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MA in Teaching

Early Childhood & Elementary Education

Earn Your Master of Arts in Teaching in 18 Months

Columbia International University’s Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood & Elementary Education equips aspiring Christian educators with the knowledge and skills to excel in early childhood and elementary settings. This program prepares graduates for initial state licensure recommendation in South Carolina for elementary education (grades 2–6) with an early childhood add-on (PreK–3rd grade), as well as certification through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

Designed for flexibility, the program allows students to start in the fall or spring and complete their degree in four full-time terms or at their own pace. This structure supports working professionals and those balancing other commitments. Through practical training, faith integration, and hands-on experiences, students develop as effective Christian educators who create dynamic learning environments. With dedicated faculty and a Christ-centered approach, CIU’s program empowers future teachers to make a lasting impact in the lives of their students. The program fosters both personal and professional growth, providing the tools needed to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.

Location

Campus

Next Start

May 5

Credit Hours

44

Cost Per Credit Hour

$635

College

College of Education

Accreditation

ABHE, ACSI HEAP, SACSCOC, SCDE

Quick Links

Career Opportunities

  • Public or Charter School Teacher
  • Christian School Teacher
  • International School Teacher
  • Child Development Center Teacher
  • Afterschool Program Director
  • Daycare Program Director
  • Private Tutor
  • Homeschool Cohort Teacher
  • Church Childcare Director
  • Academic Interventionist
  • Children’s Ministry Leader
  • Mercy Organization Educator
  • Christian Education Consultant
  • Curriculum Specialist
  • School Administrator
  • Guidance Counselor

Teach Near & Far

The MA in Teaching in Early Childhood & Elementary Education is approved by the state of South Carolina for teacher education. South Carolina has reciprocal agreements with most states, meaning that certification obtained in South Carolina can be transferred to another state.

Lead in Different Communities

This program is designed to prepare students to teach in a variety of contexts, including public schools, Christian schools, private and charter schools, and international schools.

Qualified & Certified

Graduates of the program meet the qualifications for certification through the Association of Christian Schools International. This means that graduates are prepared to teach in Christian schools both in the United States and abroad.

Meet the Faculty

Course Preview

Here is a glimpse at a few of the courses you will be taking in this program.

For a full list of courses related to this program, visit the Academic Catalog:

EDU 5603 - Instructional Practices for Literacy and Technology

Emphasizes instructional strategies, technology, and curricular support for literacy development in reading and writing. A focus is placed on emergent literacy and addressing the diverse needs of learners. This course is integrated with a practicum as part of a 12-credit hour South Carolina Read to Succeed requirement.

EDU 5604 - Methods of Teaching Math and STEM

Surveys STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles with a focus on math instruction. Emphasis is placed on designing developmentally appropriate, inquiry-based instruction for early childhood and elementary learners. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.A.T. program or program director approval.

EDU 5810 - Students with Diverse Needs

This course will expose students to various areas of exceptionality including definitions, incidence, and educational needs. Regulations governing the education of the disabled, options of serving special needs, and the modification of regular classrooms to accommodate exceptional children will be studied. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.A.T. program or Program Director approval.