The MS in Early Childhood/Childhood Education from the University at Albany leads to the M.S. degree needed for New York professional teacher certification in the area of Childhood Education 1-6 (NY certification option) or Early Childhood Birth-2 (NY certification option), or for a Master's degree in any state (non-NY certification option). For both degree options, the required 30-credit coursework is the same. 

This program is intended for teachers who already have initial certification. In either an online or campus-based format, the program focuses on responsive teaching and empowerment for students and teachers. 

Newly revised in 2013, the coursework brings together current research and policy to prepare teachers to teach children from grades 1-6 or Birth - grade 2. Coursework addresses the key components of literacy and content areas instruction, including literacy development, children's literature, science, mathematics, social studies, writing instruction, literacy engagement, strategic literacy instruction, assessment, data-based decision making, critical literacy, family partnerships, and the Common Core Standards. Initial teaching certification in Childhood Education or Early Childhood is required for admission into this program. If you are interested in obtaining your literacy certification, please consider the MS in Literacy degree.

US News and World Report ranks the online graduate education programs at the University at Albany 2023 Best Online Graduate Education Programs in the nation