EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Effective: WINTER 2010

Degrees and Certificates - Click for Program Outline:

• AAS - SFCC
• Certificate - SFCC

Enrollment: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Program Description

The Early Childhood Education program provides experiences in educational theory in the areas of social, emotional, cognitive, physical/motor and creative development for children from birth through age 8. Courses also are available for caregivers of school-age children, ages 5 through 14 years. Now that ongoing research reveals the significance of early development, professional preparation has become essential to anyone pursuing a career in the education and care of young children. Courses are based on the Washington State Skill Standards and are offered day, evening and online.

SFCC Early Childhood Education program options:

• Certificates of Specialization (20-30 credits) - eight certificates that focus on a specific area of study.
• Early Childhood Education Certificate (57-60 credits) - contains the ECED core content courses. Valid first aid card required for certificate.
• Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree (90-93 credits) - contains the same course work as the ECED certificate above, plus supporting courses and electives which may be modified for articulation into a BA degree.
• Associate of Applied Science Transfer degree (AAS-T) (91-92 credits) -contains ECED core content with the option to transfer to accepting four-year schools.
• Associate of Arts (AA) degree (90 credits) - includes 15 credits of electives in ECED that transfers to four-year schools.
• Articulation with area high schools articulates college credits for completion of specified high school ECED courses.
• State Training and Registry System (STARS) Accepts college credits to meet STARS requirements.

Program Goals

1. Students will demonstrate proficiency in the seven Critical Work Functions for the Washington State Skill Standards for the Lead Early Childhood Teacher.
2. Students will demonstrate proficiency in both written and oral communication.
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to manage resources relevant to the Early Childhood Education profession.

Career Opportunities

Outlook for employment in this field is excellent due to current research and recognition of the importance of early development and learning. The SFCC early childhood education program has achieved recognition in our community and region. Regional employers contact our program seeking educated early childhood employees for positions such as: lead teacher, family child care provider, school-age care provider, teacher's aide/assistant, program specialist, parent-school liaison, program supervisor, early education coordinator, center director/manager, assistant director/manager, foster care provider.