Early Childhood & Early Childhood Special Education Dual Certification
Advance your career with one of the most in-demand certifications in education.

Flexible schedule. Online classes. Dual certification.
Our fully online Certificate of Graduate Studies (CGS) in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education (ECE/ECSE) is designed for busy working professionals and provides dual certification in just 18 months.
In-Demand Careers
With certificates in both early childhood education and special education, you’ll open doors to a range of career opportunities in schools, early intervention programs, and educational organizations.
Why ECE/ECSE? | Why Our Program?
- ECE/ECSE is one of the most high-need certifications in education nationwide.
- Program design fits the needs of individuals working full-time and raising a family and can be completed in just 18 months (four consecutive semesters).
- In many cases, CGS candidates can complete required clinical placement hours in their place of employment.
- Candidates will study under faculty who are current ECE/ECSE practitioners in our state-of-the-art facilities at recently renovated Horace Mann Hall.
- Curriculum meets the requirement of program enrollment for individuals on emergency certifications.
Our Department of Elementary Education Faculty

Dr. Karen L. Capraro
- Professor

Dr. Natasha J. Feinberg
- Associate Professor

Dr. Anne M. Goodrow
- Professor

Dr. Nandita Gurjar
- Assistant Professor

Dr. Martha E. Horn
- Professor Emerita

Dr. Maria E. Lawrence
- Professor

Dr. Carolyn H. Obel-Omia
- Associate Professor

Dr. Leslie A. Sevey
- Professor

Dr. Susan Marie Zoll
- Adjunct Faculty I
Our Department of Special Education Faculty

Dr. Kelly A. Acosta
- Assistant Professor

Ms. Leslie Colleen Fanning
- Assistant Professor

Dr. Ying Hui
- Professor

Dr. Paul G. LaCava
- Professor

Dr. Marie A. Lynch
- Professor

Dr. Cara McDermott-Fasy
- Professor

Mrs. Jeanne S. Morris
- Higher Education Administrative Assistant II
Hear from Our Students

Nicole B.
"Being a working mom, this program has enabled me to work when I can at my pace and accomplish my goals."
Persevering and Passionate

“I hope my story encourages all young people to attend school and keep on going,” says Jacqueline Lawson.

Take the Next Step!
Feinstein School of Education and Human Development
The Feinstein School administers and coordinates all professional education programs at Rhode Island College. We offer a range of programs, including early childhood, pre-K-12, counseling, school psychology, youth development and health and wellness.
- phone401-456-8110
- placeHorace Mann Hall 241