Education and Social Sciences - 25EA - Early Childhood Education

The Associate of Applied Science Degree program in Early Childhood Education prepares students for careers working with young children. Graduates of the program are DCFS- qualified to be lead teachers and directors in early childhood centers and school-age programs. Public school Pre-K programs may employ A.A.S. degree graduates as assistant teachers. Many of the required courses may transfer to four-year institutions with related programs. ECE 121, ECE 124, ECE 214, ECE 220, ECE 248, ECE 250 and ECE 252 require daytime field observation or classroom experience hours may require a current Illinois State Police criminal background check and/ or current medical documentation. Check individual catalog course descriptions and catalog information or contact the Early Childhood Education Department Chair for further guidance. After completion of this A.A.S. degree program, interested students will need to complete applications for the Illinois Gateways to Opportunity to qualify and receive the Level 4 Infant/Toddler Credential and the Level 4 ECE Credential. See Department Chair for more information.

 To complete an A.A.S., students are strongly encouraged to meet with an Academic Success Advisor to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements