Jefferson College Logo

Early Childhood Education

​The Early Childhood Care and Education program aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for working in a variety of childcare settings, preparing them for diverse employment opportunities within the field.​ Additionally, the program facilitates the transfer of credits for students interested in furthering their education at a four-year institution, while also ensuring compliance with state regulations regarding personnel screening.
Student teacher building blocks with young child.

Program Overview

The primary purpose of the Early Childhood Care and Education program is to provide students with the background and professional competencies necessary for employment in the field of early childhood care and education. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for employment in a variety of settings including preschools, day care centers, school-age child care centers, residential centers, public schools (as classroom assistants), and recreation centers.

A substantial number of transfer credits will be earned for those students who later decide to pursue an education degree at a senior institution. This allows students to build upon their foundational knowledge in early childhood care while facilitating a seamless transition into higher education.

All participants in the Child Care/Early Childhood Education degree and certificate programs must meet all current regulations for personnel regarding health and child abuse/neglect screening mandated by the Missouri Division of Health Day Care Licensing Agency. This compliance ensures that students enter the workforce with the necessary certifications and understanding of important safety and welfare standards.

Academic Plan

The Academic Plan is a semester-by-semester plan for the full-time student. Part-time students should work with an advisor to customize the map to fit individual needs.

Early Childhood Academic Map

Early Childhood Education Certificate

Course Guides

Career Opportunities


open icon to open chat
Jefferson College
close chat window icon

Hi there! My name is Victor, your personal helper bot. Before I answer your questions, how would you describe yourself?