Early Childhood Education

Overview

The purpose of this master’s degree is to prepare teachers to understand and deliver strong, vibrant, and relevant instruction and leadership in Early Childhood Education settings.

CSUEB faculty work with local agencies, community colleges, and county personnel to insure that students receive advanced instruction in curriculum and pedagogy for this age group, analyze and understand research and practice, and promote leadership and collaboration with families. The cohort model is used in this two-year program. In other words, students take all classes together and develop strong personal and professional relationships with one another. 

Students in the program come from a wide variety of educational programs, including private, public, and home school preschool programs, Head Start, TK-3rd grade private and public schools. Thus, they experience a wide range of perspectives in the field of Early Childhood Education.  Students also enjoy the hybrid format of most classes, a 6:00 p.m. start time for classes, and weekend course offerings each semester.

The Early Childhood Education program at California State University East Bay is specifically designed for the working practitioner to gain professional knowledge about curriculum and leadership for children ages birth to eight years old. This degree emphasizes developmentally and culturally appropriate practices, “hands-on” experiences, evidenced-based instruction, working with families, and innovative ways to build leadership and professionalism.  Education of the whole child, including cognitive, social, and emotional aspects are covered throughout the program’s curriculum.  

The program is designed for preschool and T-K through third grade teachers. National, state, and local documents are evidenced in the coursework. The four-semester program includes a field-based practicum and accompanying seminar.

Career

Students who complete this degree may secure positions as Preschool Directors, Program Supervisors, Curriculum Specialists in Early Childhood, Community College Instructors, classroom teachers, employees for Head Start, State Preschool, Teachers on Special Assignment (TSA) and researchers for private institutions.