Are you looking to plan a career in early childhood education? Washington, DC, is ideal for anyone interested in furthering their education as it offers many great opportunities. With its proximity to major universities and various educational institutions offering degree programs, it can take time to choose the best one.
Here, we’ll help you narrow your choices by providing valuable information about the various early childhood education degrees in Washington, DC. After completing a degree program from these institutions, we’ll discuss curriculum standards, expected outcomes, and possible career options. Whether you want to specialize or teach children younger than five or work with infants and toddlers through kindergarten-level courses – there is something suitable for everyone!
On-Ground Early Childhood Education Degrees in Washington D.C
Here is a list of on-ground early childhood programs in Washington, D.C.
Associate Degrees Programs in Early Childhood Education
University of the District of Columbia Community College- Associate of Arts in Education
An Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education is a program that equips students with an understanding of young children’s developmental needs. The University of the District of Columbia Community College offers an Associate of Arts in Education that comprises coursework, practicum experiences, and field experiences to help students build a career in this field.
This two-year program requires completion of 63-64 credit hours and includes various courses related to child development, family studies, early childhood education, nutrition, health care administration, educational psychology, and others. The practicum and field experiences need at least 12 credit hours for completion. These help students gain practical experience in classrooms with young children.
Besides, this program also prepares students for certification and licensure from the State Board of Education. On completion, graduates are qualified to teach in preschools and can work in other educational fields, such as daycare centers and home-based care facilities. With its comprehensive approach, the Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education is the best choice for individuals looking to enter this field and begin their career in Early Childhood Education path.
The Catholic University of America- Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Early Childhood Education
The Associate in Arts program at the Catholic University of America in Early Childhood Education provides students with a valuable learning opportunity, offering six courses covering General Education, Professional Theory and Practice, and Electives. Those who complete the requirements for this degree will receive a grade of C or better in each course and have achieved a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
In addition, they will have demonstrated competency in the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards and participated in field experiences that provide hands-on experience in early childhood settings. Upon completing this degree, graduates will be eligible to apply for national and state credentials related to Early Childhood Education.
Graduates of this program have a strong understanding of child development, health and safety, curriculum and instruction, family engagement, assessment and observation, professionalism, and career development. They can apply these skills to a variety of early childhood settings. Upon completion of the degree, students can pursue a career as an early childhood educator or administrator confidence.
Trinity Washington University- Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Early Childhood Education
The Associate in Arts program in Early Childhood Education at Trinity Washington University is a comprehensive program of study for aspiring early childhood educators. This program includes 39 credits & divided into five categories: Foundations of Early Childhood Development, Curriculum Planning, Assessment & Evaluation, Professionalism & Program Administration, and Field Experience.
Upon completing the program, students will earn an Associate’s degree, which will equip them with the knowledge and skills to be successful early childhood educators. In addition to coursework, they must complete a capstone project and field experience, such as an internship or practicum, to gain more practical experience.
Through this comprehensive program, students learn about the theory behind early childhood education and gain practical experience through internships and other fieldwork. It gives them an advantage when finding employment after graduation, as they will have the qualifications and experience required for many early childhood positions.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
The Catholic University of America- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Early Childhood Education
The Catholic University of America offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a meaningful career. The degree requires students complete 120 credit hours, including courses in child psychology, curriculum development, early childhood education methods, language arts instruction methods, and early childhood education policy.
Students must also complete a professional development course to meet graduation requirements. In addition, students may choose to take electives in areas such as nutrition science, multicultural studies, child health and safety, parent-child relations, and more. The program typically takes four years to complete.
Upon completing the degree program, students are prepared to pursue various positions in early childhood education, ranging from teaching in preschools and daycares to working as an assistant teacher or school administrator.
Graduates also have the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees in areas such as early childhood special education, applied child development, and child advocacy. The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from The Catholic University of America will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials to make a difference in children’s and young people’s lives.
Howard University- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education
At Howard University, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education program is designed to prepare students for a successful career as an early childhood educator. The program requires the completion of at least 120 credit hours, with a minimum of 42 credits in professional education courses and 30 credits in content courses related to elementary education.
In addition, all students must complete an internship experience before graduation. The program emphasizes the importance of high-quality instruction, providing students with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach young children in various classroom settings. Course topics include early childhood education theory, curriculum development, educational technology, assessment and evaluation strategies, special needs education, and multicultural education.
Through their coursework, internships, and field experiences, students learn how to be effective teachers who can create a positive learning environment for their students. In addition to the core classes in early childhood education, the program also offers courses focusing on child development theory and Practice.
These courses cover cognitive development, social-emotional development, language acquisition, literacy skills development, and family systems. Through these courses, students understand a child’s development stages and how to support their learning best.
Trinity Washington University- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Early Childhood Education
At Trinity Washington University, a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education requires completion of 120 total credit hours. The curriculum includes coursework focusing on the development of children from birth through eight years of age. It covers growth and behavior, assessment, language and literacy, educational technology, early intervention strategies, family involvement, child advocacy, and diverse learning environments.
Additionally, students must complete field experience hours at early childhood centers or schools. Students who wish to declare the major at Trinity Washington University must meet certain academic criteria and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.3 in all Early Childhood Education courses.
After meeting these requirements, they are eligible for the degree program, which typically takes four years to complete. Graduates with this degree are prepared for various professional roles like Early Childhood Education, Family Support and Education, and Child Development.
They also have the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees in related areas. The University also offers minors in Early Childhood Education and Child Life Studies and Post-Baccalaate Certificates for those who have already earned a Bachelor’s degree but wish to increase their knowledge within the field. All students are provided with individual academic advising that ensures they meet the requirements to graduate on time.
American University- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Elementary Education
The Bachelor’s degree program in Early Childhood Education at American University allows students to prepare for careers as teachers, counselors, or administrators working with children from pre-K through 8th-grade level. This program provides an understanding and appreciation of childhood development and the unique needs of young learners in a stimulating, supportive environment.
To qualify for admission to the program, students must have completed at least 60 hours of college-level credits with a GPA of 2.5 or above. In addition, applicants must complete several required courses in early childhood education and be recommended by an academic advisor before being accepted into the program.
Once admitted, students take a variety of coursework focusing on the foundations of childhood education, educational psychology, curriculum development, and assessment techniques.
This program also includes a field experience component that allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting under the supervision of an experienced teacher or administrator. Upon completing the program, graduates will have acquired the necessary skills and credentials to pursue teaching licensure.
Master’s Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
George Washington University- Masters in Early Childhood Special Education
George Washington University offers a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education that focuses on preparing students to work as teachers and leaders in preschool, pre-kindergarten, or other early childhood programs. The program comprises 36 credit hours and is designed to be completed within two years. The degree focuses on teaching methods, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and educational research.
Course topics include Early Childhood Development, Instructional Strategies for Early Childhood Education, Social & Emotional Foundations of Early Childhood Learning, Inclusion Strategies in Early Childhood Education, Language & Literacy Development in Young Children, and Leadership for Early Childhood Programs. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to early childhood education through relevant professional experience and previous academic success.
Applicants must also meet the University’s admissions requirements, such as completing a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a personal essay.
Students receive support and training through practicum experiences in multiple settings, including public schools and non-profit programs. Graduates are prepared to pursue advanced degrees or become certified teachers in public and private schools and can qualify for management positions in early childhood education.
American University- Master in Arts in Teaching
At American University, the Master’s Degree program in Teaching is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful early childhood educators. The coursework focuses on fostering learning and development in young children from infancy through age eight or nine. The program offers courses in child development and its theories, curriculum design, supporting learning through relationships and play, assessment practices, collaborative partnerships with families and communities, child health and safety, and other related topics.
In addition to coursework, the program also includes a practicum or internship requirement to gain practical experience in the field. It can range from observing students in a classroom to teaching them directly. Successful completion of the program results in a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, enabling graduates to pursue positions as teachers, administrators, and other professionals who work with young children
Admission to the program requires at least a bachelor’s degree in an education-related field and typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Prospective students can contact the university for more information on admission requirements, tuition and fees, course offerings, internship opportunities, and any other questions related to the program.
Gallaudet University-Master’s Degree Program in Early Childhood Education Deaf Education
At Gallaudet University, students can pursue a specialized master’s degree program focusing on the special needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing infants and young children. It enables students to gain knowledge on how to teach these children, as well as develop appropriate communication strategies for them.
The courses offered are designed to help students expand their skills and knowledge of language, literacy, and social and behavioral development. The program consists of four semesters, and 36 credit hours are required for completion. The courses include Introduction to Deaf Education, Language Acquisition and Development in Young Children with Hearing Loss, Communication Strategies for Early Childhood Special Education, Applied Child Psychology in Deaf Education, and more.
In addition to classroom coursework, students can complete an internship in a deaf education setting. Students are required to complete a capstone project before graduating from this program. It’s is an opportunity for them to apply their skills and knowledge acquired through the coursework and gain hands-on experience in working.
Ph.D. Degrees in Early Childhood Education
George Washington University- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Special Education
The Ph.D. program in Special Education at George Washington University offers a comprehensive and intensive curriculum designed to produce graduates with the skills and expertise necessary to work effectively in educational environments with young children.
This doctorate program covers child development, family engagement, instruction methodology, assessment techniques, research methods, and leadership strategies for addressing educational issues. Students can also specialize in various areas, such as early childhood literacy, mathematics, and science instruction. This University allows students to pursue the research-based study of special education issues across diverse contexts, including individuals from multiple cultural backgrounds and different ages, development stages, ability levels, and learning styles.
This program offers courses covering assessment, instructional design and strategies, curriculum development, educational technology, collaborative teaching practices, and evidence-based interventions. Students can also pursue a research emphasis within the program to specialize in areas such as early childhood literacy or mental health.
The duration of this program is three years full-time or four years part-time. Students must follow specific rules and regulations throughout the program to graduate successfully. Students should also note that this degree requires at least 60 credit hours.
These two programs provide a great opportunity for those interested in pursuing an advanced degree in education-related fields such as early childhood or special education. Both programs offer comprehensive curriculums that allow students to gain knowledge and skills in relevant areas.
Additionally, the rules and regulations are straightforward, and the duration of the program is manageable. Therefore, these two Ph.D. degree programs are ideal for those who want to become experts in their field and contribute to advances in education-related fields.
Howard University- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Psychology
Howard University’s Ph.D. in Educational Psychology focuses on developing the skills necessary for advanced teaching and research practices in early childhood education. The program combines coursework, field experience, and dissertation research to prepare graduates for successful careers as educational researchers, policymakers, and teachers of young children.
The curriculum includes courses such as child development theory; Assessment and Evaluation; curriculum planning, development, and Implementation; research techniques and Design; socio-cultural issues in early childhood education; contextual issues in early childhood education; family systems theory and Practice. Students will also complete a comprehensive exam, field experience hours, dissertation proposal writing, and a dissertation defense.
In addition to completing the required courses, students must adhere to rules and regulations. These include maintaining a 3.0 GPA, submitting all assignments by the due date, attending all classes and activities, meeting with faculty advisors regularly, following university policies regarding academic integrity and student conduct, and completing the comprehensive exam within four years of beginning the program.
To complete the Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education program at Howard University, students must complete at least 72 credits. These credits are broken down into 48 credits of coursework and 24 credits for the dissertation. The program typically takes four years to complete, although some students may take longer or shorter depending on their circumstances.
Online Early Childhood Education Degrees in Washington D.C
Unfortunately, Washington D.C. does not offer online associate and bachelor’s degree programs. However, you can pursue master’s and PhD courses online. Here’s a detail of them!
Master’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education
American University- Master in Arts (M.A.) in Teaching
The American University’s Master in Arts (M.A.) in Teaching online degree program is designed to prepare individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an Early Childhood Education leader or administrator.
This course consists of 36 credits spread over three semesters, offering a range of courses such as:
- Curriculum Development for Early Childhood Educators
- Administration and Supervision in Early Childhood Settings
- Leadership and Ethics
- Advanced Practice in Early Childhood Education
The program also allows students to develop a professional portfolio demonstrating their early childhood education expertise. The online course is entirely self-paced, meaning you can complete your degree at your own pace without worrying about deadlines or due dates.
It is an ideal option for individuals who can only commit to a part-time degree program due to work or family obligations. Furthermore, the online degree course is flexible and affordable, so you don’t have to worry about added costs or expenses. You can even take the courses more than once without having to retake them if needed, which makes this an ideal option for individuals who wants to gain additional knowledge in the field.
Overall, this degree program is a great opportunity for individuals to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective Early Childhood Education leader or administrator. The self-paced nature of the course makes it accessible to anyone with access to an internet connection and a computer, making it easier than ever for individuals to earn their degree in Early Childhood Education from the comfort of their homes.
George Washington University- Online Master in Arts (M.A.) in Early Childhood Special Education
George Washington University offers an online Master of Arts in Early Childhood Special Education. The program is designed to prepare educators for the challenges of teaching young children with special needs. The degree comprises seven core courses, three electives, and a culminating project or thesis.
Courses cover family-centered early intervention, evidence-based interventions, and early childhood special education assessment. Students can also complete a field experience, which provides hands-on opportunities with children. The program is designed to last two years and requires 36 credits for completion. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or University in any major and must submit official undergraduate transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Additionally, applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and a minimum GRE score of 290. Accepted students may be eligible for merit-based scholarships and awards to help cover tuition costs. Upon completion, graduates will possess the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize early childhood developmental delays, design individualized intervention plans and provide meaningful educational experiences for children with exceptionalities.
Graduates are also prepared to pursue administrative roles or continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral program. This degree provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as early childhood special educators, preparing young children for lifelong success. With this program, students can learn how to effectively respond to today’s ever-changing education landscape and navigate the unique needs of each child while focusing on their strengths.
Ph.D. Degrees in Early Childhood Education
George Washington University- Education Specialist in Educational
The George Washington University’s doctorate program offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary course of studies that combines theory, research, and practice to prepare scholars for careers as leaders.
Students can choose from two concentrations – Early Intervention/Child Development or Curriculum & Instruction. The curriculum explores educational leadership, child development, program evaluation methods, research design, and more.
The admissions process for the Ph.D. degree in Early Childhood Education is rigorous. It requires a minimum of an earned master’s degree from an accredited college or University, competitive grade point averages (GPA) on all completed graduate coursework, at least one year of full-time teaching experience with children ages 3 to 5 years, and satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Once admitted, students must complete courses and research projects to earn their degree.
The total program duration is typically two to three years full-time. Students enrolled in this program gain expertise in topics related to early childhood education, including but not limited to child development, curriculum design, educational leadership, family engagement and support, program evaluation methods, research design, and social foundations of education.
As part of the curriculum, students can also choose from several elective courses to further customize their learning experience. Upon completing the program, graduates will be well-prepared for professional roles in academia or policy-making settings. The George Washington University’s Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education allows students to increase their knowledge and become leaders in early childhood education. With a combination of theory, research, and Practice, this program prepares graduates for success in future roles as educators and scholars.
Conclusion
The Washington D.C. area presents a huge spectrum of Early Childhood Education Degree opportunities from Associate to Ph.D. Whether you want to study on-ground or online, the options are plentiful, with various universities and institutions offering specialized courses tailored to individual needs and interests.
Not only do these programs help start your career on a successful path, but they also provide an opportunity to become part of a larger growing network of educational leaders contributing greatly to the overall well-being of our society. So take your time; more thoroughly investigate the various degree offerings in early childhood education in Washington, DC, and join this endeavor!