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
The focus of the degree is understanding child development, strengthening observation abilities and developing skills working with young children. In addition, this program will familiarize students with resources for continuing professional growth, and provide opportunities to discuss best practice with others in the field.
The department believes that children build their understanding of the world by interacting with objects and activities, with adults and with other children. We also believe that adults learn best by interacting with other adults in discussion, experimentation, and reflection. Students are asked to stretch their thinking and share their experience with other students in the program.
Students who want to increase their understanding and excitement about working with young children, meet municipality child care licensing requirements, or complete a degree are encouraged to speak with any Early Childhood faculty member.
Academic Pathway
Catalog links to current catalog year; see historic catalogs to view previous years.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Early Childhood Degree is offered at UAA? Is it accredited?
UAA offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Early Childhood Development. This program is accredited by the NAEYC through 2025.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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If I live out of Anchorage, how can I take classes?
KoC and KPC offer Early Childhood courses online UAA offers some blended classes. UAA, KoC and KPC all offer GER courses online.
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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.
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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
Advising
For first year advising, contact Sharon Pruszko. For program advising, contact Dr. Hilary Seitz at 907-786-4872 or hjseitz@alaska.edu. Enrolled students can go to DegreeWorks to view degree progress 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Background checks may be required for some EDEC courses.
Early Childhood Education Faculty
| Name | Title | Program/Department | UA Email Address | Phone | Office |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilary Seitz, Ph.D. | Professor, Program Lead | Early Childhood Education | hjseitz@alaska.edu | 907-786-4872 | ADM 103L |
| Wei-Ying Hsiao, Ed.D. | Professor | Early Childhood Education | whsiao@alaska.edu | 907-786-4435 | ADM 103K |
| Kitty Deal, Ph.D. | Associate Professor | Kodiak College KOC | kldeal@alaska.edu | 907-486-1223 | KCC123B |
| Robin Dahlman, M.Ed. | Assistant Professor |
Kenai River Campus KPC
|
rrdahlman@alaska.edu | 907-262-0357 | Ward 211 |