Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
This Master’s in Early Childhood Education degree program is grounded in theories that support high-quality educational experiences for children. Students in our M.A. in Early Childhood Education program will gain significant real-world experience as they are immersed in diverse environments working with children and families, fostering staff development, and collaborating with educational administrators and leaders.
Graduates of the Master’s in Early Childhood Education program will be able to apply the following to several educational settings:
- Evaluate national trends, theory, and research-based educational and administrative practices in early childhood education
- Conduct observations for typically and atypically developing children in an early childhood setting
- Utilize and evaluate various assessment tools and inquiry strategies to assess potential cultural bias and stereotypes
- Generate, implement, and evaluate educational curricula for the cognitive, social, and emotional needs of students in an early childhood environment
Please note: All early childhood education programs are taught in eight-week sessions: Fall I and II, Spring I and II, Summer 1 and II. All on-campus courses are “blended,” with 30 hours of face-to-face/in class instruction and 15 hours of online instruction.
M.A. in Early Childhood Education Degree Specializations
The ECE master’s program includes specializations in Trauma Studies and Organizational Leadership and Management.
Choose an Online ECE Master’s Degree or Study in Pasadena, California
We make sure Pacific Oaks Master’s in Early Childhood Education degree programs work for our students. If you need more flexibility, our online Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education allows you to pursue your education while maintaining your responsibilities.
Sample M.A. in Early Childhood Education Courses
The Impact of Privilege and Oppression in Early Childhood Educational Settings
Exploring the cultural contexts of communities from a lens of privilege and oppression opens doors to understanding and considerations for inclusion, equity, advocacy, and support in early childhood educational settings. This early childhood education course explores early childhood educational experiences relevant to such variables as race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, (dis)ability, and body size. Through self-reflection and critical review of related research and other scholarship, students in the early childhood education programs will examine the historical and current role of privilege and oppression in the delivery of early childhood educational services. Strategies and resources for designing and implementing programs that are intentionally inclusive and welcoming to all will also be addressed.
Public Policy and Its Impact on Children and Families
This ECE program course explores the role and impact of public policy as it relates to early childhood education. Through an examination of current and historical public educational policy, the course examines the multiple factors that influence the education of young children including emerging scientific research, diverse pedagogical perspectives, historical influences and data, community activism, and support systems addressing family well-being. The Master’s in Early Childhood Education course also focuses on policies related to the academic qualifications of teachers and administrators in early childhood education and the allocation of resources to ensure quality delivery systems. Students will also critically examine existing policies with regard to the delivery of culturally competent care for children and families and articulate strategies for advocating for public policy change where indicated.
Creating Responsive Communities for All Families
Maximizing the potential of every young child requires effective leadership committed to building culturally responsive and inclusive early childhood educational communities for all families. This Master’s in Early Childhood Education course emphasizes the importance of understanding what creates community and how it is best nurtured to be responsive to common community needs (e.g., parent education that enhances child growth and development) as well as those needs unique to particular communities. This M.A. in Early Childhood Education course addresses the importance of developing effective communication skills and culturally responsive programs and policies that welcome and celebrate all members of the early childhood education community. Existing programs and communication strategies will be examined, particularly with regard to the diverse needs of families.
Admission Requirements
- Completed Application for Admission
- Application Fee
- Resume
- Personal Statement
- Official Transcripts from all institutions attended
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of Pacific Oaks College
- Successful completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution in Early Childhood Education or Child Development*
*Students who do not have a B.A. in either Early Childhood Education or Child Development are admitted based on completion of approved courses from a regionally accredited college/university.
Pacific Oaks College prepares students in the ECE master’s program to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible early childhood education career options and salaries associated with this master’s degree from California.
Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to this in-person Early Childhood Education master’s degree program*. Pacific Oaks College is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.
*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions counselor.
Can I complete the M.A. in Early Childhood Education program online?
Yes! Pacific Oaks offers Master’s in Early Childhood Education online degree programs, allowing students the flexibility to choose the mode of learning that suits their needs. Both program formats prepare students for various ECE careers, including teaching in the state of California.
Are there specializations within the M.A. in Early Childhood Education program?
Absolutely! Apart from the general Master’s in Early Childhood Education curriculum, students can specialize in Trauma Studies where they will learn to identify and address the signs of trauma in children in classroom or child care settings. Students can also specialize in Organizational Leadership and Management which prepares graduates for leadership roles in early childhood education—securing management positions in public schools, child care programs, state agencies, and nonprofits.
How long does it take to get a Master’s in Early Childhood Education degree?
The duration of the M.A. in Early Childhood Education degree program at Pacific Oaks is dependent on the completion of 30 credit hours. This can be accomplished in two years for full-time students and four years for part-time students.
What are the differences between the Early Childhood Education bachelor’s, master’s, and Ed.D. degrees?
Our ECE degree program builds on the curriculum, delving deeper into early childhood education, developmental theories, and policies. The further a student progresses with their ECE education, the more analytical the academics become, preparing graduates for leadership roles that may influence policy changes and implementation, as well as evaluating educational practices. For a further breakdown into the degree differences, read our article, which explains the career goals and learning outcomes for each ECE program.
What are the potential ECE work environments?
Students with a master’s in Early Childhood Education may pursue a career in California, working within these various environments:
- Child care centers
- Family child care homes
- Pre-K school programs
Our ECE master’s degree prepares students to work in various child care and development-focused environments, from public to privately owned businesses or organizations.
Can I become a teacher with a mMaster’s in ECE?
Yes, graduates of our Education or Early Childhood Education programs can pursue a teaching career. We've outlined the steps to become a teacher in California, where the demand for qualified educators is especially high.