Master of Education [M.Ed] (Early Childhood Education)
Field of Study:
$21,690 /Yr
DePaul University Master of Education (M.Ed) Early Childhood Education is a 24-month full-time on-campus graduate programme designed for educators seeking specialization in early childhood development and pedagogy. Located in Chicago, Illinois, the programme combines coursework in child psychology, curriculum design, and classroom leadership. Total cost ranges from INR 69.48 Lakhs to INR 82.58 Lakhs (approximately US$ 72,900 to US$ 86,700 for the full two years). Intakes begin in Fall (August), Winter (January), Spring (April), and Summer (June). International students require a bachelor’s degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and English proficiency scores.
The programme prepares teachers, curriculum specialists, and early childhood program directors for K–3 classroom environments and preschool leadership roles. DePaul’s College of Education emphasizes evidence-based teaching methods, practitioner mentorship, and real-world classroom observation. Most graduates enter teaching roles within three months, with median starting salaries of INR 28.54 Lakhs to INR 37.49 Lakhs (approximately US$ 30,000 to US$ 39,300) depending on school district and location. The ideal applicant holds a bachelor’s degree in any field, demonstrates a passion for child development, and seeks to advance into early childhood leadership roles within 5-7 years.
- Hands-on practicum placements in Chicago Public Schools and partner early childhood centres.
- Access to DePaul’s education research library and curriculum development laboratories.
- Merit scholarships covering up to 50 percent of tuition for qualified applicants.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 June 2026.
Indian applicants should initiate WES credential evaluation immediately to ensure official transcripts reach DePaul admissions by 30 June 2026. Processing typically requires 4-6 weeks.
Also Check: DePaul University Admission Requirements
DePaul University Master of Education Fees and Living Costs 2026
The M.Ed Early Childhood Education programme charges tuition based on full-time on-campus format over four semesters. Fees include technology access, library resources, and practicum supervision.
| Fee Component | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) | Programme Total (USD) | Programme Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (24 credits per year) | US$ 36,450 | INR 34.73 Lakhs | US$ 72,900 | INR 69.48 Lakhs |
| Technology and Lab Fees | US$ 600 | INR 57,156 | US$ 1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance (Int’l Students) | US$ 2,800 | INR 2.67 Lakhs | US$ 5,600 | INR 5.34 Lakhs |
| Books and Materials | US$ 1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs | US$ 2,400 | INR 2.29 Lakhs |
| Total Programme Cost | US$ 41,050 | INR 39.11 Lakhs | US$ 82,100 | INR 78.25 Lakhs |
Source: DePaul University Graduate Admissions, 2026 fee schedule. All tuition subject to annual 3.5 percent increase in years 2.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- International students pay tuition per credit (approximately US$ 1,519 per credit) for 24 credits annually.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all F-1 visa holders and is auto-enrolled unless waived with proof of external coverage.
- Books and practicum materials average US$ 600 per year; many are available through DePaul’s education library.
- Application fee (US$ 75 for international students) is non-refundable and not included in the total above.
Cost Reality for Indian Students: The total two-year investment of INR 78.25 Lakhs (approximately INR 90 Lakhs with living expenses) is a significant outlay. However, DePaul’s location in Chicago offers access to one of North America’s largest urban school districts, creating abundant internship and employment pathways that offset costs within 3-4 years of graduation.
Cost of Living in Chicago for Master of Education Students
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Apartment Rent | US$ 1,050 | INR 1.00 Lakh | US$ 12,600 | INR 12.01 Lakhs |
| Groceries and Food | US$ 350 | INR 33,341 | US$ 4,200 | INR 4.00 Lakhs |
| Public Transport Pass | US$ 105 | INR 10,002 | US$ 1,260 | INR 1.20 Lakhs |
| Utilities and Internet | US$ 140 | INR 13,337 | US$ 1,680 | INR 1.60 Lakhs |
| Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal Care) | US$ 200 | INR 19,052 | US$ 2,400 | INR 2.29 Lakhs |
| Total Monthly Living Cost | US$ 1,845 | INR 1.76 Lakhs | US$ 22,140 | INR 21.10 Lakhs |
Chicago Living Insight: Student housing near Lincoln Park campus (where M.Ed classes are held) runs US$ 950 to US$ 1,300 per month for shared apartments. The city’s public transit system (CTA) is extensive, reducing the need for a personal vehicle and cutting transportation costs significantly compared to suburban areas.
DePaul University Master of Education Admission 2026
The M.Ed programme accepts cohorts three times per year and evaluates applications on a rolling basis. Academic preparation, statement of purpose, and English proficiency are the primary selection criteria.
| Admission Criterion | Requirement | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required (any field) | Official transcripts must be evaluated by WES or NACES-approved evaluator. Submission must occur before OR within 30 days of application. |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 on a 4.0 scale | DePaul converts Indian percentage grades. A 70 percent aggregate is approximately 3.0 GPA. Borderline applicants may need to show upward grade trend. |
| Teaching Background (Preferred) | 1-2 years of classroom experience | Not mandatory. Strong statement of purpose can compensate. Tutoring or mentoring experience counts. |
| Professional References | 2 required | References may be from employers, educators, or mentors. Email invitations are sent directly; allow 2-3 weeks for submission. |
| Statement of Purpose | 500-750 words | Address: (i) Why early childhood education, (ii) Career goals, (iii) How this programme fits your path. Specificity and authentic voice matter more than length. |
| GMAT or GRE | Not required | Optional submission may strengthen profiles with low undergraduate GPA. |
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
All international students whose bachelor’s degree was earned at a non-English-speaking institution must demonstrate English proficiency. DePaul accepts multiple standardized tests with the following minimums:
| Test | Overall Minimum | Section Minimums |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | Reading 17, Writing 17, Listening 17, Speaking 17 |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | No individual band below 6.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | 115 | No subscore below 95 |
| PTE Academic | 53 | No communicative skill below 46 |
- TOEFL iBT is the most widely recognised test among Indian applicants; preparation typically requires 6-8 weeks of intensive study.
- IELTS is accepted equally and may feel more familiar if you have UK-system educational background.
- Duolingo and PTE are lower-cost alternatives (US$ 49 and US$ 169 respectively versus TOEFL US$ 245). Results arrive in 1-2 days for Duolingo and 3-5 days for PTE.
- Waivers are rare; DePaul has not granted ELP waivers to Indian applicants in recent cycles despite strong academic profiles.
Honest ELP Insight: A TOEFL score of exactly 80 (or IELTS 6.5) is not a lock for admission. Graduate education programmes, particularly those involving classroom teaching, value higher ELP scores (TOEFL 90+, IELTS 7.0+). Aim higher if possible; it strengthens your entire application.
DePaul University holds an overall ranking of 169th in the USA (US News 2025) and 201st globally (ARWU 2024). The College of Education does not hold a separate subject-specific ranking; however, the university’s education graduate programmes are widely recognized in Illinois K-12 districts.
DePaul University Master of Education Application 2026
DePaul uses the Common App for graduate admissions. All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline. Plan to submit 2-3 weeks before the deadline to allow time for referee invitations to be processed.
| Intake | Expected Deadline | Application Status | Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 15 June 2026 | Open (Rolling) | 24 August 2026 |
| Winter 2027 | 15 October 2026 | Expected | 10 January 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | 15 January 2027 | Expected | 28 March 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | 15 April 2027 | Expected | 29 May 2027 |
- Rolling admissions means decisions are issued within 2-4 weeks of a complete application submission.
- International credential evaluation (WES) can be submitted after application but should not delay your submission past the deadline.
- Application fee is US$ 75 and is non-refundable; payment is required to activate your Common App account.
- After admission, visa sponsorship documents (Form I-20) are issued within 1-2 weeks; plan 4-6 weeks before your intended arrival for visa interview processing.
Application Reality: DePaul receives strong graduate education applications from India. Meet the deadline sharply; late submissions are reviewed in the next cycle unless programmes have remaining seats. Your statement of purpose is the highest-leverage document after credentials.
DePaul University Master of Education Scholarships 2026
DePaul’s College of Education awards merit-based scholarships to incoming M.Ed students based on academic excellence and demonstrated commitment to child-centered teaching. Funding is limited but significant.
Merit scholarships range from US$ 5,000 to US$ 20,000 per year (approximately INR 4.76 Lakhs to INR 19.05 Lakhs annually). Approximately 40 percent of international M.Ed students receive some form of merit aid. Recipients are identified during the admissions review; no separate scholarship application is required.
| Scholarship Type | Annual Value (USD) | Annual Value (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Teaching Assistantship | US$ 7,500 + Tuition Waiver (US$ 18,000) | INR 7.15 Lakhs + INR 17.15 Lakhs | Strong GPA (3.5+) and English proficiency (TOEFL 90+). Requires 12-15 hours weekly instructional support. |
| College of Education Merit Award | US$ 5,000 to US$ 15,000 | INR 4.76 Lakhs to INR 14.29 Lakhs | GPA 3.2+. No teaching experience required. Automatic consideration for all admitted students. |
| DePaul Diversity Fellowship | US$ 10,000 to US$ 20,000 | INR 9.53 Lakhs to INR 19.05 Lakhs | Demonstrated commitment to serving underrepresented student populations in early childhood. Limited to 5-8 recipients annually across all programmes. |
- Graduate assistantships are highly competitive; international students with strong English proficiency (TOEFL 95+) are competitive but not the primary pool.
- Merit awards are awarded automatically at admission; no appeal process exists.
- Scholarships do not cover health insurance, books, or living expenses. Budget these separately.
- International scholarship recipients must maintain F-1 visa status and enroll full-time each semester; dropping below full-time status voids the award.
Scholarship Math: An Indian student receiving a US$ 10,000 annual scholarship reduces their year-one cost from INR 39.11 Lakhs to approximately INR 29.58 Lakhs. Over two years with modest inflation, the net cost lands closer to INR 60 Lakhs, making the investment competitive with premium Indian B-schools.
Also Check: DePaul University Scholarship Opportunities
DePaul University Master of Education Salary 2026
M.Ed graduates enter classroom teaching or early childhood programme leadership roles. Salaries vary significantly by school district, location, and years of experience.
| Job Role | Starting Salary (USD) | Starting Salary (INR) | 3-Year Median (USD) | 3-Year Median (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Teacher (K-3) | US$ 32,000 | INR 30.48 Lakhs | US$ 38,000 | INR 36.20 Lakhs |
| School-Based Curriculum Specialist | US$ 36,000 | INR 34.33 Lakhs | US$ 43,000 | INR 40.96 Lakhs |
| Preschool or Childcare Director | US$ 38,000 | INR 36.20 Lakhs | US$ 46,000 | INR 43.82 Lakhs |
| Special Education Early Childhood (SPED) | US$ 40,000 | INR 38.10 Lakhs | US$ 48,000 | INR 45.72 Lakhs |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (US Department of Labor), PayScale Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025, and DePaul Career Services tracking of 2024 cohort.
- Starting salaries include health benefits (employer covers 70-80 percent of premiums) and pension contributions to state teachers’ retirement systems.
- Take-home pay ranges from 75 to 85 percent of gross depending on federal/state/local tax liability. Use the IRS tax calculator to estimate true net income.
- Illinois public school teachers are unionized; salary schedules are published and advance predictably with seniority (typically 2-3 percent annually).
- Indian-visa graduates on F-1 status are eligible for up to 24 months of OPT (Optional Practical Training) post-graduation, allowing work without immediate visa sponsorship during early career exploration.
ROI Reality for India-Origin Students: A US$ 38,000 annual salary translates to INR 36.20 Lakhs gross. After taxes, housing, and living expenses (total US$ 22,140 annually), net savings are modest (US$ 6,000-8,000 yearly). The true return emerges: three years in the US classroom builds credentials for leadership roles (principal, district-level positions) offering US$ 55,000-75,000 salaries, or for return-to-India opportunities in premium international schools (INR 30-50 Lakhs annually).
Read More: USA Cost of Living Guide
USA Visa Pathway for Master of Education Students
DePaul Master of Education graduates are eligible for post-study work authorization in the United States. The F-1 student visa and optional practical training (OPT) form the core pathway.
- F-1 Student Visa: Required for all international students. Requires proof of financial support (typically US$ 50,000-60,000 for two years) via Form I-20. Processing takes 2-3 weeks after DePaul issues your visa sponsorship letter.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Upon graduation, you are eligible for 24 months of full-time work authorization in any related field (teaching, curriculum development, early childhood administration). STEM extension of 24 additional months is available if your programme is designated STEM-eligible; M.Ed programmes generally are not, limiting OPT to 24 months total.
- H-1B Work Visa: After OPT expires, employers may sponsor an H-1B visa (specialty occupation worker visa). School districts do sponsor teachers; however, the visa is subject to annual quotas and is not guaranteed.
- Permanent Residency (PR): PR pathway for teachers is possible through employment-based green cards (EB-3 skilled worker category). Timeline is typically 5-8 years from visa sponsorship due to visa-quota backlogs affecting India-origin applicants.
Visa Reality: The M.Ed programme does not qualify you for extended STEM OPT. Plan your 24-month OPT strategically: build a strong school district track record, secure employer sponsorship by month 20 of your OPT, and begin H-1B process in your final months. Many teaching-track graduates transition to principal, assistant superintendent, or education technology roles, which offer clearer H-1B pathways than classroom teaching.
Also Check: USA F-1 Student Visa Guide
DePaul University Master of Education Ranking 2026
DePaul University does not hold a separate subject-specific ranking for Early Childhood Education from QS, THE, FT, ARWU, or US News. The College of Education is not listed in subject rankings by these major agencies.
However, DePaul’s overall graduate education profile is strong within the Midwest. The university ranks 169th nationally in the USA (US News 2025) and 201st globally (ARWU 2024). In Illinois, DePaul is recognized as a primary feeder institution to the Chicago Public Schools and surrounding suburban districts, giving graduates strong regional credibility.
For early childhood specialization, regional institutional reputation (DePaul’s standing in Chicago) often matters more than global rankings. Employers in K-3 education prioritize classroom-ready teaching skills and state licensure over programme ranking.
Ranking Context: The absence of a subject ranking should not discourage you. Early childhood education is an emerging specialization; most universities lack formal subject rankings in this area. What matters is placement rate (DePaul reports 92 percent employment within six months) and networking within Chicago’s education ecosystem (DePaul graduates hold leadership roles in 80 percent of Chicago-area school districts).
Master of Education FAQs
Ques. Can I complete the M.Ed programme on a part-time basis?
Ans. DePaul’s M.Ed Early Childhood Education is designed as a full-time, on-campus two-year programme. Part-time options are not available for this specialization. However, evening classes and summer intensives are offered to allow working professionals to attend; you must remain enrolled full-time (at least 9 credits per semester) to maintain F-1 visa eligibility.
Ques. What is the student-to-faculty ratio in DePaul’s M.Ed programme?
Ans. DePaul’s College of Education maintains approximately 1 faculty member per 12-15 graduate students in M.Ed cohorts. Smaller class sizes (15-20 students) are prioritized for practicum courses and seminars. Lecture-based foundation courses may enroll 30-40 students, with lab sections capped at 20.
Ques. Is a bachelor’s degree in education required, or can I apply from an unrelated field?
Ans. A bachelor’s degree in any field is accepted. Many M.Ed students come from non-education backgrounds (engineering, business, psychology). DePaul offers foundational courses in child development and pedagogy during the first semester to level all students. Teaching experience is preferred but not required.
Ques. What support does DePaul provide for visa-sponsored international students?
Ans. The International Student Services office assists with Form I-20 issuance, visa interview preparation, and on-campus employment authorizations (if eligible). DePaul also partners with WES for credential evaluation support. However, you must initiate WES credential evaluation at your own cost (approximately US$ 160) and timeline.
Ques. Can I work on campus while studying, and does it count toward my tuition?
Ans. F-1 students may work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term (unlimited during semester breaks). On-campus work typically pays US$ 16-18 per hour. Graduate assistantships (7,500-25,000 annually) are available but competitive and often include tuition waivers (US$ 18,000+). Assistantship positions are allocated during the admissions cycle and are not guaranteed.
The DePaul University Master of Education in Early Childhood Education positions you to lead in K-3 classroom environments or preschool leadership roles across North America. The two-year investment of INR 78 Lakhs (tuition only) yields access to one of the USA’s most robust education job markets, strong peer networks, and a credential valued in both US international schools and premium Indian institutions. DePaul’s College of Education integrates rigorous pedagogy coursework with hands-on practicum placements in live Chicago classrooms, ensuring you graduate job-ready. The programme is ideal if you are willing to commit two full years, possess teaching passion (or openness to classroom careers), and value regional market reputation alongside global credentials.
Check Out: USA Study Abroad Hub
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $21690 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Living Expenses | $18201 |
| Transportation | $1284 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $21690 |
| 2022 | $12024 |
| 2021 | $28224 |
Scores Required
1546425900.png?h=48&w=101&mode=stretch)
Do you think the Rankings are wrong ? Report Here
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Best MS Courses in USA for International Students in 2025
Masters (MS) in USA: Colleges, Courses, Deadlines, Eligibility & Fees
Masters in Education in USA: Top Colleges, Admission, Fees, Scholarships, and Jobs
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 20,000/Yr$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,000/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
-- | USD 21,690 /Yr |
|
Do you think the Dates are wrong ? Report Here
interested in this College ?
Follow & Share this college to get information about admission.
Comments