Early Childhood Education at NIU
Bachelor of Science
Showing care for someone tells them that they matter.
As an early childhood education major, you'll learn how to care for some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Working with young children can be incredibly rewarding, as they thrive on interaction and new experiences. Join us to inspire and share in their moments of discovery and delight.
Currently working with young children? You may qualify for an Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity scholarship.
ApplyFind Early Childhood Education Scholarships
Learn close to home.
This program is also available at the University Center at McHenry County College.
What Can I Do With an Early Childhood Education Degree From NIU?
Our program prepares you to teach children from birth through second grade in Illinois public schools. You can also get approval to teach children with disabilities and an endorsement in English as a second language.
Top skills reported by alumni:
- Child development
- Curriculum development
- Lesson planning
- Special education
Top fields alumni work in:
- Education
- Health care
- Insurance
- Nonprofit
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU Early Childhood Education Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$60,135
Top employers include:
- Action for Children
- Batavia Public School District #101
- Bright Horizons
- DeKalb School District #428
- School District U-46
Job titles include:
- Behavioral therapist
- Elementary school teacher
- Early childhood special educator
- Paraprofessional
- Preschool teacher
Source: Steppingblocks, 2023
What to Expect as an Early Childhood Education Major at NIU
You'll gain the knowledge and skills to care for and educate kids in schools and other settings. Our fully accredited program emphasizes hands-on learning. By the time you graduate, you'll have spent hundreds of hours working with young children.
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.