What is early childhood education?

While early childhood education continues to be of high importance to parents, policymakers, and the public, many incorrectly identify this critical period as birth through preschool or kindergarten. Although the brain develops the majority of its neurons between birth and 3 years old, early childhood education is defined as the period of birth through 8 years old, correlating with the second- or third-grade level.

What will you learn in an early childhood studies program?

Online or on campus, the right degree program can empower you with a deepened understanding of child development and learning, equipping you with the knowledge and professional competencies to help prepare you for roles in and out of the classroom. A master’s in early childhood studies program can also help you link the importance of early childhood education to issues of equity and inclusion, helping students learn and grow in a variety of environments. You’ll examine trends, apply cutting-edge research to the field’s most pressing issues, and become a skillful collaborator with families, colleagues, and agencies.

What is the outlook for master’s in early childhood education graduates?

The career outlook for those with a master’s degree in early childhood education shows growth in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of preschool and childcare directors will grow by 7% through 2028 1 . 1 Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/preschool-teachers.htm ; national long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

What are some typical jobs for someone who has earned an MS in Early Childhood Studies?

From public policy to professional development, the jobs for someone with an MS in Childhood Studies are as diverse as individuals and their reasons for pursuing an early childhood education degree. Below is a sample of potential career options: Child and family advocate Public policy coordinator Child development instructor Professional development facilitator Lecturer in early childhood studies Childcare administrator Owner, director, or assistant director of a childcare center Director or assistant director of a childcare program Preschool director Program administrator for early childhood programs Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.

Should you choose an online or on-campus early childhood studies program?

Ultimately, this decision comes down to personal preferences and time-management needs. Many enrolled in online master’s in early childhood studies programs find that online learning allows them to more easily balance work and personal commitments along with their academics. Others prefer the familiarity of a traditional brick-and-mortar institution. The choice is up to you.

MS in Early Childhood Studies

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Gain a deeper understanding of how to help prepare young minds through study and experience with a master’s in early childhood studies.

Next start dates

Course-Based Courses with a set schedule November 02, 2020
Tempo Competency-Based Learning Go at your own pace November 02, 2020

Transfer Credits

Up to 15 Credits

Learn from a university ranked No. 3 in master’s in early childhood education graduates. ¹

Impact children’s learning and development in a bigger way with Walden’s MS in Early Childhood Studies non-licensure degree program. A master’s in early childhood education prepares students to pursue teaching, advocacy, and leadership roles in school settings and beyond.

Learn from the Educator of Educators™

Walden University is proud to be recognized as the No. 3 granter of early childhood education master’s degrees. ¹

Readily Applicable Skills

Actionable learning allows you to immediately impact your education environment. Be a force of positive change in children’s lives while moving your career forward.

A degree on your terms

With a choice of two learning formats, this online master’s in early childhood education program is designed with your busy schedule in mind. Choose the option—course based or competency based—that best fits your life.

Vibrant Community of Educators

Join a vibrant community of 65,000+ student and alumni change-makers, including more than 150 state teachers of the year, who—like you—aspire to make a difference.

Program Savings

Course-Based: Receive your first course at no cost if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on November 2, 2020. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.

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Two Ways to Learn

Choose from two degree completion options.

The course-based format may be a good option for you if you prefer an instructor-led approach and learning on a predetermined schedule.

Tempo Competency-Based Learning^™ is an alternative way to earn your Walden degree. It’s different from our standard course-based learning because you can work at a pace that makes sense for you, and progress once you’ve shown you understand a subject. With Tempo Learning^®, you have the flexibility of online learning, plus the ability to personalize and control the length, cost, and pacing of your program. See below which specializations are offered in Tempo Competency-Based Learning in addition to our standard course-based learning.

Specializations

Administration, Management, and Leadership

Get the knowledge and skills you need to create child-centered programs that promote positive learning experiences for all children.

Course-Based Learning Tempo

Teaching Diversity in Early Childhood Education

Deepen your understanding of the ways diversity affects development and learning in early childhood.

Course-Based Learning Tempo

Admissions Requirements

Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.

General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.

Gain Solid Preparation for Today’s Education Environments

Put your confidence in a master’s in early childhood studies program that reflects professional guidelines established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Walden’s curriculum is informed by a panel of early childhood experts, each with practical, real-world insights. Build sought-after skills that prepare you to advance and excel in an evolving field.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the MS in Early Childhood Studies program will be prepared to:

Demonstrate deep knowledge of child development, learning, and effective programs and practices.
Critically examine issues, trends, and current research.
Understand foundational theories of research and practice evidence-based research and decision making.

Have deep knowledge of issues related to equity and inclusion; address inequities and advocate for social change.
Be skillful communicators, team members, relationship-builders, and collaborators with family members, colleagues, and agencies related to the field of early childhood.
Be critical and self-reflective of their own values, beliefs, and biases and use this understanding.

What’s the Career Impact of Earning an Early Childhood Master’s Degree?

America needs more qualified professionals to prepare children with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school—and in life. According to job market data gathered by Burning Glass Technologies, demand for early childhood studies practitioners grew 144% from 2010 to 2018.² The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that employment for preschool and childcare center directors will rise at a rate of 7% through 2028.³

What Can I Do With an MS in Early Childhood Studies?

With a master’s degree, you can start a new chapter in your career—or build on your prior experience to become a leader and innovator in the early childhood field. Career options range from postsecondary teaching and advocacy roles to administrative and leadership positions within early childhood learning environments. Potential occupations include:

Child and family advocate
Public policy coordinator
Child development instructor
Professional development facilitator
Lecturer in early childhood studies
Childcare administrator

Assistant director of a childcare center
Director of a childcare center
Owner of a childcare center
Preschool director
Program administrator for early childhood programs

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this early childhood studies master’s degree program.

Testimonials

Walden is so much more than an online university; it is a university that cares about your success as a person.

Seletha Tucker MS in Early Childhood Studies Graduate

I love Walden for the education and support I have received from every instructor.

Jay Rodriguez MS in Early Childhood Studies Graduate

If I talk to others who are looking to pursue their degree, I always talk to them about Walden and online learning.

Teri Peasley M.S. in Early Childhood Studies Graduate

Resource Articles

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MS in Early Childhood Studies