Empowering young children: Master’s in Early Childhood Education

In the graduate Early Childhood Education program at Carlow University, you will examine the philosophical, developmental, racial and ethical factors that influence a young child’s growth and development. Courses focus on nurturing the dignity, worth and uniqueness of young children from birth to fourth grade. You’ll learn how to create healthy and nurturing environments and relationships where children can thrive and develop a love of learning. 

The program, rooted in constructivism and guided by child development pedagogy and early learning standards, will prepare you for initial teaching certification. 

A Carlow professor leans over the desk of two students. They are discussing the classwork.
Professor Monique Hockman works with students, including Mary Opipery, left, (Class of ’22, biology)and Kinzie Walker (Class of ’22, biologry/perfusion) as they do redox titrations to determine the chemical composition of synthesized salt during a general chemistry II lab, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in AJ Palumbo Hall. (Rebecca Droke/Carlow University)
Credits required: 

36 credits

Cost per credit: 

$600/credit

Time to degree: 

As few as 12 months

Delivery: 

On campus or online

MEd in Early Childhood Education curriculum

You will learn inclusive practices, differentiated instruction, instructional and assistive technologies, birth-fourth grade curriculum strategies, universal design theory, the science of reading, best practices in dyslexia and culturally responsive education practices.  

You will take part in a variety of practicum experiences in your own classrooms and The Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University. Community partnerships in the Pittsburgh area offer workshops and activities with guest speakers.

Quick Facts

Alternate degree completion option

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Master’s in Early Childhood Education career opportunities

With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, you can become a preschool or elementary teacher, lead teacher in a child care center, early childhood consultant, lecturer or preschool administrator.

Employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 6% from 2014 to 2024, according to career planning site Myplan.com.

Testimonials #1
Meet our Alumni

RACHEL OWENS, 2010

Director of Special Education, Provident Charter School

"When deciding to attend graduate school, Carlow University was a natural choice, not only because of its familiarity, but also because of the various degree options."

ANTWAN CARTER, 2018

Head Teacher, Child’s World Daycare

"I especially loved The Campus Laboratory School. It was a chance to experience the design of different classrooms, closely observe many teaching styles, and practice using different instructional strategies in a supportive environment."

MICHAEL SHOATS, 2020

Chemistry Teacher, Avonworth School District

"I want to take this moment and thank Dr. Keely Baronak and the whole Carlow team for the education and experiences I've gained from the MEd Secondary Education program. I'm excited to represent Carlow in my new home."

Testimonials #1

Admission requirements and application process 

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Students must complete Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements to gain initial teaching certification.

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Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

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