In Carlow’s master’s in Early Childhood Leadership program, you will focus on evaluating early learning programs, coaching in an educational setting and developing curriculum. You will have a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of Head Start supervisor, center director, classroom coach and mentor.

The MEd in Curriculum and Instruction: Early Childhood Leadership degree offers advanced study of pedagogy for working educators or other interested individuals. Teaching certification is not required for enrollment in this program, and it does not lead to initial teaching certification. 

Students work on their assignment during class. All are seated at desks of 2-3 people.
Credits required: 

30 credits

Cost per credit: 

$600/credit

Time to degree: 

As few as 12 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

The curriculum in the Early Childhood Leadership program includes an examination of developmentally appropriate practices for each age group, along with models for parent involvement. The care and education of young children is studied from a historical perspective that includes current challenges and trends in child care, Head Start, preschool and early intervention programs. 

You’ll learn about delivery of service and governmental licensing standards, leading to a case study of an operational program. Community partnerships in the Pittsburgh area offer workshops and activities with guest speakers. 

Quick facts

  • Upgrade your professional credentials
  • Take night and online classes in an 8-week format
  • Complete your degree in 1 year or 2 years
31.07.2017 – Kyiv, Ukraine. Group of funny kids playing with block toys indoor. Cute kids playing together indoor. Preschool early education.

Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Leadership

This program is available as a graduate certificate which leads to an endorsement from PDE for already licensed teachers.

Career opportunities for Early Childhood Leadership

You’ll be prepared to work in community-based children’s programs, classrooms or child care settings. You will be qualified for advanced positions in education, whether public, private or with a nonprofit organization.


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

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

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.

An Innovative Way to Address the Teaching Shortage in Early Child Care

Mar 02, 2023

Increasing evidence shows that early childhood education significantly impacts a child’s performance in school and beyond. The teaching shortage in…

A Path to Educational Leadership

Feb 09, 2023

Whether you’re starting with a bachelor’s degree in education or going for your M.Ed. after a degree in something else,…

Importance Of Effective Educational Leadership

Jan 05, 2023

What is the importance of effective educational leadership? Education leaders guide the values of their organizations, motivate students, and encourage…

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.

Follow us and stay up-to-date on events and opportunities to learn more about our program and faculty.

© Copyright 2024 Carlow University. All rights reserved.