Early Childhood Education

Nurture young minds and shape futures as an early childhood educator.

The Early Childhood Education Program at George Mason prepares graduates to work with young children, their families, and communities, in in a variety of learning environments. This degree prepares graduates to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Who is this degree for?

Our students come to us with varied experiences and interests. This program includes options that lead to Virginia licensure in Early/Primary Education PreK-3 and Early Childhood Special Education, Birth-Age 5. Upon graduating, students pursue careers in the following areas:

• Prekindergarten, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grade Teachers
• Special Education Teachers (Birth–Age 5)
• Birth-Age 3 Early Interventionists
• Early Head Start/Head Start Teachers
• Early Care and Education Teachers
• Family Child Care Providers
• Specialists for Museums, Organizations, and Associations

"I am thankful for the program as it has given me a safe space to make mistakes and grow from them. I went through first-hand experiences in curriculum instruction, ongoing assessments, and creating deeper connections to foster student-centered learning. Because of this, it has allowed me to become the best in my current roles as a second-grade teacher, as I teach aspiring young leaders, and the proud president of the Asian Educators Association (AEA), as I elevate the voices of those who are historically underrepresented in impactful conversations. I am honored to represent GMU as I continue to be a leader who prides herself in finding equity for students, families, and communities within FCPS." - Tori Huynh '20

Why study early childhood education at George Mason?

• 15% discount for Virginia educators
• Flexible modality: students can attend online, hybrid, or in-person, part-time or full-time. We continuously work to meet students' course schedule needs.
• Strong alumni network
• World-class faculty at an accessible cost
• Virginia’s largest and most diverse university
• Semester-long, off-campus internship experience working directly with or on behalf of young children and their families 
• Participate in, engage in, and conduct research alongside faculty across the programs
• Network with professional organizations to create connections, learn about advocacy opportunities, and stay informed about current trends and developments in the field

Students have the opportunity to work with organizations such as the Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children (DEC), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and the Northern Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children (NVAEYC).