Education: Early Childhood Studies

Program Description:

The Education: Early Childhood Studies Program prepares students to work in a variety of early childhood settings. Curriculum is influenced by researched based constructivist theories including Piaget and Vygotsky as well as principles of developmentally appropriate practice. Field experiences are included at all levels of courses in a variety of settings with diverse populations. Students in practicum settings develop and implement a curriculum that fosters the physical, cognitive, language, social/emotional, and aesthetic growth of the young child. Students will observe, document and, responsibly and authentically assess young children. Positive and reciprocal relationships with families are emphasized.

Program Outcomes:

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

1. Communicate their knowledge of child development.

2. Develop respectful and reciprocal relationships with families and the community.

3. Use responsible observation and documentation for authentic assessment of children’s abilities to share with families and guide curriculum.

4. Demonstrate their ability to plan environments and programing that is inclusive and developmentally appropriate for every child.

5. Engage in continual professional development and become advocates for children, families, colleagues and the profession.

Requirements & Specific Information:

Students are required to have a criminal background check, DHS clearance, and a physical with a TB test before beginning field or practicum experiences. Student health care is not provided by the college or observation or practicum site.

Accreditation:

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Education-Early Childhood Studies Program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 1313 L St. NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20005, 202.232.8777, www.naeyc.org.

Career Opportunities:

Education: Early Childhood Studies-Associate of Applied Science: Job titles such as Childcare Center Director, Preschool Teacher, Teacher Assistant, and Child Caregiver are attainable upon completion of this course of study. To learn more from a career specialist, visit the Office of Career Services at either campus or explore online at www.onetonline.org.

Transfer Pathways:

Students intending to transfer and complete a bachelor’s degree need to make early decisions concerning an academic major and a transfer destination. Statistics show that students who make these decisions early are more likely to persist to graduation than their undecided counterparts. Students planning to transfer credits earned at Macomb are strongly urged to see a counselor or academic advisor as early as possible in their college careers.

Students who plan to transfer for a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood or to use the Early Childhood Studies Degree as a major or minor in a teaching certificate program will need to work with a counselor or an academic advisor to fulfill specific general education requirements for their intended university. It is important to note that teacher education programs are highly selective. Academic performance at Macomb (GPA) will be a significant factor to admission to a university program.

• Transfer Resource Guide
• Transfer Plan Database

Programs

• Education: Early Childhood Studies, AAS (full-time)
• Education: Early Childhood Studies, AAS (part-time)