Eastern Michigan University introduces new Early Childhood Education program

Eastern Michigan University is launching a new Early Childhood Education bachelor degree program that is fully online and in a flexible format that will make it possible for individuals working full time in an early childhood education capacity to continue working while progressing toward their degree. The program is expected to debut in the Fall 2026 semester.

According to an article on Eastern Michigan University’s website, Rhonda Longworth, who serves as the provost and executive vice president for academic and student affairs at Eastern Michigan University, was quoted as saying of the new program, “Eastern Michigan University has long been recognized as the pre-eminent leader in preparing high-quality educators within the state of Michigan. This innovative new program will expand access for early childhood professionals who want to advance their credentials and continue making a difference in the lives of young learners.”

The Early Childhood Education bachelor degree program has been designed for individuals who already have an associate degree in the subject or in child development. These individuals may already be working with infants through preschool aged kids, and would benefit from being able to continue their work in an early childhood education setting while also earning a bachelor degree, especially as it will satisfy their fieldwork requirement.

The program will prepare students for their initial teacher certification along with a Birth–Kindergarten General and Special Education endorsement. The 64-credit program will include instruction in early literacy, STEAM consents, building inclusive classrooms, and early childhood special education. 

The program is put forth as an effort to advance Michigan’s Pre-K For All initiative which seeks to recruit at least 1,700 more preschool teachers by 2027. The program at Eastern Michigan University will include 20 students in the Fall 2026 cohort and will grow to 120 students by 2029.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the school’s website.