ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University is continuing its full tuition and book scholarship for students pursuing a two-year associate degree in Early Childhood Education. The program is designed to grow South Dakota’s childcare workforce and respond to urgent statewide needs.
Dr. Nicole Schutter, chair of Teacher Education in the Millicent Atkins School of Education, emphasized the broader impact of the associate degree and the scholarship. “Early childhood educators shape a child’s first learning experiences, build curiosity, and foster confidence that lasts a lifetime. By offering scholarships that cover full tuition and books, Northern shows how deeply we value those who nurture our youngest learners. We’re investing in individuals and in the foundations of our communities.”
Northern’s Early Childhood Education associate degree is offered in a flexible format, with options to study in person or online. Paige Henningsen, originally from Ellendale, ND, worked at a childcare center in Aberdeen while enrolled in the program. “Receiving this scholarship made it possible for me to further my education,” she said. “Attending Northern for Early Childhood Education opened up endless opportunities for me, and I couldn’t be more grateful. It gave me the inspiration and motivation to start my career and open my own daycare.”
Northern State University will offer 10 full tuition and book scholarships to students beginning the associate degree in Early Childhood Education full time in Fall 2025. In return, recipients commit to working for two years after graduation in a licensed childcare center or a state-registered family daycare setting in South Dakota. Students may also choose to continue their education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Elementary or Special Education.
“Northern’s associate degree in Early Childhood Education prepares students to step directly into the workforce as qualified childcare providers and gives them a strong foundation to continue their education,” said Dr. Anna Schwan, Dean of the Millicent Atkins School of Education. “It’s a true career ladder.” The program is also unique, as Northern offers the only two-year Early Childhood Education degree among the state universities in South Dakota.
Learn more about Northern State University's associate degree in early childhood education at?northern.edu/degrees/ For questions, contact Dr. Nicole Schutter at?nicole.schutter@northern.edu. Apply for the Early Childhood Education Scholarship at?northern.edu/ECES.?
