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Early Care and Education
Associate in Applied Science Degree (FP, FV, M)
Certificate of Specialization (FP)
Certificate of Proficiency (FV, M)
The Early Care and Education program provides various education levels to fit many lifestyles and needs. It is a two-year program of study with a concentration of coursework in early education, child development and family studies.
The Child Development Associate option is a competency-based program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to care for children ages birth through 8 and to communicate effectively with parents and other child care personnel. The Developmental Disabilities option prepares students to work in preschools, residential centers and other programs that have developmentally disabled children.
The Certificate of Proficiency prepares students for entry-level or assistant teacher positions in early childhood programs, and the Certificate of Specialization is designed for individuals interested in working as teacher aides in child care centers.
Students who complete the AAS degree can find employment as teachers or directors in early childhood settings, including preschool programs, teacher assistants in elementary schools, or as parent educators working within the community.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for child care workers is expected to grow at an average rate. The department also states that qualified persons who are interested in child care can quickly find a job due to a high turnover rate.
Persons interested in early care and education should be:
- Good with children
- Patient
- Responsible
- Mature
- Sensitive