UW-Whitewater | Online
Improve your present and ensure your future. Improve your present and ensure your future.

    Improve your present and ensure your future.

    Apply Now

    Online Master of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education Policy

    Become a Change Agent.

    Due to recent workforce shifts during the global pandemic, early childhood educators have emerged as an essential resource, and there exists a dire need for early childhood education advocacy in the larger legislative and education policy arena. With the Early Childhood Education Policy program, students will learn the essential interdisciplinary insights necessary for successful cross-sector collaboration to address early childhood education system solutions. Through study in this program, students will become policy leaders ready to work with schools, non-profit organizations, governmental agencies, advocacy groups, and institutes of higher education to focus on inclusion and support for all children and families. The 30-credit program is designed for both professionals and recent college graduates who aspire to advance their careers through a focus on policy studies.

    Why UW-Whitewater Online?

    • Asynchronous program lets you learn day or night
    • Build connections through online assignments and discussion boards
    • Affordable tuition

    Fully Online

    No requirements to come to campus.

    Flexible

    Complete courses asynchronously and part time.

    Specialized

    Enhance your career and expand your knowledge.

    Online Master of Science Education in Early Childhood Education Policy

    Kurt Rose, types away on his laptop for online class

    The MSE in Early Childhood Education Policy is a 30-credit program. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you. Full-time students can finish in as little as three semesters.

    For a comprehensive overview of the program structure and required courses, please refer to the Graduate Catalog

    Claire Olsen, intently reading tablet, reviewing notes for online class

    To qualify for admission to the online master’s program, you must have minimum GPA of 2.75 overall undergraduate GPA or 2.90 in last half of undergraduate degree or 3.0 in graduate level coursework and meet graduate admission criteria.

    Deadlines vary by term and are subject to change without notice. Accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines can be found on the graduate admission deadlines website.

    Additional requirements for admission to the Early Childhood Eudcation Policy program:

    • Upload a personal statement (2-3 pages) describing the reason behind your decision to pursue this degree, your short- and long-term career goals, and the value you believe you will add to the learning experience of your fellow students. 

    All requirements can be submitted during the application process.

    If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please email us to determine if you could be admitted on a contingent basis.

    International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for information and assistance.

    Nicole Pierre, jotting down notes while reading at home

    Early Childhood Education Policy professionals with advanced credentials are in high demand. Just a few positions and organizations are listed below.

    Positions:

    • Analyst
    • Research Associate
    • Teacher Educator
    • Director
    • Counselor
    • Agency Liaison

    Organizations:

    • Schools
    • State and National Associations (NAEYC)
    • Governmental agencies
    • Advocacy groups
    • 2 and 4 year Higher Education Institutions
    online student, Ellen Larson, studies course materials

    This graduate program at UW-Whitewater are a superior value at $595 USD per credit for the 2024-25 academic year — whether you are a Wisconsin resident, an out-of-state student, or an international student within the major. Non-major classes are charged at the standard resident/non-resident level. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.

    Course materials
    Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.

    Financial aid

    Students enrolled in a graduate certificate program only are not eligible for federal aid. 

    Students completing a certificate with a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.

    Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need.

    Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in.

    You can also fill out a request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.

    UW-Whitewater business student poses for a photo shoot.
    Tour UW-Whitewater

    Intersted in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually.