KU adds early childhood graduate certificate program to its early childhood, special education graduate offerings

OVERLAND PARK — The new early childhood unified graduate certificate program and the existing master’s in early childhood unified at the University of Kansas prepare early educators to address the needs of each and every child, including those with, and at risk for, developmental delays and disabilities, an area in which there is an urgent need for skilled professionals.

Both programs also prepare students to fulfill the requirements for recommendation to obtain a teaching license in early childhood unified (birth through kindergarten) education from the state of Kansas.

Historically, this program has been successful in gaining federal grants to offer financial assistance to qualified students, including those starting this fall.

“Our early childhood unified graduate programs teach a holistic, collaborative approach to supporting each and every child and family in their natural environment,” said Rick Ginsberg, dean of the KU School of Education & Human Sciences.

KU’s master’s and graduate certificate in early childhood unified are nationally accredited programs under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Standards through the CAEP Accreditation System. They are offered through the KU Department of Special Education in the School of Education & Human Sciences, which was recently ranked No. 1 among U.S. News & World Report's Best Public Special Education Programs.

The early childhood unified graduate programs emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, real-world application of skills and team-based processes to inform early educators’ practice and support the development of young children most effectively.

The programs, which are offered at both the KU Lawrence campus and the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, are taught through a blended format of online and in-person classes, meeting once a week in the evening. The required curriculum also includes practicums, one of which may be completed in the student’s current early childhood work setting.

Individuals interested in starting the program in fall 2021 are encouraged to apply by July 20, 2021.

Contact Kim Huggett at 913-897-8421 for program details, application process and financial assistance information.

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