Early Childhood Inclusive Professional Pathway

Ready to advance your early childhood career? The ECI Professional Pathway is designed for individuals currently working full-time in an early childhood setting who are seeking Nebraska certification to teach in a variety of inclusive early childhood settings from birth to grade three.

This degree allows students to learn more about inclusive early childhood curriculum and pedagogy, socio-cultural understanding of development and learning, and the well-being of children from infancy to early elementary age.

Want to know more or have questions? Contact the Early Childhood Inclusive team and a faculty member will be in touch: unoeci@unomaha.edu.

Fill out an interest form for the ECI PRO Pathway

Program Benefits

The Early Childhood Inclusive program at UNO offers high-quality coursework led by experienced educational leaders and practicing professionals, providing students with real-world expertise and opportunities for professional growth. Students learn in a collaborative cohort model that fosters a supportive environment and ensures a predictable, consistent schedule tailored to meet their needs.

Through UNO’s strong partnerships with local school districts and community organizations, participants gain valuable connections and practical insights. Additionally, coaching and mentoring support is available to help students succeed throughout their educational journey.

💲  Funding and scholarship support is available for all participants!  💲

Program Details

• ECI Program graduates are certified to teach birth through 3rd grade (Special and General Education) or to work as an Early Interventionist.
• Practicum hours fulfilled with and around existing full-time setting* and supported with coursework
• Coursework delivered through a combination of evening, weekend, and online/hybrid classes
• Flexible and accessible, including summers
• Classes start Summer 2025, with students taking 2-3 courses each semester

* Practicum must be completed in a classroom with a certified teacher. If your workplace does not offer this, UNO will help you arrange an approved placement.

What Are Students Saying About the Program?

“I was excited to work alongside other co-workers and have support while learning. Being able to put what I’m learning into practice right away is helping me become a better teacher.”
- ECI PRO student Leilani Garcia

“I always wanted to continue learning and become a better teacher, and this program is helping me improve my education and improve myself as a person, teacher, co-worker, and team player”
- ECI PRO student Nancy Rivera

Admission Requirements

• Associate's degree or general education and prerequisite courses completed
• Employed as a full-time worker in an early childhood setting
• Availability to participate in a cohort model program for 2.5 years
• Admission GPA: 2.5

FAQs

1. Do I need to complete the FAFSA even if I have outside funding?
   Yes. If you are eligible for FAFSA, those funds are applied first. Your ECI scholarship will cover the remaining eligible costs.
2. What does the scholarship or private funding cover?
   It covers tuition, textbooks, and enrollment fees. School supplies and other personal expenses are not included.
3. What happens if I fail a class? Can I stay in the ECI Pro cohort?
   Students must maintain a C+ or higher. If you do not meet that requirement, you will need to retake the course, which may extend your time in the program.
4. What if I can’t attend a class meeting?
   You must contact your instructor as soon as possible, explain the situation, and work with them to determine how to stay on track.
5. What if I need support beyond academics?
   The ECI Director provides mentorship beyond academic needs. You will meet twice a month to set goals and get support with balancing work, school, and life.

Program Contact

Contact the Early Childhood Inclusive team and a faculty member will be in touch: unoeci@unomaha.edu.

Early Childhood Inclusive Director:
Tiffani Holmes, M.A. Ed.
tiffaniholmes@unomaha.edu