College of Education and Human Development

Early Childhood General and Special Education: Birth through Kindergarten, MA

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Overview

Are you ready to shape the future, one child at a time? The master of arts in early childhood general and special education: birth through kindergarten (BK) program in Western Michigan University's College of Education and Human Development, provides a powerful pathway to do just that. This isn't your typical education degree; it’s an immersive, interdisciplinary experience that blends the best practices of early childhood education and special education. You'll dive deep into child development, learn to build strong relationships with diverse families and communities, and master the art of both general and special education. The curriculum is designed to prepare you to meet the unique needs of every child, from birth through kindergarten, and to foster their social and emotional growth.

Upon completion of this dynamic program, you'll be eligible for an initial Michigan Standard Teaching Certificate with a ZN endorsement or an additional ZN endorsement in early childhood general and special education. This gives you the credentials to make a real difference, whether you're working in a classroom or a specialized care setting.

Note: Candidates that hold the ZA (Birth- Age 8), ZG (K-5 All subjects; K-8 All Subjects Self-Contained Classrooms), or ZO (PK-3rd grade) endorsement and would like to add the ZN endorsement can opt to do so via the graduate certificate program. Please note that the graduate certificate program does not lead to a M.A. degree.

Meet Aysia

Looking to help students in the classroom who face challenges, Aysia joined the program to learn about best practices in the field.

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Why apply?

Professional learning and experience: An interdisciplinary program structure that anchors professional learning and experience within the disciplines and best practices of early childhood education, family science and special education
Dedicated faculty: Committed interdisciplinary team of faculty readily available to students
Experience-Driven Learning: Multiple clinical experiences with young children, including a final semester internship in inclusive early childhood/early childhood special education classrooms
Engage with the field: Valuable networking and professional development opportunities through student and community organizations
TEACH Early Childhood® Michigan eligible: This program's eligibility is a significant benefit because it means you may be able to receive financial assistance to help pay for your education. Learn more.

Program of Study

You’ll begin with foundational courses on child development theories and early childhood special education, learning how to support children with diverse needs. As you progress, you’ll explore essential subjects like math and science for young children, infant-toddler development, and literacy acquisition. The program also emphasizes the crucial role of families and communities, teaching you how to build strong relationships and engage with parents. You’ll put your knowledge into practice with a graduate field experience and a final internship, ensuring you’re fully prepared to step into a professional role as a highly qualified teacher and advocate for children.

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Endorsement information

Candidates that hold the ZA (Birth- Age 8), ZG (K-5 All subjects; K-8 All Subjects Self-Contained Classrooms), or ZO (PK-3rd grade) endorsement and would like to add the ZN endorsement can opt to do so via the graduate certificate program. Please note that the graduate certificate program does not lead to a M.A. degree.

Graduate certificate webpage

Admission requirements

To learn about admission requirements, please visit the Graduate College's webpage.

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Cost & funding