Title
Early Childhood Education Transfer Pathway
Associate of Science (AS) - 60 credits
About this program
This program includes coursework in child development for ages birth through 8, behavior guidance, children with special needs, development of environments and curriculum for infant/toddler, preschool- and primary school-age children, as well as on-site experiences in a variety of programs. Graduates will independently provide a healthy, safe and developmentally appropriate learning environment in support of families. Child development courses in combination with general education courses comprise the 60-credit degree program for students. The program meets the educational requirements for assistant teacher and paraprofessional in an educational setting as well as assistant teacher and teacher in a child care setting and/or family child care provider, and group family child care provider (based on program) as listed in Minnesota Department of Human Services Rule Numbers 9502 and 9503. Work experience, in addition to educational coursework, is required by Rule 3 for teacher positions in licensed child care facilities. Individuals with any prior record of child maltreatment or crime of violence will not be allowed to participate in lab or field experience coursework.
Program outcomes
- Create developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children.
- Demonstrate professional behaviors consistent with the child care professional code of ethics.
- Apply appropriate guidance strategies for children based on knowledge of developmental stages.
- Understand nutrition requirements for a child care program.
- Communicate effectively with parents and coworkers.
- Demonstrate knowledge in the care of and planning for children with special needs.
- Demonstrate an understanding of typical and atypical development of children ages birth through 8.
- Demonstrate knowledge of physical, emotional and safety issues.
Accreditation
Minnesota State Community and Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604-1411
http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org
Phone: 312.263.0456 / 800.621.7440
