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M.S. Ed. Early Childhood Education
The Pennsylvania Department of Education will be changing certification levels beginning January 1, 2013, and this has caused us to change the programs we offer. Currently, we are offering Early Level (PreK-4) and working towards other degrees that will meet PDE requirements. What will be eliminated are our degrees in Early Childhood (Grades N-3), Elementary Education (K-6) and the dual degree of Elementary Education and Early Childhood.
We will continue to update this section of the website with information regarding the change, but please continue to contact Dr. Julia Williams, williamsj@duq.edu, for the most up-to-date program information.
Graduate Study Scholarships available! Click for information (link)
This 42-semester hour program meets requirements for the Master of Science degree and the initial certification to teach pre-Kindergarten through grade three in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Prerequisite: a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Each student's transcript will be reviewed against the Pennsylvania Department of Education's standards. Persons who apply for initial certification (Instructional I) after June 1987 must complete the Praxis examinations as required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
The Department of Instruction and Leadership is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. These standards will be addressed during the coursework. The Leading Teacher program (LTP) in Early Childhood and Elementary Education is designed to prepare leading teachers for early childhood and elementary classrooms and program settings. Throughout the program candidates will have the opportunity to develop classroom and professional development skills by participating in the holistic approach to teaching using inquiry based methods as well as participating in several field based experiences that will provide a link between theory and practice. All of the core methodology courses will provide the candidate with guided field experiences. Candidates will also have the opportunity to focus on a particular area of specialty that will enhance their ability to be an expert in early childhood education.
The Graduate Education Division is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. This accreditation extends to the preparation of elementary and secondary school teachers and school service personnel, with the Doctor of Education degree as the highest degree approved.
A Master of Science in Education degree in the area of Early Childhood Education is designed for:
-Professionals seeking background and preparation leading to initial teacher certification.
-Certificated early childhood teachers.
-Professionals seeking a leadership position as a program director, a childcare/Head Start administrator, a consultant to parents, educators, corporations or government, or a public administrator.