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Early Childhood Education, AAS
The Early Childhood Education program provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to create environments that will maximize the developmental and learning potential of all young children (birth to age 8) using developmentally appropriate practices as a foundation for program planning. Issues of diversity, inclusion, and professionalism are intricately woven throughout the coursework. Students will gain experience and knowledge through hands-on participation in early education settings. Upon completion of this program, students will be able to
- Apply child development theory to practice;
- Observe, record, and assess child growth and development;
- Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum;
- Incorporate developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed, resilience-building, guidance strategies;
- Integrate health, safety, and nutrition practices according to local, state, and national standards;
- Provide a respectful, diverse, and inclusive program;
- Use interpersonal skills to develop respectful relationships with children and adults;
- Demonstrate professional and ethical standards; and
- Advocate for children, families, and the profession.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
Required Courses
First Year
Fall Semester
First Semester Total: 17
Spring Semester
Second Semester Total: 15
Second Year
Fall Semester
- OR
First Semester Total: 14
Spring Semester
Second Semester Total: 14
Total Credits: 60
Program Information
- Many EDEC courses are offered alternate spring semesters, with the exception of EDEC 295x and EDEC 295y, which is offered every spring. Most EDEC fall courses are offered every fall. Please check with your advisor to ensure you are planning appropriately.
- If transferring to a Bachelor's program, additional requirements for general education may be required.
Opportunities after Graduation
- The demand for well-educated early childhood educators continues to increase. Program graduates are qualified to practice in a variety of early education and care settings, including early childhood education programs, child care centers, family home care settings, preschools, and public school classrooms as primary grade para-educators. Continued education and experience provides opportunities to become teacher trainers, early childhood consultants, early education specialists, and program administrators.
- The AAS degree in Early Childhood Education articulates into UM-Western's BS program in Early Childhood Education and/or Pre-K-3 Education and Salish Kootenai College's Early Childhood Education BS program.
Advising Information:
Academic Advisor | Faculty Advisor |
---|---|
Jori Bullemer | Eliza Thomas, M.A. |
LRC 129 | BSS 120 |
(406) 756-3905 | (406) 756-4865 |
jbullemer@fvcc.edu | ethomas@fvcc.edu |