head Start Association
  • Mat-Su Health Foundation

  • Alaska Early Learning Guidelines
  • Alaska State Cultural Standards 
  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

Early Childhood Education Faculty