Master of Arts in Education in Early Childhood Education (MAEd)
Dedicate your career to the education of young children with a traditional Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Alabama. This 33 semester-hour, online program will give you specialized knowledge to meet the educational needs of children from preschool through third grade. As a graduate with a master's degree in early childhood education, you will be prepared as an outstanding educator and leader to not only further your career, but to achieve positive outcomes for our youngest learners.
Grow your teaching and curriculum development skills with a master’s in early childhood education from the University of North Alabama. Through advanced education and research in topics such as instructional techniques, learning theory, and classroom management, you will become a sought-after professional capable of even greater contributions to the development of children.
Time to Complete
Variable, but as few
as 1-2 years
Mode Offered
Online
Credentials
MAEd
Why North Alabama?
With roots tracing back to 1872 as the first state-supported teachers’ college south of the Ohio River, the College of Education and Human Sciences at North Alabama has a rich history of preparing high-quality educators. Our work has expanded to include preparing practitioners and researchers in the fields of education, health, and wellness. We believe that healthy minds and healthy bodies coupled with a desire for knowledge can nurture individuals who are game-changers for the communities of Northwest Alabama, the Southeast Region of the United States, and the world.
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Early Childhood Education Curriculum
Prerequisite: Must hold a valid bachelor’s-level, Class B professional certificate in the Early Childhood Education teaching field.
Required Courses:
EED 601 Methods of Action Research for Educators (3)
EED 602 Applied Action Research for Educators (3)
EED 605 Instructional Technology (3)
EED 610 The Master Teacher (3)
EED 611 Issues in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (3)
EED 625 Advanced Studies in Assessment of Early Childhood and Elementary Learners (3)
ALSDE-approved diversity course (consult with advisor) (3)
Advisor-approved coursework in early childhood education (12)
Total Hours: 33
Faculty
The master’s in early childhood education faculty at the University of North Alabama work tirelessly to provide rich experiences outside the classroom for students to develop knowledge, skills, and dispositions that will help them be ready to make a positive impact in their communities.
The faculty dedicated to leading you through your master’s in early childhood education online include:
Lisa H. Clayton, EdD, Professor, Program Coordinator, Elementary Education
Terri L. Garrison, PhD, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, Early Childhood Education
Rebecca K. Hopkins, PhD, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, Collaborative Special Education
Vicki K. Howell, PhD, Asssistant Professor
Lorie M. Johnson, PhD, Assistant Professor, Director, Continuous Improvement & Accreditation
Rebecca E. Smith, PhD, Assistant Professor
Chelsea B. Scott, Lecturer
Kantrele D. King, Lecturer
Faith A. Kelley, PhD, Assistant Professor
Hongxia Zhao, PhD, Assistant Professor
Savannah T. Siniard, Senior Administrative Assistant
Accreditation
All programs are approved by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) and are accredited through Spring 2028 by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
What can I do with a master's degree in early childhood education?
First and foremost, a Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Early Childhood Education will make you a better teacher. Through the advanced exploration of teaching, early childhood psychology, and with experience developing leadership skills, you will hone your craft and life’s work. As a graduate of the master’s degree in early childhood education program, not only will you be giving your career an advantage, but you’ll be even better prepared to affect the lives of children during their most critical development years.
Admissions requirements
Admission into the online MAEd in Early Childhood Education program at North Alabama includes the following requirements:
- Scholastic achievement: a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Preparation: currently hold valid baccalaureate-level professional educator certification in Early Childhood Education and/or satisfy the requirements for the Alabama Class B professional certificate.
Tuition and Aid
Online: $495 per credit hour with no out-of-state tuition or other, traditional fees.
2023-2024 Tuition Cost
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Early Childhood Education
Online: $495 per credit hour for 33 credit hours.