UMF’s Early Childhood Education major offers a high quality program with extensive experiences in children’s settings. The Early Childhood program at UMF has a national reputation for preparing highly qualified teachers.  Based on National Association for the Education of Young Children standards for teacher preparation, faculty prepare students to work with children from birth to age eight and their families. There are three options: B-K and PK-Grade 3, Birth to Kindergarten, and Pre-K to Grade 3.

How do I explore Early Childhood at UMF?

There are many ways to explore a major. You could:

  • Review the webpage for this major.
  • Talk to faculty members in the major. Ask about their career path.
  • Choose a class of interest and contact the faculty member to ask about going to one of the classes.
  • Talk with students in the major for insights into the courses you will take and professors who will instruct you.
  • Enroll in one of the following courses: EDU 150 Introduction to Early Childhood Education or PSY 225 Child & Adolescent Development.
  • Get involved by joining a club or volunteer with an organization.
  • Volunteer or intern with an organization that is aligned with this major.
  • Talk with a Career Counselor.

What careers can I get with this major?


Data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and other sources. Median Salaries for positions in Maine typically fall below those of other New England states.

What jobs have UMF graduates acquired?

Day Care Provider, Early Childhood Teacher, Pre-K Teacher, Early Head Start Home Visitor, Afterschool Project Director, Kindergarten through Grade 3 Teachers, Vocational Coordinator, Early Childhood Services Coordinator, Guidance Specialist, Education Technician, Supervising Lead Teacher, Director of Student Support Services at Thornton Academy, and others.

Can I minor in Early Childhood? Are there related majors at UMF?

UMF has minors in Early Childhood Special Education, Special Education, and Child and Adolescent Health. Majors related to Early Childhood Education include Early Childhood Special Education, Special Education, Elementary Education, Secondary/Middle Education, and School Health Education. Read more about majors and minors.

How do I declare this major?

Contact Dr. Patricia Williams, Education Center, patricia.h.williams@maine.edu, 207-778-7109 to discuss your interests. To apply to the major, complete a change of major form.

Back to list of majors at UMF