Program Overview
The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares students to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse and inclusive learning environments. Throughout the program, students develop a strong understanding of child growth, development, and learning through foundational theories and evidence-based practices. Coursework covers key areas such as observation and assessment, lesson planning, developmental domains, positive guidance, and effective communication with children, families, and early childhood professionals. Through hands-on learning opportunities and course assignments, students build the knowledge and skills needed to support children, families, and communities. Students demonstrate their competency by applying theoretical knowledge to real-world early childhood settings while working with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers. Students who earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Education may pursue careers in a variety of early childhood settings or continue their education toward a bachelor's degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or Birth-Kindergarten Licensure. Students interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree after completing the AAS are encouraged to work closely with an academic advisor to plan their educational pathway.
*Field experience and on-site observations are required for most classes.
Are You Interested in Becoming a…
- Preschool Teacher?
- Teacher Assistant?
- Head Start or NC Pre-K Teacher Assistant?
- Child Care Teacher?
- Director of a Child Care Center?
- Early Childhood Program Specialist?
- Special Education Assistant?
- Recreational Program Leader?
- Family Child Care Provider?
- Nanny or Au Pair?
If so, apply for the Early Childhood Education (ECE) program!
Program Notes
- Students are required to pass criminal background checks for field experiences in the program. The background check will be the responsibility of the student.
- The Early Childhood Practicum courses require time in childcare settings and may require bending, lifting, squatting, and standing. Please discuss any limitations with your instructor or Academic Counselor prior to registering for these courses.
- All courses from the Early Childhood Education certificate will transfer into the diploma program and Associate in Applied Science degree program.
Employment Opportunities
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| Preschool or Kindergarten Teacher for private (non-public) school | Direct children in educational activities, develop and implement the curriculum for the school year, plan and supervise a half or full day program for children |
| Teacher Assistant in public school (Associate Degree or college credits required in some states) | Work under the direction of a licensed teacher, prepare student materials, monitor children during lunch and recess, may be required to drive school bus |
| Head Start or NC Pre-K Program Teacher Assistant | Assist the lead teacher with the daily program and activities; prepare student materials |
| Lead Teacher for preschool or child care center | Plan and direct half or full day programs for children |
| Child Care Teacher | Teach children in a child care center; assist lead teacher |
| Director of child care center | Manage and oversee child care center (schedules, budgets, policies, staffing, etc.) |
| Assistant Director of child care center | Assist Director with managing child care center (schedules, budgets, staffing, etc.) |
| Early Childhood Program Specialist | Assess children’s needs, develop activities based on children’s needs |
| Special Education Assistant | Assist teacher with exceptional children’s daily program |
| Recreational Program Leader | Plan, implement, and supervise recreational programs for children |
| Family Child Care Provider | Supervise and care for children in your home; plan and direct educational activities |
| Nanny or Au Pair | Supervise and care for children in their home |
There are many other employment opportunities with advanced degrees.