Early Childhood

Early childhood-the period from birth through age eight-is a distinct period of life that has value in itself as well as creating foundations for later years. (National Association for the Education of Young Children). According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of pre-school teachers is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2008-2018. Continued emphasis on the importance of early childhood education has led many states to offer full day and universal pre-school. This program provides job-related skills that are in high demand.

The early childhood degree program provides coursework and field experience to help you be a knowledgeable and competent early childhood professional. You will learn a philosophy of teaching and learning, child development, and how to design and provide experiences for children in science, social studies, literature, math, music, and art.

The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of working early childhood professionals who need further education, and the needs of recent high school graduates who wish to pursue a career in the early childhood field.

Field Experience

Extensive field experience is a vital and required piece of the early childhood degree. You will complete a minimum 112 hours of supervised field experience in a licensed or certified day care center, pre-kindergarten - 2nd grade, or nursery school. In addition, ECHD 206 requires a minimum 45 hours of supervised field experience.

Degree Requirements

  • Early Childhood, A.A.S.
  • Microcredential: Early Childhood Assistant
    • ECHD 125           Introduction to Early Childhood Education
    • ECHD 110           Children and the Arts
    • ECHD 206           Infant/Toddler Environments and Curriculum 
    • ECHD 225           Early Childhood Curriculum Development

Careers on Career Coach

The early childhood degree program provides in-demand skills. Graduates of this program are prepared for positions as teachers at a child care center or nursery school, family child care providers, family workers, and teacher’s assistants in special education, elementary school, or Head Start. Learn more about related jobs:  

Program Chair

Faculty - Anna Regula

Anna Regula

Professor

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Transfer Options

Among transfer options are programs offered at:

  • SUNY College at Cortland
  • Elmira College
  • Ithaca College
  • SUNY New Paltz
  • Keuka College
  • Roberts Wesleyan College

Student Showcase