What skills do students learn in this program?
The Early Childhood Care and Education associate degree program emphasizes a combination of early childhood care and education theory and practical application as well as general core competencies necessary for successful employment. Graduates of this program will receive one of five areas of specialization: exceptionalities, infant/toddler, program administration, paraprofessional/school age, or family child care.
What types of students thrive in the program and in this career field? Those who:
- gain an understanding of child growth and development
- have knowledge of safety and the health of children
- explore ways to contribute to the academic, emotional and physical growth of all children ages birth through age 8
- enjoy working with young children
- consider themselves responsible, creative and energetic
- view themselves as flexible, nurturing and patient
What types of jobs are available to graduates of the program? Where can they work?
Graduates have qualifications to be employed in early care and education settings including child care centers, Head Start, Georgia Pre-K programs and elementary school paraprofessional positions. Additionally, students graduating with the associate degree are able to articulate their credits into a university Teacher Preparation Program to further their studies.