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Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education Specialist (Endorsement)

Program Overview

Prepares early childhood educators to become specialists in special education to meet the unique educational needs of young children with and without developmental disabilities. This pathway leads to becoming a classroom teacher or a specialist supporting classroom teachers.

What you'll learn

University of Colorado Denver’s MA in Early Childhood Education with an Early Childhood Special Education Specialist endorsement prepares early childhood educators to meet the unique educational needs of young children with and without developmental disabilities. This pathway will give you an additional credential for professional success. As a special education specialist, you will be prepared to lead an inclusive classroom yourself in a teaching role, or support teachers from within the specialist role.

This program emphasizes inclusive, family-centered practices, culturally sustaining teaching and a curriculum that is inspired by the potential of all children and families.

We prepare highly competent professionals who are leaders and advocates known for embracing the whole child in inclusive, culturally and linguistically diverse settings.

Our highly ranked and flexible ECE programs of study feature personalized support that will reach you wherever you are – throughout Colorado or around the world. Our master’s plus ECSE endorsement students learn how to use evidence-based strategies that enhance the learning outcomes of young children. Students receive specialized training in instruction, assessment, family involvement and positive behavior support.

The School of Education & Human Development is regularly ranked as a top graduate school and “best online” experiences by U.S. News & World Report.

CU Denver is committed to increasing the number of highly qualified and well-compensated early professionals in the field. We offer ECE scholarships and vast learning and development opportunities to support early childhood teachers and leaders.

Graduates of this program have fulfilled all the requirements for the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) license to teach children, birth through age eight, and the Colorado Human Services director qualification requirements to manage and direct early childhood public and private programs.

Choose CU Denver's School of Education & Human Development

The School of Education & Human Development at the University of Colorado Denver attracts students who are passionate about careers in education. We match their passion with an education that is rooted in diversity, technology, proven approaches and real-world practice. That’s why our graduates are prepared to make immediate and life-long impacts on people, communities and the world.

Program Description

What you'll learn

University of Colorado Denver’s MA in Early Childhood Education with an Early Childhood Special Education Specialist endorsement prepares early childhood educators to meet the unique educational needs of young children with and without developmental disabilities. This pathway will give you an additional credential for professional success. As a special education specialist, you will be prepared to lead an inclusive classroom yourself in a teaching role, or support teachers from within the specialist role.

This program emphasizes inclusive, family-centered practices, culturally sustaining teaching and a curriculum that is inspired by the potential of all children and families.

We prepare highly competent professionals who are leaders and advocates known for embracing the whole child in inclusive, culturally and linguistically diverse settings.

Our highly ranked and flexible ECE programs of study feature personalized support that will reach you wherever you are – throughout Colorado or around the world. Our master’s plus ECSE endorsement students learn how to use evidence-based strategies that enhance the learning outcomes of young children. Students receive specialized training in instruction, assessment, family involvement and positive behavior support.

The School of Education & Human Development is regularly ranked as a top graduate school and “best online” experiences by U.S. News & World Report.

CU Denver is committed to increasing the number of highly qualified and well-compensated early professionals in the field. We offer ECE scholarships and vast learning and development opportunities to support early childhood teachers and leaders.

Graduates of this program have fulfilled all the requirements for the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) license to teach children, birth through age eight, and the Colorado Human Services director qualification requirements to manage and direct early childhood public and private programs.

Choose CU Denver's School of Education & Human Development

The School of Education & Human Development at the University of Colorado Denver attracts students who are passionate about careers in education. We match their passion with an education that is rooted in diversity, technology, proven approaches and real-world practice. That’s why our graduates are prepared to make immediate and life-long impacts on people, communities and the world.

CU Denver graduates earn more, build community, and make connections. Take the first step toward your future and join an inclusive community of learners while gaining the skills of tomorrow, today.

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