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Join a community of early childhood leaders and professionals.

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We provide a supportive and intimate learning environment for our students.

— Ashley Curry, Dean of Students; Associate Clinical Professor
Why Choose Erikson? (3:03)
Video: Experience Erikson Institute’s Culture.

The Graduate School For Early Childhood Professionals

A trusted and respected institute for nearly 60 years.

At Erikson Institute, we share your passion for children’s wellbeing. Come learn with a community of educators, social workers, and researchers committed to creating a more equitable future for all children.

Embark on Your Early Childhood Degree Path

Dedicated to the student experience. Your experience.

Choose a graduate school committed to your success.

TALK TO AN ADVISOR

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Personalized Experience

With faculty and staff who know your name and story, Erikson Institute delivers a personalized graduate school experience.

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No GRE Required

You are more than a number. We take a holistic view of your story, working with you to build tomorrow’s future early childhood leaders.

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Whole-Child Focused

Our passion for understanding the complex nature of children, who are after all people, connects us.

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Rich Community Partnerships

Centered in Chicago, Erikson partners with numerous community organizations to ensure the latest research and services reach those in need.

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Strong Career Opportunities

Your degree is the beginning of a journey — yours. With an Erikson Institute graduate degree, a rewarding and secure future awaits.

A Holistic Approach to Early Childhood Graduate Education

Our diversity is our strength.

And our students, alumni, faculty, and staff represent an abundance of perspectives and cultures that will deepen your learning experience, making you more effective in your professional practice.

Share your story with us, and enrich both your peers and practice. At Erikson, you’ll find the stories that resonate, offering new opportunities for the children with whom you work.

Find Out How to Apply

Hear from Our Alums

Julissa Banzon
Julissa Banzon
MS Child Development 2003
“ The name Erikson goes so far. Alumni are kindred spirits. They guide and mentor each other. It’s a lifelong gift. ”
Natalie Sehgal, Erikson Institute alumnus.
Natalie Sehgal
Online MS Early Childhood Education 2022
“ Coming to Erikson has given me a different lens on how I approach children and families—more awareness about the impact of my words and the respect in my intentions as I work to support all families from various cultures, upbringings, philosophies, backgrounds. ”

By the Numbers

356
Enrolled
37
Median Age
3 .84
Average GPA

Attend an Upcoming Early Childhood Admissions Event

Meet an alum or current student, and ask your biggest questions at our next Erikson event.

See All Upcoming Events

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Today is the Day

Start Your Application Today

Let’s build a world where children have better futures. That future begins here.

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Take the Next Step Towards Your Early Childhood Degree

Ready to learn more?
Need help taking the next step?

Find out what you need to submit your application, and learn about the wealth of resources and support available to prospective and current students.

Ask Admissions a Question

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Start gathering the documentation you need for your application.

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Find out what to expect after you submit your application.

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Explore opportunities for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

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Learn more about how Erikson supports students and prepares you for your career.

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Discover how to bring your story to Erikson and review our international requirements.

Academic Programs

Find Your Early Childhood Degree Program

Join the next generation of early childhood development leaders by pursuing a degree or professional development program.

Explore Academic Programs

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Earn your MS in a flexible and proven program built for hard-working professionals looking for new skills, knowledge, and resources in the drive to make a positive impact for children, families, and their communities.

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Study how factors such as culture, social class, and social relationships influence human development and undertake applied research while earning your doctoral degree in child development.

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Explore our vast certificate, endorsement, fellowship, and licensure programs offered by Erikson Institute’s premier professional development and training department , where we turn knowledge into action.

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Be the Change Children Need

Create a world where a child’s safety and wellbeing comes first.

Change doesn’t happen on its own. As an early childhood professional, you know there are obstacles and misconceptions that get in the way of child development.

By increasing our understanding of child development through research and field work, we strive every day to deliver information, services, and support to those who need it most. Help us make the world a better place for children — one leader at a time.