Master of Science, Early Childhood Education

 

Applications will Open for Fall 2025

 

Program Overview

The MS in Early Childhood Education prepares individuals to teach and work with all students ranging in age from infancy through eight years (i.e., grade three). It includes preparation to teach all relevant subject matter. The purpose of this master’s degree is to prepare teachers to understand and deliver strong, vibrant, and relevant instruction and leadership in Early Childhood Education settings.

ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ faculty work with local agencies, community colleges, and county personnel to insure that students receive advanced instruction in curriculum and pedagogy for this age group, analyze and understand research and practice, and promote leadership and collaboration with families. The cohort model is used in this two-year program. In other words, students take all classes together and develop strong personal and professional relationships with one another. Students in the program come from a wide variety of educational programs, including private, public, and home school preschool programs, Head Start, TK-3rd grade private and public schools. Thus, they experience a wide range of perspectives in the field of EarlyChildhood Education.

The MS in Early Childhood Education is specifically designed for the working practitioner to gain professional knowledge about curriculum and leadership for children ages birth to eight years old. This degree emphasizes developmentally and culturally appropriate practices, “hands-on” experiences, evidenced-based instruction, working with families, and innovative ways to build leadership and professionalism.  Education of the whole child, including cognitive, social, and emotional aspects are covered throughout the program’s curriculum.  The program is designed for preschool and T-K through third grade teachers. National, state, and local documents are evidenced in the coursework. The four-semester program includes a field-based practicum and accompanying seminar.

Career Opportunities

Students who complete this degree may secure positions as Preschool Directors, Program Supervisors, Curriculum Specialists in Early Childhood, Community College Instructors, classroom teachers, employees for Head Start, State Preschool, Teachers on Special Assignment (TSA) and researchers for private institutions.

Admission Requirements

Students must demonstrate an appropriate background when applying for this degree. Background can be shown by successful completion of an undergraduate degree in Human Development, Psychology, or other relevant degree to the field of Early Childhood. Students possessing a Multiple Subject Credential or a degree in Elementary Education are also encouraged to apply. Students who have a Bachelor’s degree, but not in the Social Sciences, and have successfully completed at least 12 units in Early Childhood and/or have worked successfully in the field for at least 5 years are also encouraged to apply.

  1. Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
  2. Candidates must have earned at least a 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) in all upper division/post baccalaureate coursework.
  3. If candidates have a baccalaureate degree from out of the country, they must have their transcripts evaluated by the International Graduate Student Admissions Office.

Courses

Required Courses

  • TED 600 - Introduction to Graduate Studies
  • TED 601 - Professional Research Seminar I
  • TED 602 - Professional Research Seminar II
  • TED 603 - Professional Research Seminar III
  • TED 611 - Reading and Synthesizing Research in Education
  • TED 612 - Understanding Design and Planning Research in Education
  • TED 630 - Advanced Language & Literacy Development in Early Childhood Education
  • TED 631 - Advanced Integrated Math & Science in Early Childhood Education
  • TED 632 - Advanced Integrated Arts & Social Studies in Early Childhood Education
  • TED 633 - Advanced Special Education Practices in Early Childhood Education
  • TED 634 - Professional Leadership in Early Childhood Education
  • TED 635 - Field Based Practicum in Early Childhood Education

Capstone Requirement

  • TED 693 - Master's Project

Program Coordinator

Dr. Valerie Helgren-Lempesis
Art & Education Rm. 309
Phone: (510) 885-3006
Email: valerie.helgren-lempesis@csueastbay.edu

Admissions

  1. Submit Application for Change of Graduate Objective (online)
  2. Department Application and Requirements (click the "Apply" button below)

  2. Department Application and Requirements (click the "Apply" button below)

9 semester units (13 quarter units) from a graduate level or completed credential program from an accredited university.
  • Continuing Education/Extension units from other universities cannot be transferred into the MS program.
  • Any transfer units must be approved by the program coordinator.

Transfer units cannot be older than 7 years at term of graduation.