M.A. in Education, Option in Early Childhood Education

The Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education (30-36 units) is designed to foster the development of diverse educators who apply research-based knowledge in designing developmentally and culturally appropriate curriculum and assessment strategies for children ages birth through 8. Candidates develop strategies and approaches for building family-school-community partnerships.The ECE program continues to develop teacher leaders and advocates of young children, families, and the field. We have revised the program to now offer more subject matter content, specifically candidates learn evidence-based practices that are culturally responsive in building skills and the knowledge for literacy development and learning, for integrated mathematics with STEM education, and for early intervention. Candidates will also develop a broader understanding of the diversity of family structures and child rearing practices and apply that expanded understanding into the curriculum and interactions with families. Given the challenges facing young children and families, candidates critically reflect on issues that impact young children’s behavior, learning, and development, and identify approaches that support their growth and development through instruction and early intervention. Finally, candidates critically evaluate policies that impact young children and their families.

Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.Minimum 3.00 overall grade point average in last degree (not credential or certificate) earned from an accredited institution of higher education. Applicants whose overall GPA is less than 3.00 but meet the University minimum GPA requirement and who present compelling evidence of academic and professional potential either through recent academic performance and/or experiential background, may be considered for admission at the discretion of the program admission committee.