Early Childhood Assistant
This program is designed to give you a very specific set of skills to level up your career and employability.
What You'll Learn
Build expertise in child development and inclusive learning environments.
Gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to support teachers and young children in early learning settings. Coursework covers child development, health and safety, and effective classroom communication. You’ll learn how to assist with planning lessons, guiding play, and maintaining nurturing environments that foster growth and learning. This program prepares you for positions in childcare centers, preschools, or Head Start programs—and serves as a pathway to advanced early childhood education studies.
Program Requirements
| Duration | Format | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Semesters | Various | 13 |
Additional Notes:
- At least fifty percent (50%) of required courses must be taken through Tompkins Cortland Community College (not via transfer credit, testing, or experiential learning).
- A minimum number of unique courses/credits are not required to earn an additional, similar, microcredential.
- In accord with existing college policy, no more than six credits may be taken for a pass/fail grade.
- Course substitutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis using the existing Course Waiver process.
- Eligible non-matriculated students registering for this microcredential may qualify for Part-Time TAP for Non-Degree Credentials for up to 11 credits per semester. Apply for Financial Aid today and link directly from your FAFSA summary page to complete the NYS TAP application.
- Eligible students registering for this microcredential may also qualify for federal aid through the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA). Students living in Tompkins and Cortland counties should email Financial Aid.
| CourseID | Course Name | Credits | Minimum Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECHD 110 | Children and the Arts | 3 | C |
| ECHD125 or HUMS125 | Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 | C |
| ECHD 206 | Infant/Toddler Environments & Curriculum | 4 | C |
| ECHD 225 OR HUMS 225 | Early Childhood Curriculum Development | 3 | C |
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Attend a Discovery Day!
Curious about TC3? Discovery Days give you an inside look at our campus, programs, and an opportunity to connect with the staff and faculty who are here to support you. Click the link below to register for our Psychology, Education, and Criminal Justice Discovery Day!
Take on as much (or as little) as you want. Our microcredentials and certificates provide you with credits to apply to 2-year programs – when you’re ready!