BA Education and Human Development,
Early Childhood Education at CU Denver
Empowering Educators to Shape the Future of Early Learning
Our Program Strengths
In-Person Experience
Engage in well-supported residency programs and internships at your place of employment.
Learn On Your Time
Choose online or on-campus courses with real-world field experiences.
Find a Path
The licensure track leads to Colorado teacher licensure, while the non-licensure track prepares graduates for leadership roles in early learning centers and community programs.
“This program offers a pathway or multiple pathways to become a teacher that contains deep clinical experience so that you're in classrooms from year one, with integrated coursework, so that you're using your coursework as you're in classrooms, to practice, implement, reflect and get feedback. So, you're growing yourself as a teacher for the full four years of an undergrad degree.”
Barbara Seidl, PhD
Associate Dean for Teacher Education and Undergraduate Experiences
“The University of Colorado Denver’s SEHD is flooded with instructors that exude empathy, compassion, and an eagerness to teach beyond what is expected. Learning is deeply rooted in reflective practices and students are challenged to be aware and mindful of their ever-growing philosophies. I appreciate the long-term support and relationships that are fostered in CU Denver's program! ”
LaTierre Greene
BA Education and Human Development, Elementary Education ’24
“I am so glad that I joined the Math Department at CU Denver with a concentration in Secondary Education. The professors in the math department are absolutely amazing. They are always willing to help in math and other aspects of life. Overall, the course load is manageable, and the NxtGEN program through the School of Education gives me a great challenge. It has been a great experience and I couldn’t be happier with the decision I have made.”
Kayla Shoemaker
BA Education and Human Development, Secondary Math ’24
“I am glad I chose CU because the program prepared me to teach a diverse population of students—and this allows me to see my students with empathy, equity, and inclusiveness.”
Luis Vega
BA Education and Human Development, Elementary Education ’22
6th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher, Mapleton Public Schools
Ready to take the next step?
The BA in Education and Human Development, Elementary Education (License) provides comprehensive training, experience, and mentorship to ensure graduates are prepared to lead diverse classrooms.
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CU Denver’s BA in Education and Human Development, Early Childhood Education offers both licensure and non-licensure tracks, preparing students to create inclusive, diverse, and family-centered learning environments for children from birth to age eight. Whether you aspire to become a licensed early childhood educator or pursue leadership roles in community-based education, this program provides the knowledge and experience to excel in the field.
Program Details
Course Start Dates
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Duration
Typically 4 years (varies based on pathway)
Number of Credits
Licensure Track: 126 credit hours
Non-licensure Track: 120 credit hours
Pathways & Career Options
Licensure Track
Prepare for a career as a licensed early childhood educator in public and private schools.
Non-Licensure Track
Gain qualifications to lead, direct, and coach in early learning centers, districts, and nonprofit agencies.
Students in this program develop strong teaching, leadership, and advocacy skills to support young children’s development in diverse settings. The licensure pathway fulfills all Colorado Department of Education (CDE) teacher requirements, while the non-licensure pathway prepares students for leadership and coaching roles.
Courses & Careers
Working with Families, Professionals, and Communities (ECED 4060)
Develop strategies for fostering inclusive, family-centered practices.
Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum Methods and Techniques (ECED 4102)
Learn methods for designing effective early childhood learning environments.
Early Childhood Education as a Profession (ECED 2000)
Explore foundational principles and career pathways in early learning.
Example Courses
Social Foundations and Cultural Diversity in Urban Education (EDFN 4010)
Explore culturally and linguistically diverse education principles.
Application Deadlines
Spring: December 31
Summer: May 31
Fall: July 31
Scholarships & Support
Access ECE Educator Scholarships and CU Denver’s personalized support for early childhood professionals.
