Oct 03, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Catalog

Education - Early Childhood Education AAS Degree


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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/SPE programs. Some field placement/practicum sites may have additional requirements prior to starting an experience/practicum.

Students are expected to follow the ECE/SPE 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 .

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.

Sample Schedule of Courses


First Year


Second Year


Total Credits: 17-19

Total Credits: 14-16

Program Total: 60-67 Credits


* 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 .
** If a student possesses a Child Development Associate Certification from the Council for Professional Recognition (https://www.cdacouncil.org/) in either the Preschool or Infant Toddler content area, they may be eligible to earn Prior Learning Assessment credit for ECE 100 , ECE 110 , ECE 120 , and either ECE 135 - Preschool Education with Field Experiences  or ECE 145 - Infant and Toddler Education with Field Experiences . Please consult the Program Director for more information
.

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