Kathmandu University School of Education offers programs in interdisciplinary areas with a special focus on teacher education to develop human resources required for the nation building with special reference to education and pedagogy. To address the shift in the educational processes, the School aims at developing skilled and visionary educational professionals. In the given context, this document discusses the rationale for the program of MEd in ECD (One Year) program, eligibility for the prospective students, program structure, course descriptions and student assessment modalities.

Rationale

Traditionally, Nepali children were nurtured informally by parents and grandparents. However, shifts in family structure and work patterns have moved this role to formal settings like preschools and ECD centers. National plans since 2004 have prioritized early childhood development, resulting in over 36,000 ECD centers across Nepal.

Despite this growth, there is a shortage of qualified professionals, and concerns about the quality of care remain. Recognizing this gap and responding to growing demand from educators and school leaders, Kathmandu University School of Education is introducing a Master’s program in Early Childhood Development to strengthen the workforce and enhance early education quality in Nepal.

Purpose and Objectives

The one-year M.Ed. program in Early Childhood Development at Kathmandu University is designed to prepare skilled professionals—such as educators, trainers, leaders, and entrepreneurs—capable of addressing the growing demand for expertise in early childhood development across Nepal.

Graduates of this program will be equipped to:

• Lead and manage early childhood development programs effectively.

• Develop strategies, manage systems, and utilize resources to enhance early learning initiatives.

• Teach young children using age-appropriate, contextual teaching methods.

• Apply modern pedagogical approaches in early childhood education.

• Conduct small-scale, need-based research in the field.

• Design and implement activities and curriculum suitable for young learners.

• Create and adapt educational materials for evolving needs.

• Train current and future early childhood educators.

• Introduce innovative practices tailored to Nepal’s socio-cultural context.

Graduate Attributes

Graduates of this program will be recognized as:

• Skilled professionals in Early Childhood Development

• Leaders, managers, and developers of early learning centers

• Designers of early childhood education projects and programs

• Curriculum and content developers

• Entrepreneurs in the early childhood education sector

• Competent in managing diversity, finance, human resources, and stakeholder engagement

• Educators, trainers, and material developers in early childhood education

Career Opportunities

Degree holders can pursue roles in:

• Early childhood education centers

• Institutional and community schools

• Government agencies at federal, provincial, and local levels

• NGOs and INGOs focused on child development

• Educational research and development organizations

• Private educational ventures and consultancies

Duration of the Program

The program is structured so as to complete in one year but offers flexibility. Students are, however, required to complete all the requirements of the program within two years.

Eligibility Requirement

The candidates having a Master's degree in any discipline from recognized university or an institution recognized by Kathmandu University are eligible to apply for the program.