Associate in Science (AS) Early Childhood Studies

The Early Childhood Studies program focuses on educational practices that emphasize interpersonal relationships, cultural diversity, child-centered curriculum and the inclusion of children with special needs in all educational opportunities. The curriculum prepares students to teach or administer programs for young children that include: private early childhood programs, public programs such as school district children centers and Head Start Programs, Head Start, Infant and School Age Programs. The Early Childhood Studies program is geared toward students wishing to prepare for employment in early childhood programs. Emphasis is placed in preparing students for early entry into the workforce. The program provides a sequential path that allows students to obtain the academic requirements for various state permits – Associate Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Teacher. Students may build on the courses provided by the Early Childhood Studies program to later transfer. However, the AS-T in ECE is the recommended option for students desiring to transfer.