Alameda County Office of Education

dependdepen A graduate in a cap and gown holds her diploma high, smiling with pride as she celebrates her achievement.

Bachelors Advancement Program

In collaboration with Reach University and EDvance College, the Bachelor’s Advancement Program provides individuals with the opportunity to earn either a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies or a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, depending on the institution.

The Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) has partnered with Reach University to expand access to a job-embedded Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, designed specifically for staff currently working in classroom settings across Alameda County schools.

Additionally, ACOE has partnered with EDvance College to expand access to a job-embedded Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, designed for staff members currently working in early childhood education worksites within Alameda County.

Through ACOE’s PATH Bachelors Advancement Program, eligible participants can earn their Bachelor’s degree while continuing to work in their communities—supported through mentorship, academic guidance, and financial resources. As part of this effort, ACOE PATH is launching a dedicated cohort program to further support participants in the B.A. pathway.

This cohort will provide guided gatherings, academic support sessions, and peer collaboration opportunities, helping candidates navigate their coursework and build a strong community of future educators.

Reach University Program Overview

The Reach University program is a great opportunity if you:

You have a High School Diploma or GED
Eligible college credits can be applied to this program.
Are at least 18 years old
You are employed at a public school in Alameda County that allows for 15 hours per week working with children in an academic classroom setting

Reach University Program Details:

This job-embedded undergraduate degree and teacher preparation program is tailored for school employees, offering evening and weekend classes, personalized advisory support, on-site mentorship, and extensive resources like financial aid and technology assistance to ensure candidate success.

Join an information event to learn more.

Reach University Application Requirements:

Apply by April 30.

EDvance College Program Overview

The EDvance College program is a great opportunity if you:

You have a High School Diploma or GED and 12 or more ECE units
You are employed and work a minimum of 15 hours per week, and have worked for 15 consecutive weeks at a licensed ECE setting while attending courses each semester
You demonstrate English Proficiency through one of the following methods:
- Graduation from a U.S. high school
- Passing an accredited college course in English reading and composition

See Program Eligibility

EDvance College Program Details:

This job-embedded undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Studies is designed for working professionals, offering remote coursework with flexible scheduling, guaranteed course availability, and a manageable workload. Through an earn-and-learn model, students earn college credit for paid employment while applying classroom learning directly in their workplace.

Schedule an Advising Lesson to determine your roadmap for EDvance College!

EDvance College Application Requirements:

Apply by April 30.