Early Childhood, A.A.S.
Program Description:
This is a nationally accredited 2-year associate degree program emphasizing best practices in the education and care of children, birth through age eight. The program offers a full range of early childhood courses and field experiences, including a 280-hour practicum in a variety of early childhood settings, both on and off-campus. It is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC). It is designed for seamless transfer into the Early Childhood Department’s B.S. program. Additionally, it includes a liberal arts component, child study experience, and career/college transfer preparation. An exit portfolio is required for graduation.
Program Mission:
The mission of the A.A.S. Early Childhood Program is to prepare students to become early childhood professionals who provide excellent care and education for young children, birth through age eight. Graduates will be grounded in best practices and ready to work in a variety of roles in the early childhood field at the associate degree level or to enter baccalaureate degree programs in teacher education or related fields.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this program, students will demonstrate competency in:
- Promoting child development and learning
- Building family and community relationships
- Observing, documenting and assessing to support young children and families
- Planning and teaching developmentally appropriate lessons for young children
- Upholding professional standards in the early childhood field
