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A child's formative educational years play a vital role in building the groundwork for continuous learning and future achievements. Structure your commitment to nurturing young minds by pursuing a Master of Education in Early Childhood and Special Education from Southern New Hampshire University.
For those dedicated to guiding young children through critical developmental stages and who take satisfaction in cultivating supportive, compassionate learning spaces, this hands-on program will advance your professional journey. Graduates become eligible for New Hampshire state certification in both Early Childhood Education (pre-K through 3rd grade) and Early Childhood Special Education (birth to age 8).
This intensive New Hampshire clinical M.Ed. program, offering dual certification in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education, equips future educators with the necessary qualifications for NH certification while developing the specialized abilities, understanding, and professional attitudes required to effectively teach young learners (pre-K - grade 3) and children with special needs (birth - age 8). Through its competency-focused, cyclical design, the program incorporates research-backed methods and extensive clinical practice spanning 44 weeks across four clinical experience phases.
Career Paths & Opportunities
A master's degree in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education opens doors to diverse professional paths. Alumni typically find employment as public school teachers (pre-K - 3rd grade), preschool/childcare operators, early education program administrators, or policy specialists in early childhood initiatives.
The need for qualified early childhood and special education professionals continues rising, driven by growing recognition of early education's significance and increasing demand for childcare and early intervention services. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, preschool teaching positions are expected to grow 7% by 2024, while kindergarten and elementary school teaching roles anticipate 6% growth during the same period.
Applicants for graduate programs must have the equivalent of a US bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA equivalent to 2.75 on a US 4.0 grading scale. Students with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 - 2.74 may be eligible for provisional admission.
Students wishing to enter directly into an Undergraduate or Graduate academic program must provide evidence of English proficiency by one of the following options: TOEFL: 71; IELTS: 6.0; PTE: 54; ELS: 112; EF: C1; ILSC: A2; Michigan: 85; ASC English: Completion of Level 6; FLS: Completion of Level 15.