Master of Science in Leadership and Policy in Early Care and Education
This program is designed for practitioners in the early childhood field. Students prepare for results oriented leadership roles as changes agents in child care programs, private and public schools, and policy and professional organizations. Students strengthen necessary skills in interpersonal communication, supervision, finance, policy analysis and program development and evaluation.
Program Specific Courses/Experiences
Leadership and Policy in Early Care and Education is distinguished from the other leadership program by the following:
- A practicum site placement that is usually at a child care center, a policy-making organization or policy advocacy center. Other types of options are possible.
- A course on managing centers.
- An organizational case study experience that is relevant to the background and interest of the student.
- Selection of 6 credits of electives that can address the particular interest of students.
For a detailed list of courses, please go to the graduate section of our catalog in .pdf and click on School of Education and Child Life: Leadership, Policy and Administration.
Certification
Upon completion of this program, graduates are eligible for the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care Director of Child Care Center licensure.
Practicum Experiences
Each student in this program engages in at least one 200-300 hour practicum, gaining valuable real-world experience in their field as part of the academic experience. The practicum will be in a setting that enables you to gain hands-on experience in your focus area.
For more information on graduate field placements, please visit the Field Experiences Website and click on FAQ for Graduates.
FAQs
Q: How many credits is this program?
A: 36 (includes coursework and practicum credits)
Q: When can I enroll in this program?
A: In this cohort program, all students will enroll in and
begin the program in the fall semester (September).
Q: Do I need to be a full-time student to participate in
this program?
A: No. The program is designed to enable working students
to take two courses a semester ( half-time). Students who wish to do
the program full-time can add an elective to their schedule for a third
course.
Q: How many hours is the practicum?
A: From 200 to 300 hrs.
Q: Can I use my current job for my practicum?
A: Yes, with the approval of your advisor and the Wheelock
Field Experience Office.
Q: Is there an opportunity to be paid for my practicum?
A: Yes, some practicums are paid positions. You will discuss
this opportunity with your advisor when planning your practicum.
Q: Do I need experience working with children to qualify
for admission to this program?
A: Yes, applicants must demonstrate at least two years of
experience working with children and families.
Q: Do I have to interview for admission to the program?
A: Yes, interviews are required for this program. If you would
like to schedule an informational or formal interview, contact the
Office of Graduate Admissions at graduate@wheelock.edu or
call (617) 879-2206 (toll-free (800) 734-5212).
Q: What will I need to submit if I apply to this program?
A: A graduate
program application, a 3-5 page essay, a copy of your resumé,
copies of your academic transcripts and 3 letters of reference. For
full details of required admissions materials visit our Graduate
Admissions site.
Applying to a Wheelock College Graduate Program
Go to our application process web page to find out more on how to apply to this program.
If you have any questions about this program, other graduate programs at Wheelock College, or about applying to Wheelock College, contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at graduate@wheelock.edu or call (617) 879-2206 (toll-free (800) 734-5212), or visit the Office of Graduate Admissions Web Site.
