Your Education
The Early Childhood Education program offers courses applicable to all students as well as those planning on a highly satisfying career nurturing young children. The Child Development I course (ECE 104X) is a social science option in the general education requirements for any bachelor’s degree. Individual classes such as child guidance, nutrition & physical wellness, and positive social development may be of interest to parents or community members.
Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in early childhood education is a 60 credit program. Students attending fulltime can complete it in 2 years, but many students attend part time while they are working or raising a family. The program is intended for students enrolling in college for the first time as well as for those who are educated in other subject areas but desire to retrain for employment in this field.
In addition to the courses of interest to all, students becoming early childhood professionals will study safety & health, learning environments, culture & the young child, families, screening & assessment, curriculum development for various ages, and inclusion of young children with special needs.
Certificate Program (Cert.)
The certificate in early childhood education is helpful for those who want to formalize their early childhood education training. Often, students who choose this option have a degree in another field but need to show an employer the knowledge and skill specific to early care and education as well. All courses in the certificate apply to the A.A.S. degree, and most students continue on to complete the 60 credit degree.
Minor (Minor)
The minor in early childhood education provides an opportunity for you to develop a foundation of knowledge and skills through coursework that includes an introduction to the early childhood profession and development of the child in their prenatal, infant and toddler years or in their pre-school and primary years. Working with an early childhood program advisor you will select the classes that are best for your interests.
This minor is a great choice for Bachelor of Arts degree-seeking students who need to satisfy their minor requirement or Associate of Arts students who want to explore early childhood education as an area of interest.
