Early Childhood Education

Associate of Applied Science Degree
10-307-1

The Early Childhood Education program prepares students to work as teacher-caregivers in early childhood settings. It combines hands-on fieldwork in area centers with related academic work at the college. Graduates become responsible for the care and education of children in the birth-to-eight-years age range. They create and maintain safe and healthy play environments, guide behavior, plan and implement learning activities, and work cooperatively with staff and parents.

Early Childhood Education is a career option that has increased in demand. This expanding field is seeking potential students with keen observation skills, a talent for human insight, clear communication skills, and respect for children and families. Early Childhood Associate Degree graduates will meet the state educational requirements to be a Child Care Teacher in a licensed group early childhood center for children ages 2 weeks to 10 years old.

Program Outcomes

  • Apply child development theory to practice.
  • Culitvate relationships with children, family, and the community.
  • Assess child growth and development.
  • Use best practices in teaching and learning.
  • Demonstrate professionalism.
  • Integrate health, safety, and nutrition practices.

Graduates Have Found Employment As

  • Nannies
  • Nursery Schools
  • Day Care Centers
  • Head Start Classrooms
  • Infant Toddler Center
  • Before & After School Child Care Centers
  • Instructional Services Aide in public schools
  • Early Childhood Centers Administration positions

View the entire course listing.

General Education Courses Within Program

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Credits
307-148 ECE: Foundations of Early Childhood Education 3
307-167 ECE: Health, Safety, and Nutrition 3
307-151 ECE: Infant & Toddler Development 3
307-174 ECE: Introductory Practicum 3
801-136 English Composition 1 3
 Credits15
Semester 2
307-179 ECE: Child Development 3
307-188 ECE: Guiding Children's Behavior 3
307-108 ECE: Early Language & Literacy 3
307-110 ECE: Social Studies, Art & Music 3
307-177 ECE: Intermediate Practicum 3
 Credits15
Semester 3
307-187 ECE: Children with Differing Abilities 3
307-175 ECE: Preschool Practicum 3
801-198 Speech 3
804-118
Intermediate Algebra with Applications
or Mathematical Reasoning
4
307-112 ECE: STEM 3
 Credits16
Semester 4
307-195 ECE: Family and Community Relationships 3
307-199 ECE: Advanced Practicum 3
809-196 Introduction to Sociology 3
809-198 Introduction to Psychology 3
999-999 Elective 3
 Credits15
 Total Credits61
801-198Speech3
801-136English Composition 13
804-118Intermediate Algebra with Applications4
or 804-134 Mathematical Reasoning
809-196Introduction to Sociology3
809-198Introduction to Psychology3