Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education

Eastern Oregon University’s College of Education Early Childhood Education program offers students the opportunity to explore the field of early childhood education and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for supporting, educating and advocating for young children. Students receive in-depth knowledge of early childhood foundations, development, learning, and pedagogy, and apply this knowledge in learning to create high-quality early care and educational programs that focus on developing appropriate learning experiences for young children. 

Be an Educator and Advocate

After completion of the ECED program, students are prepared to work as early childhood educators in the private sector as teachers, program directors, administrators, advocates, educational coordinators, or policymakers in schools, businesses, mental health agencies and community, private or church-related programs. Students who choose to obtain their teacher licensure may continue their education at Eastern Oregon University College of Education’s Master of Arts in Teaching licensure preparation program.

EOU’s Early Childhood Education Program offers students multiple pathways toward meeting your career goals. All options are offered fully online.

Early Childhood Certificate


The certificate includes introductory early childhood coursework in early childhood foundations, child development and working with families. The certificate may be completed in one year and when completed places the student on Oregon Registry Step 7.5 (ORO).

View the ECED Certificate Checksheet

Associate of Arts


The early childhood associate of arts includes both introductory early childhood and  general education coursework. This degree may be completed in two years and when completed places the student on Oregon Registry Step 9.

View the ECED Associate of Arts Checksheet

Bachelor of Arts


Finish your bachelor’s degree at EOU by completing advanced early childhood and elective coursework. Length of the program will vary depending on how many general education credits you have previously completed, and may be as little as 2 years. Students who need to complete additional general education credits may do so at EOU or with concurrent registration with Blue Mountain Community College. Transfer students should meet with an academic advisor to create your program plan. When completed the degree places the student on Oregon Registry Step 10.

View the ECED Bachelor of Arts Checksheet

Program Coordinator

Kate Puckett

Kate Puckett, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Education

Phone: 541.962.3586
Email: kpuckett2@eou.edu
Office: ZH-235

Program Advisor

Kylie Evans

Kylie Evans

Education Advisor and UG Ed Program Admission Coordinator

Phone: 541.962.3623
Email: krevans@eou.edu
Office: ZH-225