Program Overview
The Child Study and Early Education Master's program offers a comprehensive understanding of the educational and developmental needs of young children and their families in early childhood education settings. It emphasizes cultural context, assessment, and effective programming. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as teachers, non-profit professionals, early intervention providers, or educational consultants. The program features a pathway for teachers with prior experience to obtain a professional teaching license and includes a course on inclusive classroom practices.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Child Study and Early Education master's program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the educational and developmental needs of young children and their families within early childhood education settings. Students can specialize in early childhood education (infancy to 8 years), family services, public policies for children and families, or interdisciplinary work in childhood studies. The program attracts students with diverse backgrounds and experiences in early childhood education, including significant international experience. This diversity enriches the learning environment and allows students to gain a broader understanding of early education and care in various contexts and settings. Graduates often pursue careers in teaching, non-profit organizations, early intervention, and educational consultation.
Careers:
Graduates of the Child Study and Early Education master's program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the field of early childhood education. Some common career paths include:
- Teachers: Returning to classrooms as teachers in early childhood settings.
- Non-profit Organizations: Working in organizations that support children and families.
- Early Intervention: Providing services to children with developmental delays or disabilities.
- Educational Consultation: Offering expertise and guidance to schools and other organizations.
Other:
- The program offers a pathway for teachers with an initial teaching license and at least 3 years of experience in grades PreK-2 to obtain a professional teaching license.
- The program features a course titled "Inclusive Classroom-Application" (Education 615AK) that focuses on adapting curriculum and instruction to meet the needs of all children.
