Early Childhood Education Program
Montana Western’s Early Childhood Education program prepares students to work with children from birth through grade 3. The program combines coursework with hands-on experience in real early childhood settings, so students build practical skills while they learn.
Students can choose between flexible online coursework or face-to-face classes on campus. Online students complete coursework while gaining experience in licensed or accredited childcare programs and schools in their local communities. On-campus students follow Montana Western’s block model, taking one course at a time while participating in lab-based learning experiences.
The program focuses on developing confident, skilled professionals who are ready to support children, families, and communities across Montana and beyond.
Why Choose Montana Western?
Montana Western’s Early Childhood Education program is built to fit your life while preparing you for a meaningful career working with young children. With flexible options, hands-on experience, and strong support, you’ll graduate ready for today’s workforce.
A Network of Opportunities
In our program, you’re never on your own — we are proud of our extensive network of Early Childhood Education professionals we’ve built across the state and beyond and can’t wait to connect you with them.
Engaging Professors & Lab Site Coaches
Courses are taught by experienced faculty and instructors with extensive knowledge in their fields who are always striving to help students succeed. Our geographically based coaches ensure all students receive feedback in the classroom as they grow as educators and Early Childhood specialists
From Classroom to Career
You’ll have an advantage in the workforce as you further your education because your portfolio of experiences begins in the classroom! Learning by doing is the foundation of our program, whether you choose our on campus or online option. On campus learners are immersed in UMW’s unique Experience One Block Schedule model (where you take one course at a time for 18 days, followed by a short break, then move on to your next course).
Program Highlights:
- Flexible learning options: fully online or on-campus with hands-on lab experiences
- Small class sizes for more personalized, interactive learning
- Online pathways for both new students and working professionals
- “Learn while you earn” model with real-world experience built in
- Dedicated program success coach for one-on-one support
- Full-time or part-time scheduling options
- Stackable credentials that build toward advanced degrees
- Strong partnerships with early childhood programs across Montana
- Designed to support rural communities and workforce needs
- Coursework aligned with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards
- Affordable, high-quality education
Delivery Methods
Online
This program is designed to be flexible without sacrificing hands-on experience. Students can complete coursework fully online, making it a strong option for those outside Dillon or balancing work and family responsibilities.
At the same time, all students complete in-person lab hours and fieldwork in licensed early childhood settings or schools within their local communities. These experiences are built into most courses to ensure consistent, practical learning.
In Person
Students also have the option to attend classes on campus through the block model, taking one course at a time while completing lab experiences in local childcare centers and schools. If a student does not already have a placement, the program helps connect them with opportunities nearby.
Student Teaching
Students pursuing the licensure track complete a full-semester student teaching experience as the final step in the program. This placement takes place in a Kindergarten through Grade 3 classroom under the guidance of a licensed mentor teacher.
During the semester, students gradually take on full classroom responsibilities while receiving support and feedback from both their mentor teacher and a university supervisor.
Student Teaching Includes:
- Full-semester placement in an elementary classroom
- Supervision by an experienced, licensed mentor teacher
- Ongoing evaluation and feedback from university faculty
- Progressive responsibility leading to full classroom instruction
Stackable Degrees
Montana Western’s Early Childhood Education program offers a stackable pathway, allowing you to start where you are and build your credentials over time. Students can begin with a certificate and progress to an associate degree, then a bachelor’s degree, with each step building on the last.
This approach makes it easier to continue your education while working and gaining experience in the field.
*The Infant/Toddler Certificate can be used for the Associate’s Degree and for the Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Bachelor’s degree.
**The Early Childhood Education Certificate can be used for the Associate’s Degree and either the Early Childhood Prekindergarten – Grade 3 or the Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Bachelor’s degrees.
Career Opportunities
Our offerings prepare candidates for a range of careers working with young children and families, including:
Infant & Toddler / Early Childhood Certificates:
Entry-level roles such as aides and assistants
AAS in Early Childhood Education:
Lead teachers in childcare programs and Head Start
BS: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3:
Licensed preschool and elementary teachers
BS: Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood:
Leadership roles with a focus on child development
Scholarships & Financial Support
Financial support is available to help you get started:
- $1,000 scholarships for new Early Childhood Education students (Summer/Fall 2026 start)
- Federal financial aid options, including Pell Grants
- Additional institutional scholarships available
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Early Childhood Education courses can be completed online. However, all students are required to complete in-person lab hours at a licensed or accredited early childhood program in their local community.
All early childhood courses include lab hours—typically about 45 hours per class—working directly with young children in licensed or accredited childcare programs or schools.
Some courses require experience with specific age groups. If you are already working in an early childhood setting, you may be able to complete your lab hours at your workplace, as long as it meets course requirements.
For a full time students:
- Early Childhood Education Certificate: 1 year
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): 2 years
- Bachelor of Science (BS): 4 years
- Post-Baccalaureate: 1 year
The Early Childhood Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3 (PK–3) Bachelor of Science degree leads to teacher licensure.
Yes. Because students work directly with children during lab experiences, a background check is required during your first semester.
Montana Western offers a range of services to support your success, including:
- Dedicated program coaches
- Library resources
- Free counseling services
- Student Success and Disability Support Services
- Technical support
- Access to UMW’s Learning Center with tutoring support
Contact Information
Distance & Online Programs