Early Childhood Education FAQs

Yes, CSP Global’s M.A. in Early Childhood Education is  CAEP–accredited . The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accreditation ensures programs meet rigorous national standards for educator preparation. This accreditation enhances degree credibility among employers and school districts. Many states and school systems prefer or require degrees from accredited programs for teaching licensure and leadership positions. 

Your first step is to complete the online application, and then prepare your high school or college transcripts, if applicable. See the How to Apply page for more information.

Yes, Concordia University, St. Paul accepts up to 50% of program credits toward the master’s in early childhood education online. If you’ve completed relevant graduate coursework at another regionally accredited institution, you may transfer those credits. The university reviews transfer credit requests during the admissions process. To maximize your transfer potential, submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions . Transfer credits must meet CSP Global’s academic standards and appropriate grade requirements. 

To be admitted to CSP Global’s online Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education program, you need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The program prefers candidates who are currently employed or regularly volunteering in education with children. You’ll need to complete a free online application and submit official transcripts documenting your bachelor’s degree conferral. Learn more on the admissions requirements page.  

While teaching experience is not strictly required for admission, CSP Global prefers that applicants are employed or regularly volunteering in educational settings with children. This preference exists because the program builds upon practical experience, allowing you to immediately apply what you learn. If you work as a teacher’s aide, preschool assistant, or in similar roles, you will meet this preference. However, the admissions team evaluates each application holistically, so those with strong academic backgrounds and genuine interest should still apply. 

No, CSP Global does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission to the online M.A. in Early Childhood Education program.  

This degree program opens diverse career pathways. You can advance into leadership positions such as preschool director, early childhood program coordinator, curriculum specialist, or education consultant. Many graduates become lead teachers in preschool through third-grade classrooms or transition into Head Start programs and private early learning institutions. Learn more about roles you can pursue on the program careers page.  

No, this is not specifically designed as an initial teacher licensure program. It is an advanced degree program designed for professional development and career advancement.  

Yes, this program includes a capstone as well as an additional thesis capstone option if desired.  Learn more about the requirements on the courses page for the online early childhood education master’s degree program. 

The M.A. in Early Childhood Education program at CSP Global is structured primarily as an advanced academic program with a preference that students are currently working or volunteering in educational settings with children. This design allows your workplace to serve as your practical learning laboratory. Rather than requiring separate practicum placements, the program enables you to apply course concepts directly to your current professional environment. You’ll complete assignments and projects that connect theory to practice, drawing on professional experiences for case studies and reflections. 

CSP’s program stands out through its career-connected curriculum taught by industry-experienced faculty. The program balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, allowing you to immediately implement what you learn. The Christian liberal arts education guided by Lutheran principles provides a values-based perspective. At just $395 per credit hour, the program is significantly more affordable than many comparable programs. Combined with $2,000 partnership scholarships and financial aid options, CSP Global makes graduate education accessible. The 100% online format  creates a supportive learning community nationwide. 

Yes, this program is 100% online, allowing you to complete all coursework from anywhere with internet access. You never need to visit campus for classes, or exams. This fully online format provides maximum flexibility for working educators and busy professionals.  

The program’s 30 credit hours can be completed in 1.5 years. However, your transfer credits will vary the time it takes you to complete the degree.

The program can be completed in approximately 1.5 years (5.5 semesters) when pursued part-time. The program consists of 30 credit hours delivered through 10 courses and is specifically designed for working professionals. The asynchronous online format allows you to complete coursework during evenings, weekends, or whenever your schedule permits. You should expect to dedicate approximately 15-20 hours per week to coursework. Most students continue working full-time throughout their studies, often applying new knowledge directly to their current positions. Your actual completion time may vary based on transfer credits and course load. 

This program costs $395 per credit hour. Since the program requires 30 credit hours for completion, your total tuition investment is $11,850 but cost can vary based on accepted transfer credits. Beyond base tuition, you should budget for textbooks, course supplies, loan fees,  and all other typical expenses related to education. CSP Global offers several ways to reduce costs including scholarships, financial aid, and military benefits.  

Yes, CSP Global is approved for GI Bill benefits and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, making it possible for eligible veterans and service members to use education benefits toward the online master’s in early childhood education.  Visit the military benefits page to learn more about payment options.