Master of Education: Early Childhood Special Education

Elmhurst’s innovative, interdisciplinary M.Ed. program is the only one in the Chicago area that blends the disciplines of early childhood education and special education.

Designed for candidates who are not seeking Illinois licensure, the program will prepare you to work with young children with disabilities at a critical time in their lives, when effective intervention can have a substantial positive impact. You’ll not only learn how to support children with special needs, you’ll establish strong, collaborative relationships with the children’s families, complete challenging hands-on field experiences and build partnerships with seasoned professionals.

At the end of the program, you will:

• Qualify for a Developmental Therapy Credential to work in early intervention through the Department of Human Services in Illinois

Program Format

The M.Ed. is a part-time, on-campus program with classes meeting in day and evening time slots across the week. The program requires a two-year commitment, and some daytime commitments are required, including classes, observation and field experiences, early intervention internships and a teaching practicum are required. You must be able to follow a flexible schedule.

Built on a cohort (team-focused) model, the program embraces the College’s belief that students play a significant role in supporting one another’s learning, motivation and success.