UNM-LA NEWS RELEASE

UNM-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) has received official approval to offer a new Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education, marking an important step in expanding educational opportunities for students and supporting the early childhood workforce in northern New Mexico.

The decision followed a comprehensive review of the community college’s proposal, including submitted application materials and a favorable recommendation from the New Mexico Higher Education Advisory Committee.

“We’re very pleased that the higher education department has approved our Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education,” Brent Pickett, Ph.D., UNM-LA dean of instruction, said. “This builds on the certificate program and courses we already launched this spring, and it allows our students to take the next step toward a full degree right here at UNM-Los Alamos. Expanding into a complete AA program strengthens our mission to serve our community and directly supports local workforce needs — especially in partnership with Los Alamos Public Schools, who have been a great partner in this effort. This is exciting news for our students, our college and our region.”

With approval granted by the state and the institution’s governing bodies, UNM‑LA is authorized to move forward with implementation of the program. The new degree is designed to prepare students for careers in early childhood education and related fields, while also supporting transfer opportunities to four-year institutions.

UNM-LA advisors are available to answer questions and help interested students enroll in early childhood education courses offered this fall. For assistance, call (505) 662-5919 or email unmlainfo@unm.edu.