For more information about the MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership Program:

Email: policyleadershipma@earlychildhoodny.org
Phone: (646) 664-8283

Launch Term: Spring 2026

The online MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership at CUNY SPS is designed for current and aspiring early childhood professionals who want to shape the systems, programs, and policies that impact young children and families. This program prepares graduates to become leaders, advocates, and decision-makers in the growing field of early childhood education policy and administration.

As one of the few graduate programs in the U.S. focused specifically on early childhood policy and leadership, this master’s degree equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experience to:

• Lead early childhood organizations and systems
• Influence policy development at the local, state, and federal level
• Advance equity and inclusion in early learning
• Drive program quality and family engagement

This 30-credit program is offered fully online in an asynchronous format, allowing working professionals to balance career, life, and graduate study. Students engage with peers and faculty through dynamic discussions, applied projects, and community-based learning opportunities.

Students choose between the following two tracks:

• Early Childhood Public Administration: For students interested in obtaining an interdisciplinary perspective to early childhood policy and leadership
• Children’s Program Administrator Credential: For students interested in obtaining NYAEYC’s (NY Association for the Education of Young Children) CPAC Credential

Program Highlights

• 100% online MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership
• Two graduate certificates embedded in the degree (Early Childhood Policy and CPAC)
• Designed for professionals working in early childhood education, policy, or advocacy
• Taught by leading scholars and practitioners in early childhood and public policy
• Opportunities to connect learning to real-world challenges in NYS, NYC, and beyond
• Can be completed in 2 years (part-time option available)
• If you hold an “Initial” Teacher Certification, the master's degree can be used to meet the graduate-level coursework requirement to attain “Professional” Certification

18 credits of the program are approved for the NYSAEYC CPAC Credential.

What You’ll Learn

Students explore topics such as:

• Early childhood systems and governance
• Policy development and implementation
• Budgeting and resource management
• Leadership in diverse communities
• Research, data, and evaluation methods

Graduates are prepared to influence the future of early childhood care and education, whether in government, nonprofit, or educational settings.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership are qualified for a range of roles, including:

• Policy analyst or advisor
• Education or childcare advocate
• Government or nonprofit program manager
• Director of early childhood initiatives

This master’s program supports pathways to leadership in early childhood education and advocacy for young children and families.

Who Should Apply

This program is ideal for:

• Early childhood educators, administrators, and site leaders
• Advocates working in policy, social services, or public health
• Professionals from community-based organizations and city agencies
• Individuals with a bachelor’s degree who want to lead change in the early childhood sector

Applicants should have experience in early childhood education or related fields.