(60/61 semester hours minimum)

This program is designed for students who wish to enter the field of Early Childhood Education or who are already employed in the field and wish to earn a credential by expanding their knowledge and competency in working with children from birth to age 8. The program will provide students with the skills and knowledge to develop competency in working with children. The courses will provide the theoretical background and practical experience necessary for students to succeed in a variety of educational settings. Program graduates will be qualified to seek employment in early care programs. Students may transfer to a four-year institution for further study.

In addition to General Education Outcomes, learners who complete the Early Childhood Education degree will:

• Identify, document and assess elements that determine quality in early childhood programs
• Design a learning environment and use teaching strategies that are based upon child development theory
• Plan, implement and evaluate a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters children’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development
• Examine program philosophy and goals, classroom design, teacher/child interaction, planning and implementation of curriculum, observation and assessment of the young child and family involvement in a variety of early childhood settings
• Demonstrate good early childhood practice in an early childhood setting

For more information, contact Program Coordinator Susan Spencer.