Master's Degree in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master’s program in interdisciplinary early childhood education is perfect for individuals who are passionate about supporting the development of young children through a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. Graduates often pursue careers as early childhood educators, curriculum developers, or child development specialists, specializing in areas such as inclusive education, family support, and early childhood policy.
Program Overview
The Interdisciplinary Early Childhood (IEC) MEd program prepares educators for leadership roles in schools, programs, and systems that serve children, birth through age five, with and without disabilities and their families. Graduates are awarded the MEd degree in Education with a major in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood. In the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood program, students will build upon their skills as active, critical consumers of research and are expected to consume and produce research that will inform their practice. At this advanced level, students are expected to reflect not only on matters within the classroom context, but also on systems such as schools, families, communities, and policy. Through engaging students in a variety of learning experiences, including field-based experiences, professional literature, and conducting research, the M.Ed. program prepares graduates to build upon their leadership skills so they are prepared to actively engage in their chosen professions as agents of research-based change.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students
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Fall
- 07/15/2025
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Spring
- 10/15/2025
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Summer
- 03/15/2026
International Students
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
