The Early Childhood Education program specialization is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed for individuals with a professional interest in the care and education of young children, with particular emphasis on pre-kindergarten through the primary grades. The realms of earlychildhood addressed in the specialization include public elementary schools, preschools, childcare centers and the preparation of practitioners for these settings. Master’s and doctoral programs include coursework in early education, child development or electives reflecting student interests, research methodology and research practicum. An internship is required for students who have not had teaching experiences in United States schools.

Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Program go on to become professors of early education or child development (in the United States and abroad), researchers in state agencies, directors of early childhood programs, school district administrators, classroom teachers and consultants. Most graduates take positions in early childhood teacher education or teacher education administration, for which they have substantial academic and practical preparation.

The Early Childhood Education Program benefits from a generous endowment from the Mithoff Family Foundation.