This program provides training for those who want to become involved in the care and education of young children from birth to age eight. Early childhood education, like all education, demands well-prepared teachers. A growing body of research supports the value of high-quality early childhood programs for children’s later success in school and later in life; and the most important part of that is the teacher. Courses in theory and lab experiences are combined with general education courses to provide a comprehensive base of training in the field of early childhood care and education. Unique learning profiles such as giftedness, at-risk, special needs, and English language learners are also covered in the course of training. This program enables students to meet the educational qualifications for Early Childhood Teacher and Director as defined by the Department of Human Services of the State of Colorado. CMC also offers Early Childhood Education certificates in Early Childhood Teacher, Group Leader, Director, and Developmental Interventionist Assistant.
Completion of this program positions students to obtain employment in a variety of early childhood education settings, such as: school district preschool paraprofessional, Head Start teacher, Early Childhood Resource and Referral Agency worker, child care center lead teacher, infant nursery supervisor or director, family child care home operator, and developmental interventionist assistant. The Associate of Applied Science degree prepares students to enter either skilled or paraprofessional occupations, or to advance in the current job. These programs are not intended to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs, but certain courses may be accepted at some institutions.
Students must demonstrate college-level composition and reading for all ECE courses. Students must also demonstrate college-level proficiency in composition, reading, and mathematics as prerequisites for general education courses within this degree. Skills in these areas may affect the sequence of courses in which students can enroll and may extend the time required to complete this program. Please see your advisor for testing requirements.
All students are encouraged to work with an advisor regarding recommended course sequencing and course prerequisite requirements.
Graduates will receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education. The Early Childhood Education program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), www.naeyc.org.
Early Childhood Education is offered at Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Dillon, Leadville, Rifle, Aspen, and Edwards, as well as Colorado Mountain College online.
Learn more about the Early Childhood Education Program
