Central Michigan University

MA in Elementary Education: Early Childhood (Optional ZA – Early Childhood Endorsement)

The MA in Elementary Education: Early Childhood endorsement is designed for elementary teachers and administrators interested in specialized study of research and methodology used in teaching the preprimary or primary grades (kindergarten through third grade). The student and his/her advisor will develop a program that includes examination of the developmental characteristics of learners of this age period and the design of curricula to foster learning and growth.

Degree Requirements:

To qualify for graduation, candidates for the Master of Arts in Elementary Education degree must meet a residency requirement and demonstrate significant scholarly ability. This demonstration will typically involve the development and completion of a thesis or the completion of a comprehensive written examination at the end of the individual’s coursework.

The residency requirement is fulfilled by taking at least 12 semester hours on the Mt. Pleasant campus or in a CMU off-campus course taught by a Teacher Education and Professional Development tenure or tenure-track faculty member.

The program requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of credit for the Plan A (thesis) option or a minimum of 33 semester hours of credit for the Plan B (capstone seminar) option.

Course descriptions can be found under the Graduate Bulletin.

At least one-half the credits earned toward the degree must be taken at the 600 and 700 levels. All credits must be completed in the seven-year period immediately preceding the granting of the degree.