Birth through Kindergarten

Why should I major in Birth through Kindergarten?

Birth through Kindergarten majors develop skills to teach infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarteners with and without disabilities. Birth through Kindergarten majors will be prepared to work in settings that serve young children, including public schools, early intervention programs, child care and education centers, and residential placement centers. Furthermore, Birth to Kindergarten majors will become accredited in Arkansas’ Integrated Birth through Kindergarten/Special Education teacher licensure, as set forth in Arkansas Department of Education Rules Regarding Teacher Licensure.

What can I do with a degree in Birth through Kindergarten?

Graduates of the Birth through Kindergarten program will earn an Arkansas state license to teach in Birth-Kindergarten/Special Education classrooms. In addition, graduates may go on to be a Certified Child Life Specialist or a Certified Family Life Educator. Graduates may also choose to continue their education through graduate or professional school. Popular career choices include:

What does a Birth through Kindergarten major study?

In addition to the University core courses, students will take experiential teacher training courses including Child Development, Infant and Toddler Development, Child Guidance, Curriculum and Assessment and Field Experience.  Students have the opportunity to observe multiple classes at the Jean Tyson Child Development Study Center.

Course requirements for Birth through Kindergarten can be found in the UA Course Catalog. View the printable 2024-2025 checksheet and 2024-2025 nine-semester degree plan. An archive of past checksheets and semester-by-semester degree plans is available in Box.

How can a Birth through Kindergarten student be involved?

The School of Human Environmental Sciences, the College of Education and Health Professions, and the University offer a variety of outlets for students to gain professional development experiences.