Program Code: S.CHD.AAS
Graduation requirement: 60 credit hours
The Early Childhood Education program provides practical and hands-on learning experiences to prepare students to work in a variety of early childhood settings, from childcare centers and family homecare programs to schools from Pre-K to 2nd grade.
An associate’s degree in ECE is the first step to teaching young children in Illinois public schools, preschools, private elementary schools, and Head Start. Students will complete specific requirements and a minimum of 60 semester credit hours to earn both an associate’s degree and the Illinois Gateways Level 4 Early Childhood Education credential. Students can then transfer into a 4-year program in early childhood education as a junior, complete a bachelor’s degree, and gain the Illinois Professional Educator License to teach birth through 2nd grade.
The program also fulfills the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services requirements for head teachers in childcare centers and family home care programs, and students have the option of adding ECE 260 to complete Center Director requirements.
Courses are offered in hybrid and online formats to allow flexibility for working students.
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