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Early Childhood and Special Education, M.Ed.

Why Choose a M.Ed. at Roberts?

A Master’s degree from Roberts Wesleyan University in Early Childhood and Special Education offers an excellent advantage. With a profound need for teachers in the early childhood classroom today, many young children benefit from coaching and early intervention.

Early Childhood programs require trained educational professionals who offer positive behavior support, supporting students with grace and patience. If you want a teaching license that allows you to be a part of community organizations that support children, childcare centers for learners with special needs, and the formulation of new alternative learning programs, a master's degree is an essential asset.

Our Early Childhood and Special Education master's degree equips baccalaureate graduates with evidence-based practices and field experiences they can use in early childhood classrooms and intervention programs.

The Early Childhood and Special Education program consists of four terms for full-time study or seven terms for part-time study. Students can complete courses in a hybrid format. Half of the courses in the program are provided asynchronously online and the other half are face-to-face courses that meet at the Roberts Wesleyan University main campus.

Want more information about this program?

Download a program guide with detailed information on cost, courses, and outcomes

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Teaching is more than imparting knowledge; it is inspiring change. Learning is more than absorbing facts; it is acquiring understanding.

William Arthur Ward

Education Programs Online & In Rochester, NY

What will you learn?

  • Leadership Grounded in Integrity: Our graduate and professional programs are designed to develop your leadership skills to be effective in your field, grounded in ethical decision-making and integrity. Make a positive impact in your workplaces and communities.
  • Education Beyond Skill Development: We focus on educating the whole person. Professional competencies are paired with a strong emphasis on character and purpose, empowering you, an adult learner, to excel in your career as a principled leader with transferable skills. We provide education for what's next.
  • Values-Driven Curriculum: Our courses integrate core values like compassion, ethical responsibility, and community engagement, essential qualities for working adults aiming to lead with purpose in today’s challenging environments.
  • Becoming a Trustworthy Leader: We prepare graduate students to be trusted professionals. We’ll help you foster ethical workplace cultures and build strong, collaborative teams based on character, empathy, and respect.
  • A Foundation for Positive Change: Our programs will help you change more than just your job title, it’ll help you change your community. A Roberts education will help you contribute to meaningful change and lead with a higher sense of mission and service.

Cost of Early Childhood and Special Education, M.Ed.

Total Program
Sticker Price:

$38,925

Less than

26%

of students 
pay this amount

25%

tuition discount for benefit-eligible 
employees, spouses, and dependents 
of our corporate partners

Coursework

Interested in seeing what courses you can take? Check out our course catalog!

What the teacher is, is more important than what he teaches.

Karl Meninger

Admissions Requirements

Requirements:

  • Writing Sample - Please attach an essay of 300-500 words explaining why you are seeking admission to this program. Include how this program will help achieve your personal and/or career goals.

  • Resume - Please attach a one page professional resume highlighting your professional experience. Please include teaching, coaching or mentoring experiences.

  • Transcripts - One official transcript from all colleges/universities attended. (Minimum G.P.A. 3.0.) A transcript review by an Admissions Counselor is required to determine if any additional classes are needed for enrollment.

  • Recommendations - Two professional recommendations needed.

Not required:

  • Entrance Exam (GRE/GMAT)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have received a bachelor's degree in a field other than education but would like to obtain your initial and professional certification to teach, the Early Childhood and Special Education, M.Ed. program is for you.

Students enrolled in the program will gain the knowledge and skills needed to teach in general and special education settings. The program is designed for post-baccalaureate students seeking a Master of Education degree leading to initial and professional certification.

Yes, the Early Childhood and Special Education, M.Ed. at Roberts Wesleyan University is fully accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), ensuring that it meets rigorous quality standards. Our accreditation demonstrates a commitment to delivering a high-quality educational experience that supports your professional development and career goals.

The Early Childhood and Special Education program requires the completion of the following workshops, tests, and seminars before earning a New York State certification:

  • 150 hours of field experience
  • 14 weeks of student teaching practicum
  • Certification exams
  • State mandated safety workshops

Careers

  • Teacher

Employers

  • Rochester City School District
  • Charter Schools
  • Public Schools
  • Private Schools

The Initial Certification in Early Childhood with Special Education program is designed for candidates holding a bachelor's degree in a field other than education. Students enrolled in the program will gain the knowledge and skills needed to teach in general and special education settings. The program is designed for post-baccalaureate students seeking a Master of Education degree leading to initial and professional certification.

Questions?

Meet Your Enrollment Representative!

Justin Pretko
Assistant Director of Admissions

Virtual Open House

October 22, 6PM

Free Virtual Info Session