In the early childhood special education (ECSE) program, you'll prepare to teach young children, birth through age six, with a variety of developmental delays and disabilities. You'll leave the program with the skills to: identify the need for early intervention, provide research-based services to children and their families in their home, school, and community settings, and, ultimately, help children and families successfully transition to kindergarten.
Rated #9 in the nation among special education graduate programs by U.S. News & World Report in 2019
Graduates of the ECSE licensure program:
All classes are offered in the evening to allow students to maintain full time employment while completing course requirements. Most courses are taught in person on the Minneapolis campus. Some online classes are available.
The ECSE licensure program with a MEd in Special Education requires the completion of about 45 credits. For completion of a MEd only without licensure, 30 credits are required, with opportunities to select courses suited to your interests. Your total number of required credits may vary based on previous educational experience or areas of licensure.
Download a sample plan of an ESCE course schedule.
Note: This plan is an example only. You'll work with your advisor to develop a couse schedule specific to your needs.
Visit the College of Education and Human Development's Finance and Funding page for information on tuition.
Special education scholarships, fellowships, and awards
College of Education and Human Development awards
Visit OneStop Student Services for more information on available financial aid.
"My experience in the Early Childhood Special Education program was extremely beneficial for my professional development. I found the faculty and staff in the department to be extremely helpful and the program itself prepared me well for a career as a licensed ECSE teacher."
Program staff special education
acvegell@umn.edu | 612-626-0367
Academic advisor