Admissions
Join a community of early childhood leaders and professionals.
We provide a supportive and intimate learning environment for our students.
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
Choose a graduate school committed to your success.
Personalized Experience
With faculty and staff who know your name and story, Erikson Institute delivers a personalized graduate school experience.
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.
Whole-Child Focused
Our passion for understanding the complex nature of children, who are after all people, connects us.
Rich Community Partnerships
Centered in Chicago, Erikson partners with numerous community organizations to ensure the latest research and services reach those in need.
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.
Hear from Our Alums
By the Numbers
Attend an Upcoming Early Childhood Admissions Event
Meet an alum or current student, and ask your biggest questions at our next Erikson event.
Today is the Day
Start Your Application Today
Let’s build a world where children have better futures. That future begins here.
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.
Start gathering the documentation you need for your application.
Find out what to expect after you submit your application.
Explore opportunities for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
Learn more about how Erikson supports students and prepares you for your career.
Discover how to bring your story to Erikson and review our international requirements.
Discover Chicago’s Vibrant River North Neighborhood
Where we create a better future for all children.
Specifically designed for early childhood research and practice, our campus features high-tech classrooms and seminar spaces, teaming and group study rooms, and safe spaces for the research and programs that directly impact children and families.
Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood, Erikson Institute offers students access to one of the world’s most distinctive cities. Use the city’s public transit to visit one (or a few) of the hundreds of museums, historic sites, restaurants, and theaters.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Find Your Path at Erikson Institute
Take charge of your career and transform your practice with an early childhood degree from Erikson.