Schoolcraft program code #AAS.00020
To work effectively with children, early childhood educators must be sensitive to and understand the developmental stages of children. This curriculum contains theoretical and practical experiences to prepare students to work in early childhood programs in a variety of settings. The required field experiences expose students to best practices in early childhood education.
Students who satisfactorily complete all college and program requirements qualify for an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Prior to the start of field placement hours, interviews at sites where children are present, observations, service-learning experiences, or practicums, students must:
- have a clear criminal background check
- obtain Michigan Central Registry Clearance from the Michigan Department of Human Services
- obtain a current TB test
Students who are not cleared through a criminal background check and by the Michigan Department of Human Services will not be permitted in the ECE programs. Some field placement/practicum sites may have additional requirements prior to starting an experience/practicum.
Students are expected to follow the ECE program policies, abide by the National Association for the Education of Young Children Code of Ethical Conduct, follow field placement policies and conduct themselves appropriately in the presence of children, families, and professionals during field placements/practicums.
In order to receive an Early Childhood Education AAS Degree students need to obtain a grade of 2.0 or higher in ECE 135 , ECE 145 , and ECE 265 .
Program Outcomes
- Integrate child development and learning
- Support effective family and community relationships
- Demonstrate the ability to observe, document, and assess children
- Model developmentally effective teaching approaches
- Build meaningful curriculum using content knowledge
- Perform with professionalism in the field of education
- Defend the Child Protection Law and mandated reporting of suspected abuse and neglect
- Demonstrate current content knowledge in the field of education
- Demonstrate effective practices in the field of education
Related Program Opportunities
See Additional Early Childhood Education Programs
Career Information
Explore career choices, wages, job opportunities, and more: Career Coach - Education - Early Childhood Education AAS Degree
Creating Your Academic Plan
Not all courses are offered each semester. Students should work with an academic advisor to develop a plan of study. Students planning to transfer are advised to check the transfer institution’s requirements/guides and discuss their options with an academic advisor. Number of credits may vary depending on the course selection.
