Master of Education (MEd) in Early Childhood Education - Carlow University

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.

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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

view plan of study

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

Take courses on campus or online
Earn your degree in 12 to 18 months
Apply TEACH Scholarship funding for initial certification

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.

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

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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.

Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.

Have an incredible experience

MEd graduate Heidi Lemon ’21 recommends Carlow for anyone looking for a unique educational experience. “Going through the education program at Carlow was an incredible experience. Each staff member taught me proficiency in their content area. The staff are the most caring individuals that I have ever encountered. I made lifelong friendships through this program.”

Early Childhood Education faculty & staff

Keely Baronak, EdD Chair, Professor, Education
Katherine Gullone Apprenticeship Coaching Coordinator
Rae Ann Hirsh, DEd Executive Director, Center for 21st Century Innovation and Workforce Development (C21) & Program Director, Early Childhood Education, Professor
Marilyn Llewellyn, PhD Professor, Education
Patricia McMahon, PhD Professor, Education
Tammi McMillan Director, Early Childhood Apprenticeship Hub
Susan O’Rourke, EdD Professor, Special Education
Valerie Piccini, MEd Instructor, Reading Specialist, Education
Susan Polojac Director, Apprenticeship Hub
Crystal Rose Pre-Apprenticeship Director
Pamela Zimmerman Coordinator of Undergraduate Programs, Education

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.

admissions@carlow.edu

+1 (412) 578-6059