Head Start BA Pathway at National University
The Head Start Bachelor’s Degree Pathway is offered by National University and developed in partnership with the National Head Start Association to prepare learners to better serve historically underserved children, families, and communities. This program provides an affordable and inclusive opportunity for Head Start staff across the country to complete their bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with a Head Start focus.
With our flexible online program, learners set their own pace and earn five stackable early childhood education certificates as they go. Each certificate focuses on a specific area of early childhood education, from foundations to curriculum connections, to trauma-informed care and leadership development. They consist of eight courses that can be completed in eight months.
Five Stackable ECE Certificates
The following certificates culminate in the bachelor's degree:
- Undergraduate Certificate: Early Childhood Foundations (36 Quarter Units)
- Undergraduate Certificate: Early Childhood Social Advocacy (36 Quarter Units)
- Early Childhood Education Certificate in Curriculum Connections (36 Quarter Units)
- Undergraduate Certificate: Early Childhood Education STEAM Integration (36 Quarter Units)
- Undergraduate Certificate: Fostering Early Childhood Education Leaders (36 Quarter Units)
Get a Head Start with Credits!
Head Start staff who have been awarded the CDA Credential through NHSA’s CDA Training Pathway will be eligible for credit for the following courses: ECE 201, ECE 210, and HED 220 (leaving only five courses to complete the first certificate). There may be other opportunities for Prior Learning Credit.
Affordability First.
We understand that cost can be a significant barrier to degree completion, which is why National University offers scholarships to eligible staff. With these scholarships, each certificate can be earned for less than $900 out-of-pocket. Our program also provides enhanced support and scaffolded academic support to help learners achieve their goals.