Program Overview
Credits: 43 credits for initial certification; 37 credits for professional certification
Our graduate program in Early Childhood and Special Education is designed for dedicated professionals who want to make a difference in the lives of young children. As a student of the program, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills to meet initial and professional New York state teacher certifications in both early childhood education and students with disabilities from birth to grade 2.
This Master’s program helps current teachers earn professional certification in New York state, meet the qualifications for promotion or salary increase, or specialization within the field. Our program also creates a pathway for non-teaching professionals who are looking to pivot into education. Our graduates find success as teachers, leaders, or developmental specialists in a variety of early childhood and educational settings.
Flexibility
Our program is 100% online and allows you to take course offerings at your own pace to accommodate your schedule. Practicum hours may also be fulfilled within the workplace.
Experiential Learning
Gain hands-on experience with placements and practicums inside early childhood and special education classrooms.
Personalized Expert Instruction
All of our faculty members have extensive experience in leadership roles and bring their lived experience and practical knowledge to the classroom.
During my [time] at Niagara University, I learned so much from my professors and enjoyed small classes that allowed me to connect with my peers and deeply engage in the content and concepts. I am incredibly grateful to Niagara University for helping me to obtain my current position by preparing me to succeed in the interview and job search process, and to work meaningfully and effectively in my subsequent career.Hannah Benson, ‘15, M.S.Ed. Special Education Teacher, Niagara/Orleans BOCES
Discovery Awaits
What You’ll Study at Niagara University
You will learn how to assess and evaluate student progress, make appropriate student accommodations, and deliver individualized instruction tailored for each student’s educational needs. Our program will develop your ability to become constant agents of positive change while working effectively through a variety of settings, situations, and personalities.
Our Master’s degree program will also prepare you to meet the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) standards for advanced programs.
Find Your Best Self
Knowledge, Experience, and Skill Development
Assess and evaluate student progress
Adapt and accommodate to student needs
Prepare to be certified
Prepare to Soar
Academic, Experiential, and Career Pathways
Careers
Special Education Teacher
Early Childhood Education Director
Developmental Specialist
Childcare Services
Family Services
Accreditations
Ready to Apply?
Filling out an application is easy!
NU offers rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks. What’s stopping you?
Apply Now