Early Childhood Education
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.
Degree Information
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is designed for entry-level employment through practical and theoretical courses. Please see individual degree plans listed below for specific degree/certificate requirements.
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.
Course Guides
Jefferson College Institutional Course Guides (ICGs) are found in the Simple Syllabus - Syllabus Library AND/OR within your Canvas class page via the Simple Syllabus link in the Course Navigation Menu.
Career Opportunities
The field of early childhood education offers a variety of rewarding career paths for individuals looking to work with young children. Careers range from teaching positions to administrative roles, each requiring different educational backgrounds and skills.
The demand for qualified early childhood education professionals is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by an increasing awareness of the importance of early childhood education. This growth presents a wealth of opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field, making it a promising and fulfilling path for prospective educators and childcare providers.
