Early Childhood Education

Employment

Early childhood educators work in child care centers, preschools, and public schools with children through the age of eight. They play an important role in shaping the kind of individual a child will become. In addition to attending to children's basic needs for trust and understanding, they prepare curriculum that stimulates the children's physical, emotional, intellectual, and social growth. They help children explore and learn through the development of their interests which enhances independence and builds self esteem.

Early childhood professions are a link between the home and the school communicating with parents and meeting the needs of both children and families. They create a safe, healthy learning environment in which children can grow and develop. They may be classroom teachers, special needs aides, teaching assistants, parent and curriculum coordinators, or center directors. This degree transfers into a four year degree in Early Childhood Education.

Job Outlook

Moderate growth in jobs, 30%, is predicted through the year 2005 as the number of young children increases. Good employment prospects will be available for those who are well qualified.

Earnings

According to the Economic Research Institute, beginning teachers (preschool/kindergarten) earned approximately $18,000 in 1996. The average salary for was $22,000 up to $25,500 with experience. According to the American Federation of Teachers, beginning pre-elementary teachers with bachelor's degrees earned $24,500 in 1994-95

The Requirements

The following are the required courses necessary to receive an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education:

COURSE		CREDIT
ORI 100	Freshman Orientation	1
ENG 101	English Composition I	3
ENG 102	English Composition II	3
PSY 101	General Psychology	4
PSY 202	Child Development & Psychology	4
ECE 100	Intro. To Early Childhood Education	3
ECE 110	Dev. Appropriate Practices for Early Childhood Education	3
ECE 210	Child Guidance	3
ECE 220	Infant & Toddler Care	3
ECE 195	Practicum I	3
MTH 121	Principles of Elem. Math I OR	4
MTH 110	College Algebra
PLS 101	Intro. To American Government	3
ENG 230	Literature for Children	3
ECE 295	Practicum II in Early Childhood Ed.	3
ECE 230	Creative Methods for Teaching Young Children	3
ECE 290	Managing a Child Care Center	3
	Approved Electives	3
	Lab Science (BIO 101, PHY 101)	4
	Humanities Electives	6
	Fine Arts (Humanities) Elective	3
	TOTAL CREDITS	65