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Early Childhood Education (MAEC)

Master’s in Early Childhood Education Overview

100% online – perfect for working teachers
Graduate in as few as 24 months
No GRE/GMAT required
Michigan endorsement option available to those who hold a valid Michigan certificate
Affordable degree with financial aid available for those who qualify

Two path options:

Graduate Degree: Students who want a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education but are not planning to obtain the endorsement (ZS) will be awarded their degree upon successful completion of coursework. This is perfect for someone with a degree in another field – such as social work or psychology – who wants to work with young families and children.
Degree and Endorsement: Students who are elementary-certified and hold a valid Michigan Certificate and plan to complete the endorsement (ZS) in Early Childhood Education must, upon completion of the program, pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification for Early Childhood.

Master’s in Early Childhood Education Importance

Early Literacy – More than 1 in 3 children in the U.S. begin kindergarten without the tools they need to learn to read, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Literacy is a core focus of this curriculum, and teachers will learn the necessary skills to ensure students are literate at an early age.
Behavior Issues – The program prepares teachers to assist children who struggle with self-regulation, address behavior issues and integrate behavior modification into the classroom. Special needs are often not identified in early childhood, and the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education can help teachers address and recognize special needs and developmental delays.

Featured courses:

ECE550 Developing Literacy & Reading Proficiency in Early Grades
ECE566 Early Childhood Growth & Development
ECE620 Effective Behavior Management and Assessment in the Early Childhood Classroom