The M.S. in Early Childhood Studies program allows students to deepen their understanding of child development and learning, and effective programs and practices, as well as explore current issues and trends. Students will learn to become skillful communicators, team members, relationship-builders, and collaborators with families, colleagues, and agencies. Knowledge gained regarding equity and inclusion will help students to become advocates for social change in the field of early childhood.

Note: The M.S. in Early Childhood Studies program is offered in two different learning modalities: the course-based modality and the competency-based modality, Tempo Learning®. The information on this website pertains to the course-based modality only.

Field experiences are a rich and important part of the program. Students gain guided practice and experience as they learn how to promote play, creativity, individual growth, exploration, discovery and healthy child development. Students are challenged to develop meaningful learning experiences and analyze assessment processes.

Field experience requirements are outlined in the Field Experience Handbook and in the Field Experiences FAQ document.

Students will be required to complete field experiences at the infant/toddler level, and at the PreK or K – grade 3 levels. There are 3 courses that contain field experiences: EDUC 6104, EDUC 6107, and EDUC 6109.

Students are responsible for finding their own field experiences during the program and must plan ahead to ensure that their field experiences are secured prior to beginning any course with an associated field experience. Students may share a Letter of Introduction (see below) with potential field sites, as needed.

During EDUC 6101, students must submit proof of professional liability insurance and a completed COVID 19 Acknowledgement of Risk form to their online classroom and also email them to ECSfield@mail.waldenu.edu. Students may need to renew their professional liability insurance during the program to ensure coverage throughout all field experience courses. See the Field Experience Handbook for more information on the professional liability insurance requirement and suggested professional organizations that offer discounted coverage to student members.

Students are required to read the Field Experience Handbook. The handbook contains the program goals, student support services, policies, key information for field experiences, and resources.