Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Unified

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Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Unified * (birth-K) (KS) at the University of Kansas is an on-campus graduate certificate designed for early educators, and graduates can apply for licensure endorsement in early childhood unified (birth through kindergarten) education from the state of Kansas. Graduates of the program will be able to use knowledge and skills in early childhood education to appropriately address young children's birth through kindergarten needs, including those at-risk for and with developmental delays and disabilities. The program is offered at both the Lawrence and Edwards campus.

Career Outcomes with a Licensure Endorsement in Early Childhood Unified

Students pursue the licensure endorsement in early childhood unified* (birth through kindergarten) at KU with varying career goals in mind. It prepares graduates to apply the most current knowledge about early childhood education and early childhood special education. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

  • Professional development provider
  • Early interventionist
  • Family/parent educator
  • Kindergarten teacher
  • Early childhood educator
  • Early childhood special educator (ECSE)
  • Community-based itinerant ECSE teacher

*This academic program satisfies the requirements for the early childhood unified (birth through kindergarten) licensure endorsement in Kansas, but does not fulfill the requirements needed to complete a master's degree. 

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

Resources for licensure and certification boards outside of Kansas

Related Programs

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Program Details & Admission Requirements

Statistics

#1
Top ranked Special Education public graduate program
#8
Public School of Education & Human Sciences
27
Total credit hours required

U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools,” 2025-26

Graduate Student Life

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Research Opportunities

Graduate students at KU support faculty and research staff in conducting adding new information to the body of knowledge in a variety of fields.
Graduate research
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Graduate Student Funding

The Office of Graduate Studies at KU provides both internal and external funding resources to support doctoral students.
Graduate funding

Vibrant Campus Environment

In the heart of the United States, the city of Lawrence revolves around the University and its students.
About Lawrence

Professional Development

Graduate students will leave KU with a professional and academic network of fellow faculty and staff.
Career development

more doctoral student life

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Study & Teach Abroad

Program supports unique opportunities for students to acquire the knowledge, skills, & dispositions needed for culturally-responsive teaching.
Study abroad programs
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Student Organizations & Engagement

Students can actively participate in educational, social and community-building programs at KU.
Student organizations
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Lawrence , Kansas 66045
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Accreditation

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences is accredited under the NCATE standards through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Accreditation System.

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