BA in Early Childhood Education (Bachelor’s Completion)
Earn a BA in Early Childhood Education at Azusa Pacific University
Prepare for California’s increasing focus on early childhood education by earning your bachelor’s degree in just two years—all while continuing to work in your profession. Designed for individuals currently working with an associate’s degree, you’ll benefit from evening and online classes, as well as hands-on classroom experiences that bring coursework to life. We are committed to providing a seamless avenue to further your education and fulfill your calling in the classroom. You’ll discover how to transform the lives of your students, meeting their unique needs through developmentally appropriate and engaging teaching methods.
Program at a Glance
Upcoming Events
Online Information Meeting
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 6-7 p.m.
Online Information Session
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 6-7 p.m.
Online Same-Day Admission Event
Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 5-7 p.m.
Application Deadline
Start times are available throughout the year—fall, spring, and summer. The upcoming application deadlines are:
- Fall 2025: Friday, August 8
Program Information
- Program Units: 36 (120 to graduate)
- Cost per Unit:
$452 for 100 and 200 level courses$527 for 300 and 400 level courses
Location
- Online
Gain Hands-on Experience
- Observe and gain expertise in the real-world classrooms of early childhood teachers.
- Actively engage with students ranging from preschool to third grade throughout the program.
- Complete 16 weeks of full-time student teaching under the guidance of a university coach.
- Join a supportive and vibrant community of educators dedicated to transforming lives.
By the Numbers
Get Started
Program Details
Azusa Pacific University’s Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education provides a pathway to becoming a PK-3 teacher. The young learner centered curriculum focuses on four main areas of the early childhood classroom: play, diversity, early literacy, and early math. Practical classroom and fieldwork experiences provide application to theory, preparing candidates to teach in diverse settings.
Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.
Informational Meetings
Prospective students may attend an informational meeting prior to submitting an application. Complete details regarding admission and specific program requirements, advising, and general information are discussed at information meetings. For details on upcoming dates, meeting locations, or registration, check if there are events on the School of Education’s information meeting calendar or call (626) 815-5376.
Admission Requirements—Domestic Applicants
The university graduate and program admission requirements below must be met before an application is considered complete.
- Graduate application for admission
- $45 nonrefundable application fee
- Official transcripts from all institutions leading to and awarding the applicant’s
associate’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
An official transcript is one that Azusa Pacific University receives unopened in an envelope sealed by the former institution and that bears the official seal of the college or university. A cumulative minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade-point average on the posted degree is required for regular admission status. Provisional admittance may be granted to individuals with a lower GPA if competency can be shown through multiple measures. - One- to two-page personal statement addressing the following topics: experiences from the applicant’s background that may enhance the teaching experience; the most rewarding and challenging aspects of working with youth; why the applicant wants to teach; preferred grade level and content areas and why; and how the applicant envisions supporting the success of all students and contributing to the profession. Written communication skills will be assessed along with content.
- Proof of Certificate of Clearance (COC) or Child Development Permit. Applicants for Summer or Fall Terms must have a COC valid through January 31. Applicants for the Spring Term must have a COC valid through June 30. View instructions on Obtaining a Certificate of Clearance (PDF). Applicants are encouraged to begin this step as soon as possible to allow time for the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing to process your information.
- 24 semester units of non-remedial, degree-applicable coursework at a regionally accredited institution of higher education in early childhood education.
Send official transcripts to:
Office of Graduate and Professional AdmissionsAzusa Pacific University
PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000
[email protected]
What to Expect
After all admission materials have been received by the Student Services Center, the faculty or department chair reviews the applicant’s file. The applicant is notified in writing of the admission decision.
What to Expect
After all admission materials have been received by the Student Services Center, the faculty or department chair reviews the applicant’s file. The applicant is notified in writing of the admission decision.
Delivering high-quality professional programs takes a comprehensive support system. Your investment in an advanced degree or program includes a network of services and personnel who partner with you in pursuit of higher education.
View a complete list of university fees.
All stated financial information is subject to change. Please consult with the Office of Graduate and Professional Student Financial Services located in the Student Services Center (SSC), (626) 815-2020, for more information.
Cost per Unit:
- $452 for 100 and 200 level courses
- $527 for 300 and 400 level courses
Financial Aid
Several types of financial aid are available to graduate students. The resources range from federal loans and state grants to, for some graduate programs, fellowships and scholarships. For details about financial aid available for your program, please contact the Office of Graduate and Professional Student Financial Services at (626) 815-4570.
Military Benefits
Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
If you have questions, we’re here to help! Connect with a representative who can walk you through the program details and application process.
Contact Your Admissions Representative
School of Education
Phone
(626) 815-5376
Azusa Pacific University
PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000
Student Services Center
Contact (626) 812-3016 or [email protected], and visit apu.edu/ssc for details on the admissions process, financial aid, and class registration.
International Services
International students should contact +1-626-812-3055 or [email protected], and visit apu.edu/international/.
- Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
- In addition, the School of Education receives accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), making APU one of only three schools in California with this distinction.
- Further, our credential programs are accredited by California’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
Featured Faculty
Amber Lynwood
Assistant Professor, Department of Teacher Education
Angela J. Guta
Director, Special Education Credential Programs, and Associate Professor, Department of Teacher Education
Cynthia Dollins
Associate Professor, Department of Teacher Education
Career Outlooks and Outcomes
The Golden State Teacher Grant: An Overview and APU’s Connection
APU is proud to be a recipient of the Golden State Teacher Grant, helping prospective California teachers to fund their education in pursuit of a teaching credential.