Frequently Asked Questions

If your GPA is below 3.0, then you have the option of taking a graduate level course as a visiting student and then applying for the program. Students are not guaranteed admission to the program (a full application review will still be required) but they will be considered as eligible applicants if they earn a B or better in the course they take as a visiting student. Other coursework completed since your undergraduate degree can also be considered toward the GPA requirement.

Yes, many students work while completing the program. Synchronous class meetings are in the evenings from 5:00-6:50pm. Students in the Advanced Teaching Licensure concentration who take HDF/SES 607 and/or HDF/SES 606 are required to participate in 3-hours-per-week field experiences in high-quality inclusive settings.

Students in the Advanced Teaching Licensure concentration with a license in an area other than BK are also required to complete 8 weeks of full-time student teaching in high-quality inclusive settings. The program provides as much flexibility as possible for working students to meet these requirements. In some instances, students may need to leave their work settings to complete a field experience or student teaching in an approved setting.

The Leadership and Program Administration concentration does not require any classroom-based practicum experiences.

The program can be completed in as few as two years, depending on the concentration and number of courses taken each semester. A limited number of courses are offered during summer sessions. Students applying from fields other than early childhood education may be required to take two prerequisite courses before or during the program.

Complete the online application. Applications must include academic transcripts, a current resume, a professional statement describing interest and rationale for the concentration to which they are applying and career goals, and three letters of recommendation, including at least one academic reference. Applicants are also required to complete a writing sample and a phone interview with faculty.

Applications completed before January 15, 2024 will be given highest priority. All application materials must be complete by February 1, 2024 in order to be considered for Summer or Fall 2024 admission. Applications completed after that date will not be reviewed.

Applicants can choose to apply for either Summer 2024 or Fall 2024 admission. Choosing to apply for Summer 2024 means that you can complete the program in time for a May graduation. Summer classes begin in mid-May and run through late June.

Applicants who apply for Summer admission should be prepared to dedicate substantial time to their graduate studies because the summer course covers a full semester of content within 5 weeks.

Applicants who choose a Fall 2024 admission would begin taking courses in mid-August and may need to complete the summer course after the May graduation at the end of their program.

Applications are reviewed during the spring semester. Typically, applicants are contacted late in the spring semester with an update on the status of their application.

For further information about any BK program contact Dr. Catherine Scott-Little, Birth-Kindergarten Co-Director, Human Development and Family Studies at [email protected] or Dr. Heather Coleman, Birth-Kindergarten Co-Director, Specialized Education Services at [email protected]