Master of Arts in Education/Early Childhood Education

The Master of Arts in Education (MAED) with a specialization in Early Childhood Education is a graduate degree program preparing candidates for teacher licensure in the field of early childhood. Candidates for this program have already earned a bachelor's degree and wish to gain the pedagogical skills and knowledge that will assist them in becoming competent and effective early childhood educators. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood.

Student teaching is an integral component of the Early Childhood Education Program. It provides students with a field-based experience in an early childhood setting. Student teachers work with a cooperating teacher and with a University of Phoenix faculty advisor. The student teaching experience is designed to emphasize the achievement of state standards leading to certification and to present individuals with growth opportunities that best prepare them to assume the duties of a certified teacher.

Throughout the program, students are required to complete a minimum of 100 hours of verified field experiences. The focus of each observation will relate to specific course content. Documentation will be maintained in the student's professional portfolio.

The degree program has a research component and requires an Action Research Project. All project work integrates the theoretical aspects of education and the practical experience of the adult learner through the identification and exploration of a significant problem related to the student's area of professional responsibilities and interest.