Graduate Early Childhood Education Degrees

Choosing Early Childhood Education Graduate Programs

When choosing a graduate program in Early Childhood Education, it's important to weigh a number of factors.

First, there is your professional background. Some programs may be oriented toward active professionals, meaning they expect applicants to have a certain amount of experience in the field. Other Early Childhood Education Graduate Programs are aimed towards those new to ECE and teaching.

You may also choose your program based on the needs in your educational community, or your current or desired professional role. Some programs may focus on a particular aspect of the field or offer several concentration areas.

Finally, consider the level of education you wish to attain. Early childhood education degrees at the masters and doctorate level have different requirements, timelines and learning outcomes. Read program descriptions, requirements and course lists to see which match your interests, experience and goals.

Early Childhood Education Masters Programs

Early Childhood Education Masters programs are typically one to two year programs that require a bachelors degree. Some are designed for current teachers wishing to advance their understanding of early childhood education or develop administrative and leadership skills.

Other programs help those new to the field develop knowledge of teaching techniques, curriculum design and learning theory. These Masters in Early Childhood Education programs may be designed with teaching certification or licensure in mind, though this varies by state and program.

Masters Early Childhood Education programs typically combine classroom study with fieldwork, student teaching, or internships opportunities. In more research focused programs, students may also have the opportunity to complete a thesis. The requirements vary by school and often reflect the degree type and program goal.

Types of Early Childhood Education Masters Degrees

Masters in Early Childhood Education programs award a variety of degree types, including those listed below. These might not be the only degrees you come across in your search, but they are some of the more frequently offered options.

• Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Early Childhood Education - This is often a practitioner focused program and may place a heavier emphasis on classroom techniques and methods.
• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education - While also touching on classroom instruction, the M.Ed. may explore areas of administration or the school system at large. Often these programs cater to current teachers who wish to advance their career, but this varies.
• Master of Science in Early Childhood Education - MS programs may share many similarities with the MAT but could focus more closely on Early Childhood Education specific content. However these programs vary widely by school.

Each of these Early Childhood Education Masters degrees may have elements in common, and vary between institutions. The real determining factor is how the school chooses to define their program.

One way to decide between these options may be to pay attention to the goals of the program. Consider whether it focuses on developing classroom skills, administrative roles outside of it, or encouraging students to go on to earn a doctorate.

Some Early Childhood Education Masters programs may even offer the opportunity for further specialization, such as a focus on special education, Montesorri teaching or ESL. Similarities and differences between individual programs may vary, so you will want to follow up with your chosen programs for more information before deciding where to apply.

Doctoral Early Childhood Education Degrees

Early Childhood Education Doctoral Programs tend to focus on understanding or performing research regarding early childhood development and how young children learn. You might also study how to develop and apply strategies to help education systems succeed for this age group.

The two most common types of Doctorate Early Childhood Education degrees are the Ph.D. and Ed.D. PhD programs may be more academic in nature. EdD programs, on the other hand, are practitioner degrees focused on the field of early childhood education.

Regardless of the degree type you choose, most programs conclude with a dissertation or independent research project. Students choose a topic to explore and seek to contribute new knowledge to the field. In EdD Early Childhood Education programs, students may focus on applied research. PhDs students may explore a more scholastic topic.

Completion times depend on enrollment and program requirements. However, typically a student may earn their Doctorate in Early Childhood Education degree in 3-5 years. Requirements and program goals vary. As such you may wish to follow up with your potential schools for more information.

Graduate Certificates in Early Childhood Education

Those interested in learning more about early childhood education at the graduate level, but not quite ready to commit to a degree program may opt for a certificate. Graduate certificates in Early Childhood Education may be available at both the masters level (great for those who hold a bachelors degree) and post-masters level (for those who have already earned a masters degree).

These programs are typically shorter in duration than a full degree program and could give you the opportunity to study a specific topic closely. In some cases, you may be able to apply these credits toward the completion of a graduate degree program later on.

Similar to Early Childhood Education degree programs, you may find a great deal of variety between certificates. They may differ between subject areas and topics, requirements, formats, and more. Therefore it's best to speak with an advisor before enrolling.

Graduate Program Formats for Early Childhood Education

Once you have identified your preferred graduate Early Childhood Education degree level, you may find yourself choosing between several program formats. Online and on campus programs each have unique qualities and potential benefits to support your education.

Graduate Schools Offering Early Childhood Education Programs

On campus Early Childhood Education programs may enable you to take advantage of a number of valuable resources. Attending class in a physical classroom means you might interact with your professor face to face. Not to mention you could talk and collaborate with your peers on projects and assignments.

Attending a program at early childhood education schools may also grant you access to the resources and facilities on that campus. This might include things like libraries, technology labs, and other support services and social opportunities.

Finally, some schools may have relationships with nearby ECE organizations. This could be helpful in securing an internship or student teaching opportunities. Contact programs to see what potential benefits and resources may be available.

Early Childhood Education Online Graduate Programs

Online early childhood education graduate programs are a flexible option that may help fit your education into your life. Courses may be completed from your own computer or other compatible, internet-enabled device, from wherever works for you. This may be a great option for working professionals, as often coursework can be completed when convenient as long as deadlines are met.

What’s more, many online programs offer some of the same benefits as campus options. These could include career and academic counseling services, and online library and research services like scholarly journal database access.

It is important to note, that in some cases, not all components of a program may be completed online. Some may require short campus visits or student teaching and practicums at a nearby location. Hybrid options, which combine traditional classes with online learning, may also be available. Contact schools to learn more about any in person requirements while earning your online early childhood education degree.

Apply to Early Childhood Education Programs Today!

To take the first step towards earning your Early Childhood Graduate degree, explore the listings on this page. If you’d like to narrow these down a bit, you might also filter by program level, format, or even location.

Once you are satisfied, click the links to read about each program and reach out to request information. Find a great Early Childhood Education program today!