Early Childhood Education, M.A. – Initial Licensure

Earn Your Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education

Earning a degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) prepares you for working with children from birth through second grade.

At GovState, you will gain the professional knowledge and competencies needed to become a highly effective educator so you can provide your students with nurturing and safe learning environments and help make a positive difference in the lives of young children and their families

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and be seeking an initial Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)

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Degree/Certifications Earned

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Early Childhood Education
Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
Early Childhood Education (Birth through 2nd Grade) Endorsement
Early Childhood Special Education Approval (PreK Only)
Illinois Gateways Credentials:
- Early Childhood, levels 2-5
- Infant Toddler, levels 2-3

Career Paths

Many doors will open for you once you earn your M.A. in ECE. Here are just some of the potential careers you can pursue.

Kindergarten, First-Grade, or Second-Grade Teacher
Preschool or Infant/Toddler Teacher
Family/Parent Educator or Specialist
Child and Family Advocate
Assessment Specialist
Early Intervention Specialist

What You'll Study

Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.

Courses are offered in the evenings, in an online format.

View Catalog

Program Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university (any major)
Cumulative GPA of 2.75 to be admitted (GPA of 2.5 to 2.74 may be conditionally admitted)
Attain a GPA of 3.0 or better in all Professional Education coursework