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Erikson Institute Mourns Passing of Legendary Co-Founder Barbara Taylor Bowman

Child Development Degree Programs

Child-Focused Graduate and Academic Programs

Enrich and improve the lives of children and families with early childhood, social work, and child development graduate programs at Erikson Institute.

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Building Bright Futures: Why Choose Erikson?

Take the Next Step to Advance Children’s Wellbeing

Every child deserves the expertise early childhood specialists offer.

As early childhood experts, our graduates go on to change the world, one child at a time. Our master’s degree programs and professional development opportunities are centered in racial equity and lead to inspiration and transformation.

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 Explore Professional Development

A Supportive Environment for Early Childhood Leaders

Nancy Carillo
MSW 2024
“ As a student at Erikson Institute, I have discovered a high-quality graduate program in social work and child development which has transformed my practice as an educational coach and developmental therapist. ”
Ashley Telman
Online MS Early Childhood Education Program 2020
“ Thanks to my work at Erikson, I have a stronger sense of how to work with educators, families, and children who may have different goals or approaches when it comes to early childhood education. ”
Headshot of Zenia Haynes, Erikson Institute Alumnus, Infant Mental Health Certificate.
Zenia Haynes
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Graduate Certificate 2022
“ The beauty of the program is that it meets the student where they are, and using strength-based approaches and reflection, helps students to see what they can contribute to make the world a better place. ”

Graduate Catalog

Accelerate Change with Child-Focused Graduate Programs

With a range of degree-granting academic programs in fields critical to the well-being of children, advancing your education at Erikson gives you the child development lens through which to inspire change.

Impact child-focused fields with a research-based child development program.

Prepare for your role as a Certified Child Life Specialist in health care settings

Prepare to teach every child that walks through your classroom door in this Early Childhood Education Degree Program.

Address early developmental challenges in infants and toddlers aged birth to 5 in this mental health-informed program.

Serve children and help them overcome obstacles by earning your MSW degree.

Professional Development to Advance Your Career

Enrich your work with professional development opportunities.

What we know about human development is always changing — and as we gain new knowledge, we are better able to inform our practices in early childhood development, early care, early education, developmental psychology, mental health, and social work.

Explore our courses, seminars, and professional development workshops for access to the latest research.

Learn more about Professional Development

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Learn More About Financial Aid and Scholarships

100% of applicants who complete the FAFSA are eligible for scholarships.

Learn more about financial aid opportunities at Erikson Institute.

LEARN ABOUT GRADUATE SCHOOL FINANCIAL AID

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Eminent Faculty. Preeminent Opportunities.

Network with leaders and experts in your field.

At Erikson Institute, you’ll work alongside leaders in the field of child and adolescent development. Find out how experts in the field research and advocate on behalf of children throughout Chicago and, to that end, around the world.

Meet our Faculty

Our Students…

356
Enrolled
37
Median Age
3 .84
Average GPA

The Future Starts Here

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

Learn about graduate admission requirements, find out what you need to submit your application, and learn about the wealth of resources and support available to current and prospective students.

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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.

Where Community & Leadership Thrive

What makes an Erikson Institute student?

At Erikson, you get more than a degree or credential. With a community of child-focused experts on your side, you’ll have the network, resources, and opportunities to advance your career and advocate for children everywhere.

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Attend an Early Childhood Studies Admissions Event

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