The UWM Early Childhood Special Education program prepares teachers to provide special education services in infant/toddler, preschool or primary settings. It emphasizes multicultural, family-centered and interdisciplinary preparation. Successful completion qualifies students to be eligible for an early childhood special education teaching license (Wisconsin DPI 809 license - ECSE 0-8yrs).

The Early Childhood Program will prepare graduates to:

• Provide services for young children with special needs and their families, emphasizing culturally and linguistically diverse populations
• Work in home agencies and public school settings
• Participate as a team member in early childhood programs
  
• Collaborate and consult with professionals from other disciplines and agencies in supporting children and families
  

The program is a post-baccalaureate program leading to the Wisconsin Early Childhood Special Education certification. The program offers two options:

• For individuals with certification in Early Childhood Education
• For individuals without prior certification in Early Childhood Education

Both can lead to a Master's Degree in Exceptional Education with certification in Early Childhood Special Education or a master's degree with an individually designed program of study without certification.

AdmissionThe program is a cohort model with rolling admissions, therefore students may apply throughout the academic year. To be admitted to the Early Childhood Special Education program students must meet requirements for admission to

• The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (see advising)
  
• The Department of Exceptional Education (application packet)

Early Childhood ResourcesThe Early Childhood Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification is a part of the UWM/MPS Internship Program. The UWM/MPS Special Education Internship Program is an innovative program that prepares teachers to provide special education services at the early childhood, middle or high school level.

The Early Childhood Research Center (ECRC) is a place on campus that is dedicated to advancing the welfare of young children and their families in urban settings through research and the exchange of knowledge.