


This program provides a comprehensive exploration of the principles, theories, and practices that form the foundation of early childhood education. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the developmental stages of young children, the role of early childhood educators, and the significance of creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.
The program combines direct instruction, group collaborations, case studies, engaging activities, and practical experiences in early childhood settings. Participants will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios through observations and hands-on learning. By the end of the program, participants will have a strong foundation in early childhood education, enabling them to pursue further studies or embark on a career in this field. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to earn college credit through the dual enrollment program with our college partnerships.
Students will have the opportunity to earn industry credentials during their program;
CPR/AED Certification • First Aid Certification • Paraprofessional Certification • Child Development Associate Credential (CDA)
Key Topics
- Prenatal – Early Elementary Development
- Approaches to Learning
- Health, Safety and Nutrition
- Curriculum Design
- Child Observation and Assessment
- Inclusive Practices
- Family and Community Engagement
- Career Readiness
Schools that offer this program
Course Sequence
YEAR 1
ECE100
Early Childhood Education 1
Prerequisite:
none
YEAR 2
ECE200
Early Childhood Education 2
Prerequisite:
Early Childhood Education 1
YEAR 3
ECE430
Early Childhood Education 3
Prerequisite:
Early Childhood Education 2
or
ECE440
Early Childhood Education 4
Prerequisite:
Concurrent enrollment or completion of Early Childhood Professions 3
or
MIC500
Mentorships Internships Careers
Prerequisite:
Early Childhood Education 2 and Instructor approval,
11th or 12th grade
*MIC500 can be concurrently enrolled with both ECE430 & ECE440 or by itself
Career Tree

ENTRY-LEVEL CAREERS
(with Program Completion)
- Paraprofessional
- Assistant Teacher/Caregiver (Birth-5)
- Before/After School Elementary Care
- Au Pair/Nanny
- Children's Party Planner
- Home Care Provider
- Youth Camp Counselor
- Children's Author/Illustrator
- Social Service Case Manager Assistant
- Children's Photographer
- Cruise Ship/Resort Childcare Provider
- Respite Care Provider
Childcare Workers:
- Median Wage: $35,300
- Active Job Ads: 263
TECHNICAL CAREERS
(Apprenticeship, Associate's Degree, Advanced Certification, Experience, etc.)
- Retail Play Consultant
- Children's Toy Designer
- Community-Based Family Program Coordinator
- Childcare Facility Director
- Early Intervention Program Aide
- Licensed Center Lead Teacher
- Coach for Children's Sports
- Developmental Specialist
- Children's Museum Assistant
- Early Head Start Teacher
- Early Childhood Curriculum Writer
- Children's Clothing Designer
Library Technicians:
- Median Wage $38,100
- Active Job Ads 3
PROFESSIONAL CAREERS
(Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D., Specialized Training, Experience, etc.)
- Elementary or Special Education Teacher
- School Counselor
- Pediatrics (Medical/Dental)
- Childcare Licensing Specialist
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Speech/Language Therapist
- Children with Disabilities Resource Consultant
- School Administrator
- Early Childhood Education Coordinator
- Children's Software Designer
- Children's Psychologist
- Play/Art Therapist
Elementary Teacher:
- Median Wage $50,100
- Active Job Ads 416