Program Overview

The Master of Education in Early Childhood Montessori Education within The Center for Montessori Education at Trine University can be completed in 12-15 months and prepares adult learners for a leadership role within a Montessori early childhood classroom, either in the public or private sector. There is a national demand for high quality early child care educators in the Northeast Indiana region and beyond, and interest is growing in the time-tested Montessori method that prepares children to develop into their best selves. Learners who complete this program enter the workforce with professional qualifications and depth of experience resulting from a nine-month clinical practicum following eight weeks of intensive academic study during the summer. The Master’s program culminates in a final Trine Online Leadership course on research methods.

Clinical Practicum:

Following completion of the eight-week academic phase, adult learners are supported to identify an approved Montessori classroom within which to complete a nine-month student teaching experience. This may be accomplished within the classroom of an experienced supervising teacher or, in some cases, the adult learner may complete a self-directed practicum with additional support by dedicated field supervisors and the program director. It is during this academic year that adult learners acquire experience presenting the Montessori hands-on materials, maintaining planning, observations, and academic recordkeeping, working with parent involvement, and developing strategies for maximizing learning potential in the children they serve.

Commitment to Diversity:

Trine University remains committed to cultivating diversity, inclusion and fairness. As a leading private institution of higher education, Trine fosters a culture of understanding, growth and inquiry; values the diverse qualities of its students, faculty and staff; promotes an inclusive environment free of discrimination and intolerance; and welcomes everyone.  Trine will not allow discrimination and will continue to grant admission and provide educational opportunities without regard to race, age, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, religion or veteran status. The culture of Trine University dictates that these same standards of acceptance apply to all faculty, staff, alumni and community members.