Early Childhood Education Degree in New York

The early childhood education field has massive importance in the bustling educational system of New York. Early childhood education in New York aims to prepare aspirants to shape young children’s minds for tomorrow’s success.

The programs combine theory and practical experience because practical experience is essential to lasting a good impact on children’s life from birth to age eight. Proper guidance and a friendly environment add significant value to an early childhood education degree. Many colleges and universities offer a degree from associate to Ph.D. level in early childhood education.

All universities and colleges offer outstanding academic education at affordable prices. Many of these colleges also offer an online program regarding childhood education. So, it is totally up to you. You can participate in an online program if you don’t want to attend colleges and universities. In this article, we will explore different colleges and universities that offer a degree in early childhood education. Read carefully for more information regarding early childhood education degrees in New York.

Early Childhood Degrees In New YorkOn-Ground

Let’s discuss some early childhood degree options in New York! 

Associate Degrees in Childhood Education

Bryant and Stratton College- Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education

Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education at Bryant and Stratton College provides aspiring students with a strong foundation in the practical application of childhood theory. This program ensures that students gain a sufficient understanding of early childhood handling from infancy through middle childhood. 

The university trains students to critically plan, integrate, implement, and collaborate with families to create a happy, learning, and fostering environment. Students learn curriculum designing, comprehensive child development, guidance strategies for child behaviors, effective mentoring strategies, and many more.

The 120-credit-hour degree plan comprises the coursework that fulfills the National Child Development Authority (CDA) credential requirements. Being the most widely recognized credential, Bryant and Stratton College students are highly encouraged to apply for CDA immediately after completing the program. 

Certain requirements, such as licensing and training, are put forward by the Council for Professional Recognition in addition to the general education components for the Child Development Associate Credentialing process. To enroll in the program, you must visit the official university website, fill out the application form, pay the online application fees, and submit official transcripts. 

There is a plethora of job placements for Associate graduates in early childhood education, including preschool teachers, instructors, curriculum planners, and many more. The graduates of this program get an opportunity to work in a variety of early childhood educational and childcare setups, including Head Start programs, early intervention programs, child development programs, and public education classrooms.

Hudson Valley Community College- Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Administration

Hudson Valley Community College, well-known for years of high-quality education, offers a 2-year Associate program in early childhood administration for individuals passionate about childcare and early childhood education. The coursework aims at providing a sound foundation in early childhood education, pursuing careers in teaching or administering programs. 

Interestingly, the program offers credits and courses needed for the “Child Program Administrator Credential (CPAC) offered by New York State Associate for the Education of Young Children.” The graduates are eligible to submit their portfolios for CPAC credentials. If you want to enhance your position as childcare director, you can use this associate degree, one-year early childhood teaching experience, and CPAC credentials. 

Above all, the early childhood administration degree aims to prepare students for administrative, supervisory, and management roles in both public and private educational setups. If you want to open your child care center to serve children and their families, this program will give you enough expertise and knowledge to practice in these setups. 

The curriculum of this 2-year program is designed in such a way that students will complete 24 credits in childhood education, including 175 hours of student teaching and 30 hours of classroom observation. Additionally, students are required to complete 18 credits in childhood administration, including a 90-hour internship period working as an administrator in childhood settings. 

If you meet the Hudson Valley Community College’s eligibility criteria, you can begin the application process to take a step closer to your journey! 

Borough of Manhattan Community College- Associate of Science in Child Care/Early Childhood Education

Borough of Manhattan Community College offers an Associate program in early childhood education and child care for people who love spending time with young learners and influencing their development. Through this program, you will learn about activity and program planning for children from toddlers to grade school. 

With the core of Liberal Arts in the curriculum, the Associate of Science program offers two career pathways, including Pre-school/Early Elementary and Infant Toddler. In both these pathways, the coursework covers skills and knowledge required to prepare students for assistant teacher roles in Head Start, child care, nursery, public and private elementary schools, and pre-kindergarten programs. 

Interestingly, this college has many articulation agreements with high-ranked institutes offering 4-year programs to allow you to continue your education there. You can further discuss your transfer plan with your student advisor by visiting the campus or contacting online. 

If you are occupied during the daytime and weekdays in other programs or commitments, the college offers this Associate program in evenings/weekends format. You can attend your classes and complete the assignments exclusively on evenings and weekends. Moreover, the college also offers career coaching to graduates for employment and job placement information, job postings, and many more. Begin your journey today at BMCC!

Bachelor’s Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education 

New York University – Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education 

Indeed, the Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education program at New York University is a critical investment for anyone passionate about working with young children and wanting to impact their lives positively. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to work with young children in a variety of childhood settings.

Undeniably, the best part of the program is that the students will learn about curriculum design and assessment, including how to create developmentally appropriate activities and assessments that meet the needs of young children. In addition, students will take courses in special education, including how to work with children with disabilities and create inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all children. 

To be eligible for this program, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the university’s admission requirements. The demand for qualified early childhood educators is growing, and graduates of this program are well-positioned to take advantage of the many job opportunities in teaching, childhood centers, and advocacy.

Overall, this tremendous program at New York University is an excellent choice for students to learn about the intricacies of child development and effective teaching methods. So, avail the opportunity to study at New York University! 

Queens College- Bachelor of Arts Major in Childhood Education

Queen College, well-known for providing high-quality education, offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education tailored for individuals who wish to pursue their career in this field. The program has been planned to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for New York Initial Endorsement in Early Childhood Education.

The program is designed for Queen’s College undergraduates who aspire to build a career in early childhood education. Undergraduates from other colleges easily get the opportunity to join this program with minimal eligibility requirements. The program mainly focuses on early childhood literacy, educational psychology, childhood development, inclusive education, and social and emotional development.

To obtain New York State’s (NYS) initial Certification in Childhood Education, students must choose general education courses aligned with NYS’s criteria for early childhood teachers. The program requires students to maintain a GPA above 2.5 throughout all the semesters and spend at least 100 hours of group work with children. 

There’s a plethora of career pathways for graduates of this bachelor’s program with higher job placement rates. Whether you want to become a preschool teacher, curriculum planner, childcare giver, or administrator, the coursework of this program will develop enormous skills and expertise in their students. 

Monroe College- Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Monroe College, a renowned institution in the Bronx, New York, offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S) in early childhood education for individuals seeking a career in this field. The program equips students with hands-on learning experiences to develop the skills and expertise required to deal with children from infants to age eight. 

The college provides adequate scholarship opportunities for eligible students. New York State Education Department Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II)” (offers teaching profession scholarships) is providing the opportunity to Monroe College qualified candidates for B.S. in Early Childhood Education to earn this scholarship. 

General enrollment requirements include application fee submission, high school completion evidence, application for admission, personal statement submission, and a GPA of C+ or higher in high school. This 120-credit hour program’s major courses include the foundation of Education, literacy practicum, creative arts, curriculum development, and methods. 

Once admitted to the program, you will be assigned a mentor who will support you in gaining practical experience and clarifying any doubts in the field. Additionally, the program offers internship opportunities to enhance your skills before graduation. It ensures higher job placements for the graduates of Monroe College. 

The City University of New York- Bachelor’s  in Early Childhood Education

The City College of New York offers a variety of programs, including a Bachelor in Early childhood education, which focuses on preparing students for a prosperous career in early childhood education. The program is committed to guiding candidates in exploring teaching pedagogies, assessment techniques, expectations, curriculum, research, and resources that will assist the students in shaping their careers in early childhood education. 

This program consists of three groups that are early childhood education courses, liberal arts co-courses, and pathways general education; together, these provide you with comprehensive knowledge to develop essential skills to teach, mentor, and nurture young children. Every year, the School Of Education offers scholarships to City College of New York’s students who meet their specific eligibility criteria. 

The University also provides financial assistance to deserving students. The program’s major requirement is an admission test with a passing score of 57; students can attempt the test three times only, a minimum of 2.8 GPA, professional dispositions, course work requirement, and lastly interview. Get yourself ready to enroll in this program! 

Pace University- Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Pace University presents a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education planned for students aspiring to excel in this field. Along with the bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, students will earn an Initial Teaching Endorsement after completing this program.

The program equips students with a virtual reality classroom simulator to provide students with real-teaching experience. The program is designed to offer teaching experiences while completing your undergraduate degree. You will get the opportunity to participate in the university’s Center for Professional Development Program (CPD), where you will bring your theoretical knowledge into practice. You will develop a professional relationship with your batch mates, mentors, instructors, etc, as a CPD candidate. 

Interestingly, 96% out of 100% of graduates of this program get the opportunity to work with Pace University Career sources. The program is highly respected nationwide, and students majoring in early childhood education gets an opportunity to specialize in a 30-credit concentration in subjects such as English, mathematics, biology, or history. 

These concentration options are available on both campuses, allowing students to choose their preferred area of focus. The program demands completion of 120-123 credit hours. Visit the official website, and begin the admission process today!

Master’s Degree Programs In Early Childhood Education 

Baruch College- Master of Science in Education- Early Childhood and Elementary Education

Pursuing a Master of Science in Education (MSED) in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at Baruch College is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about teaching and working with young children. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to become certified teachers for grades birth to 6 in New York State. 

The program is designed to prepare students to become effective and compassionate educators. With a focus on child development, curriculum design, assessment, and classroom management, students have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. The program also provides students with hands-on experience through field experiences and student teaching, allowing them to apply what they have learned in real-world settings.

Students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to be eligible for this program. They must also meet the university’s admission requirements, which include submitting an application, transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Graduates of this degree are prepared to become certified teachers. They may work in public or private schools, teaching various subjects to elementary school students. They may also choose to work in educational administration or pursue further education in a related field.

Overall, the Master in Education in early childhood/elementary education at Baruch College is an excellent choice for students to acquire their professional interests. With its focus on hands-on experience, rigorous curriculum, and experienced faculty, this program ensures to provide students with successful professional growth.

Columbia University- Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education: Initial Certification

Columbia University is ranked 6th among the top universities in the world according to the resource US News and World Report Best University. At Columbia University, highly anticipated educational degrees such as Masters in Arts (M.A.) in early childhood education prepare students to skillfully address critical issues the children face in their early childhood through pedagogical, political, psychological, and sociological perspectives.

The university integrates fieldwork and coursework side by side, allowing students to practice in research-informed ways. Graduates are intellectually well prepared to pursue their careers professionally in this field. Moreover, most of the graduates of this program qualify to become childhood practitioners, administrators, professors, authors, and leaders.

The university’s curriculum integrates early childhood education and bilingual education content. The university assures special education to differently-abled children, making it superior to other universities. Masters at Teachers College Columbia can prepare initial certificate students to become highly efficient childhood teachers, interventionists, early childhood particular education professors, decision-makers, and leaders. 

Apart from this, the university tends to offer full-time and part-time options; it is also mandatory for students to engage in one semester of full-time student teaching. Keeping theoretical studies in practice as a top priority, the university has introduced programs like Masters in childhood education that allow students to participate in curricular and extracurricular activities, which serve as a foundation for the fundamentals of learning and development. 

The masters of arts program of the university emphasizes collaborations with professionals and skillful individuals who have a solid vision regarding the importance of progress in early childhood education. Begin your journey today. Columbia University awaits you! 

Bank Street College of Education – Master of Education in Early Childhood General Education

Bank street college of Education offers a master’s degree in early childhood education for young and passionate teachers with the primary objective of ensuring students’ progress. The program aims to prepare the students to tackle critical situations the young ones face in early childhood. Moreover, the college emphasizes students’ physical and psychological upbringing in the early training years. 

The college ensures that students sufficiently learn and practice child’s physical, cognitive, psychological, and emotional development and how academics and educational practices influence them. The way Bank Street College of Education promotes interactive classroom learning and practical exposure is immensely appreciated. 

Moreover, it assures that students gain coherent and systematic knowledge through engagement in social ethics, literature, sciences, history, and mathematics rather than conventional study techniques. This 45-credit-hour Master’s program comprises an extensive curriculum distributed over the course of two years. 

The college provides a rolling basis application process that allows you to apply throughout the year; despite this, you still have to apply in advance before the semester begins.

Some prerequisites include a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above in an undergraduate program aptitude for completing graduate-level coursework and academics. 

Long Island University Hudson- Master of Science in Education in Childhood Education

Long Island University Hudson is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education and a broad selection of programs, ensuring that students receive a valuable educational experience. It offers a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Childhood Education designed to prepare students to become certified teachers for grades 1-6 in New York State.

This program is focused on developing students’ knowledge and skills in areas such as child development, curriculum design, assessment, and classroom management. Students are provided opportunities to engage in field experiences and student teaching, providing them with hands-on experience in real-world classroom settings.

Students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to be eligible for this specific program. They must also meet the university’s admission requirements, which include submitting an application, transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Overall, the program provides an amazing journey for students to nurture their teaching methods, child development, and professional growth. This program will surely enhance students’ knowledge and skills to succeed as certified teachers in New York State.

P.H.D Degrees in Early Childhood Education

Teachers College, Columbia University- Doctor Of Education in Early Childhood Education or Early Childhood Education Policy

If you want to become an early childhood mentor, enrolling at Columbia University’s Doctorate program would be the best option. Columbia University offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Early Childhood Education or Early Childhood Education Policy that is designed primarily to prepare students to become leaders in early childhood education, focusing on policy, research, and practice.

This degree is designed for students interested in pursuing academic, research, or policy careers. The program’s curriculum focuses on developing students’ knowledge and skills in child development, curriculum design, assessment, and leadership. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research and work closely with faculty members who are experts in the field of early childhood education.

To be eligible for the Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education or Early Childhood Education Policy at Columbia University, students must have a master’s degree in education or a related field. They must also meet the university’s admission requirements, which include submitting an application, transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Graduates of this program are prepared for various careers in academia, research, policy, and practice. They may work as education professors, researchers in think tanks or government agencies, or policy analysts for educational organizations. They may also work as consultants or advocates for early childhood education or education policy.

New York University- Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Concentration in Early Childhood and Childhood Education

New York University offers a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Concentration focusing on Early Childhood and Childhood Education. This program is designed to give students a deep understanding of the theories, research, and practices underlying effective teaching and learning in early childhood and elementary education. 

The program’s curriculum is interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, and education. Students will take research methods, curriculum design, assessment, and pedagogy courses. They will also have the opportunity to engage in independent research and work closely with faculty members who are early childhood and elementary education experts. 

Graduates of the program are eligible for a variety of careers in academia, research, and policy. They may work as education professors, researchers in think tanks or government agencies, or policy analysts for educational organizations.  

Overall, the Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Concentration focusing on Early Childhood and Childhood Education at New York University is an excellent choice for students passionate about advancing early childhood and elementary education through research, policy, and practice.

Early Childhood Education Degrees in New York- Online

Here’s our list of institutions offering online degree options in early childhood education within the state!

Associate Degrees in Early Childhood Education

Monroe Community College- Online Associate of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Early Childhood Education

Online associate-liberal Arts and Sciences in Early Childhood Education at Monroe Community College and State University in New York is the best option for those individuals aspiring to build a teaching career in this field. This fully-online program provides a flexible learning mode for students too occupied with their professional commitments. 

This 61-65-credit hour program’s basic coursework includes an introduction to the teaching profession, developmental psychology, mathematics for elementary teachers, and childhood development and health issues. 

The program will equip you with indispensable skills and mentorship for hands-on learning and an exceptional teaching experience. You will get exemplary training from proficient faculty while working directly with children for better practicums. MCC’s dual-admission agreements and extensive collaborations will entice you to move into Bachelor’s program without any delays. 

The program provides professional skills and adequate knowledge for teaching preschool to grade second children. It also provides individualized academic advisors to all the students to clear their doubts and offers a blend of traditional hybrid and online courses to accommodate your schedule. 

The field of early childhood education can be fascinating and offers a thrilling pathway with a broad spectrum of job opportunities, including elementary school teacher, special education teacher, parent liaison, preschool teacher, kindergarten teacher, and many other rewarding careers. Get yourselves ready to enroll in this amazing program!

Borough of Manhattan Community College – Associate of Science in Early Care/ Early Childhood Education

Online Associate in Early Childhood Education and child care at Borough of Manhattan Community College can be very exciting for those individuals who derive joy from interacting with young children. Enrolling in this program will give you crucial skills and knowledge to pursue a career in fostering and developing young children.

The program offers two distinct areas of study: Early elementary and infant toddlers. Both pathways equip students with the essential ability and skills needed to pursue a career as an assistant teacher in various childcare sectors. The program incorporates a comprehensive set of Liberal Arts courses and specialized courses in Early Childhood Education and child care.

The program provides flexible learning schedules; students can complete it in the evening and on weekends without interrupting their professional commitments. The graduates of this program are well-positioned to work as assistant teachers, Nannies, childcare workers, elementary school teachers, and many more rewarding careers. 

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

St.John’s University- Online Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education (1-6)

St.John’s Univesity provides an exciting online Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education, which permits teachers with initial certification to teach grades 1-6 in New York State. The university ensures that students get countless opportunities to work with diverse children in underrepresented areas right from the program’s start. 

Moreover, St.John’s University students are guided in navigating the program and certification requirements throughout the curriculum. You can also go for honors-level courses with the chance to work with world-class faculty on various research projects in your areas of interest. The university also offers its students brilliant opportunities like studying abroad on scholarships, including a complete semester in Rome. 

The coursework includes 39 credit cores comprising philosophy, liberal arts, and theology courses. Additionally, elementary education students also need to complete a 39-credit interdisciplinary core comprising science, social studies, mathematics, and foreign language. Interestingly, they offer free online applications for countless undergraduate programs and a lesser cost for most graduate programs. Visit the official website, 

Master’s Degree In Early Childhood Education

Fordham University- Online Masters of Science in Teaching

Online Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) at Fordham Graduate School of Education equips aspiring educators/mentors with an initial teaching endorsement. The program aims to provide the students with the techniques and strategies for classroom success, primarily focusing on the child’s emotional and academic growth. 

There’s a huge list of tracks in the M.S.T. program, so you can align your degree with the specific age group of children you want to teach from birth till grade 6. Some of these tracks include:

  • Early Childhood Education Track: This track prepares students to teach children from birth through grade 2. You will explore and learn various early childhood models, incorporating play as an advantageous teaching technique and creating inclusive and diverse classrooms.
  • Early Childhood Special Education Track: It aims at teaching children in special or general education from childbirth through grade 2. You will explore teaching theories and develop socio-economic development and behavior management skills. 
  • Childhood Education Track: This track prepares educators to teach children from grades one to 6. The coursework comprises a well-rounded curriculum, highlighting instructional practices, child development, and professional studies. 

Conclusion

New York State has been unleashing the potential of young children with a high-quality education in this field for decades. Childhood education professionals and expert faculty are working hard to thrive in the field of early education to influence young lives positively. 

We have enlisted a huge range of well-known institutes, both public and private universities or colleges, in the state of New York, offering a variety of programs in early childhood education. You have to choose the university wisely and begin your learning journey!

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Early Childhood Education Degrees in Other States