Early childhood degree to move fully online in 2025

Change will allow for expansion to additional students

Oct. 17, 2024 - The University of Wisconsin-River Falls will move its early childhood degree completion program fully online beginning in January 2025.

The program’s change to an online delivery method is tailored to accommodate the diverse needs of working adults, transfer students and those who are balancing family commitments. The program combines UWRF’s commitment to academic excellence with the convenience of online learning, allowing students to complete courses and field experiences close to home or work.

Students with existing college credits in early childhood education or child development may apply their credits toward a Bachelor of Science degree and optional Wisconsin early childhood teaching certificate.

The change to online only will officially happen on Jan. 27, 2025, the first day of spring semester at UWRF. 

The program is designed to provide students with a flexible, high-quality education that meets the demands of working professionals, according to Molly Gerrish, early childhood program director. Offering fully online coursework will allow the program to expand its reach beyond the River Falls region, she said. 

Students, faculty and staff worked together before moving the program online to reflect the changing needs of current and future students, she said.

“Our program is a great example of how UWRF strives to meet the needs of students, to honor their voices and to provide high-quality and accessible education,” Gerrish said. “Our program will continue our history of excellence and best practices in the field of early childhood with hands-on opportunities for field-based placements, faculty with content expertise, and the convenience of an online program.”

For more information about the program or to apply, visit uwrf.edu/MyDegree/EarlyChildhood.cfm, view our program guide, email debra.hare@uwrf.edu or call 715-425-3557.