Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood (PreK-2) MA Initial Licensure Program

Initial Licensure Program - Massachusetts Only

Lesley University's rich and relevant early childhood education program prepares you to build a dynamic classroom culture for young children.

Seeing Children as Competent, Curious, and Unique Individuals

At the heart of our M.Ed. in Early Childhood program is a respect for the competence and curiosity of young children in grades PreK-2. The program will prepare you to meet the unique needs of all children, and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Challenging and engaging coursework includes human development, literacy and literature, special needs, and family and culture.

Program of Study and Course Descriptions for the M.Ed. in Early Childhood Program [pdf]

Key information for the M.Ed. in Early Childhood:

This is a 39-credit program that includes 11 courses and a 6-credit practicum. Some courses include field-based assignments.
Practicum placements—in a MA public school in the role and grade level of the license you are seeking—are set up through the Field Placement Office.
Students may complete the program on a part-time or full-time basis. Full time students can complete the program in a minimum of four semesters (for example, beginning in summer and completing at the end of the following summer).
Classes take place at Lesley’s Cambridge, MA, campus, and at selected off-campus sites in an intensive weekend format.

Sample Program Course

EEDUC 5131 Developmental Learning

This course is designed to help teachers understand the principles of developmental learning, physical knowledge, symbolic thinking, language development, social and moral development, and their implications for teaching practice. An understanding of principles of developmental learning will be presented both through readings and through direct observation of children’s play, language, and social interactions.