Early Childhood Education, AAS

Major Code: 3102

Program Description

The A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education degree is a 60-credit hour program designed to prepare students for a career in the early childhood field as teachers in early childhood programs, or aids in Pre-K and Head Start Programs. Students will study child growth and development as well as learn to observe young children in order to plan, prepare and implement appropriate curriculum and learning environments for early childhood programs. Students will have opportunities to gain practical experience working with children in a variety of settings.

NOTES: Students in this program must pass a background check during the first semester of their program. Students must earn a C or higher in all core program courses.

Program Learning Outcomes

The A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education will educate and prepare students interesting in working with young children and families in diverse learning environments, or to further their own education as early childhood professionals.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

1. Discriminate among the variety of learning theories and approaches habituated in early childhood education classrooms.
2. Articulate a personal philosophy of Early Childhood Education based on knowledge of child development and best practices.
3. Plan, prepare, and implement appropriate curriculum and learning environments to support a diverse population of young children and their families.
4. Demonstrate appropriate communication skills, teaching methods, and professional conduct while working with young children.
5. Apply knowledge of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct and the West Virginia Child Care Licensing regulations for best practices in the early childhood classroom.
6. Identify and implement West Virginia Early Learning Standards while working with young children.

Program Assessment

Program Outcomes are assessed in targeted courses on specific assignments, with the Early Childhood Education Assessment Exam, as well as the institute General Education Assessment.