The Pursuit Institute is thrilled to announce a new Early Education program, in collaboration with Ball State University and Kiddie Academy, that opens up unique opportunities for students pursuing a career in Early Childhood Education (ECE).

Ben Fritch, Director of Teacher Pathway Programs at Ball State University, provided further details about the program, explaining, “Ball State will be the related technical instruction provider for the Early Childhood Education (ECE) pathway. Students can take the Next Level Programs of Study ECE courses and get dual credit through Ball State. This pathway prepares students to not only pursue their degree in early childhood with the option of returning home to work once they receive their license, but to gain experience and get paid along the way.”

Erica Ryan, Regional Director at Kiddie Academy, is especially excited about the new collaboration.     
“I am very excited for this new partnership. This brings passionate early childhood students into our schools to gain experience with our professionals. I hope after these students graduate, some would want to return to our programs as professionals that are highly trained. I’m hopeful that the students will bring the same excitement for learning and passion for children that we’ve seen in past practicum students. Their enthusiasm brings a new energy into the school.”

With the demand for qualified early childhood educators only continuing to grow, The Pursuit Institute is excited to offer students a pathway into a rewarding and expanding field.

For more information and a full list of The Pursuit Institute’s 2024-2025 program offerings, visit the 2025-26 Pursuit Institute Course Guide.