Apply: Graduate Programs in Early Childhood Education

MEd Early Childhood Education - Initial License

The MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed for those who wish to qualify for an initial license as an early childhood teacher in Massachusetts public schools.

Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.

MEd Early Childhood Education - Advanced Studies

The MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed for either 1) individuals with prior experience in early childhood (such as a teacher or director in a community-based, private, or public early childhood or out-of-school time (OST) setting seeking further professional development in the field, or 2) individuals who already hold an initial license in Early Childhood Education who, with requisite experience as a teacher of record, wish to qualify and apply for a professional license from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.

Early Childhood Education - Initial Licensure Only

The Initial Licensure Only program is designed for individuals seeking an initial license and/or training in early childhood education, but not a degree.

Graduate Application Process

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Required Materials

$50 non-refundable application fee
Official transcript from all institutions attended demonstrating a minimum final grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale in your bachelor's degree
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a major in the arts, sciences, or an interdisciplinary arts/science major; OR at least 24 credits above the introductory level in arts and science courses, with at least 12 credits in one academic area.
- If you attended an institution outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation from one of our approved agencies is required.
- If your undergraduate final grade point average falls below the minimum stated, please contact Graduate Admissions.
Two references, professional and/or academic
Statement of purpose; appropriate length is about 500- to 1,000 words, or two to three pages double-spaced.
- Address what factors in your personal and professional history have influenced you in the past and now lead you to seek admission to this program at Salem State.
- Write about long-term professional goals, and how this program will help you meet them.
- Discuss any other information you think would help the admissions committee evaluate your application.
English Proficiency, if applicable for international applicants

Deadlines

Applications accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed once complete. View final deadlines on our “Graduate Application and Deadlines” page.

The master of education in early childhood education initial licensure, master of education in early childhood education advanced studies and licensure-only early childhood education programs do not support students in F or J status (accurate for the 2026-2027 academic year).

Contact the Center for International Education or Graduate Admissions with any questions.