Master of Arts in Education/Early Childhood Education

The Master of Arts in Education (MAED) with a specialization in Early Childhood Education is a graduate degree program preparing candidates for teacher licensure in the field of early childhood (birth to age eight). Candidates for this program have already earned a bachelor's degree and wish to gain the pedagogical skills and knowledge that will assist them in becoming competent and effective early childhood educators. The curriculum is based on state and national standards for early childhood education. It includes theories of early childhood growth and development, the significance of family and cultural diversity for learning, the use of developmentally appropriate practices, assessment techniques, and technology to promote learning.

Student teaching is an integral component of the Early Childhood Education Program. It provides students with a field-based experience in two early childhood settings. Student teachers work with a cooperating teacher and with a University of Phoenix faculty advisor in an early childhood setting that serves children birth through preschool as well as in an early childhood setting that serves children in kindergarten through grade three. The student teaching experience is designed to emphasize the achievement of state standards leading to certification and to present individuals with growth opportunities that best prepare them to assume the duties of a certified early childhood educator.