Skip to main content
teacher playing blocks with toddlers

Early Childhood Education

We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Generous Scholarships Available

Online Learning Options

Teach the School Year Following Enrollment

Program Overview

Few careers give people the opportunity to impact individuals and their communities like teaching.  Can you think of a specific teacher who made a difference in your life?  Would you like to become that kind of teacher?

The first years of a child’s life are the most formative and impactful. Warner will prepare you to become an innovative early childhood educator, committed and able to help all your students learn and grow.

Our teacher preparation programs offer the shortest path to New York State initial and professional teaching certification. If you want to complete the master’s program leading to initial teaching certification full-time in 15 months, you must start the program in the summer. 

Key Program Features

  • Meets all coursework and internship requirements for both initial and professional New York teaching certification: In addition, you will need to pass the required state exams and complete the teaching requirements for professional certification.
  • Shortest program:  Preservice teachers can complete the program in 15 months of full-time study (if starting in summer); certified teachers seeking additional certification in early childhood may require less time.
  • Focus on Early Childhood (certifying in B-Grades 2) and Elementary Education (certifying in Grades 1-6): Includes two courses focusing on young children’s learning and development as well as elementary methods courses in each of the four core content areas; all internships are taken concurrently with at least one of these courses.  
  • Focus on teaching all students: Includes courses on diversity, students with disabilities, and English language learners; these required courses may be transferred in for certified teachers.
  • Option to add specializations: With only a few additional credits required, you can pursue additional state certification to also teach up to 6th grade or in inclusive classrooms, or advanced certificates that can strengthen your effectiveness with diverse learners and make you more marketable.

Prerequisites (as required by NYS)

  • Undergraduate degree in a liberal art (BA) or science (BS)

Scholarships, Tuition, & Financial Aid

Partnerships and Career Pathways

Questions?

Degree & Certification Options

I want to obtain a master's degree leading to initial and professional New York State teaching certifications in early childhood education.

MS in Early Childhood Education (Birth to Grade 2)

I want to obtain a master's degree leading to a professional certification in early childhood education.

  • Additional prerequisites: initial certification in early childhood education

MS in Professional Study: Early Childhood Education (Birth to Grade 2)

To add an additional content area certification, refer to that content area page

I want to obtain a master's degree leading to a professional certification in my original subject area and my early childhood education professional certification.

  • Additional prerequisites: initial certification in a subject area other than early childhood education and 30 credits in early childhood education

MS in Early Childhood Education: (Birth to Grade 2)

I want to learn how to teach early childhood education, but I am not seeking a New York State teaching certification.

  • For those interested in teaching early childhood education in learning environments other than NYS public K-12 schools (e.g., independent, private or charter schools; community colleges; professional or technical schools; colleges and universities outside of the United States; or other more informal settings

MS in Early Childhood Education (Non Teacher Certification)

I want to add an additional New York State certification for as few as three additional credits.

  • Additional prerequisites: a master’s degree; can be completed concurrently

Advanced Certificate in Inclusion Early Childhood Education (Birth to Grade 2)

I want to add early childhood as a second New York State certification.

  • Additional prerequisites: a master’s degree; can be completed concurrently

Advanced Certificate in Early Childhood Education (Birth to Grade 2)

Customize Your Degree

Our degrees are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to add an advanced certificate or specialize in a distinct area of emphasis, we can help craft the best option for you.

We welcome applications on a rolling basis. The next priority application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Contact Admissions

Request Information

Receive a $70 application fee waiver when you complete the form below.

Loading...

Take a Course Before You Apply

Take a course before you apply to one of our programs for a discounted price. Inquire with admissions to learn about credits that also apply toward degree requirements.

Related Degrees

Start Your Application