Early Childhood Education

Program Goals

1. Provide the necessary education and experiences in child development, educational theory, diversity, and community relations to prepare students for employment in the early childhood profession.
2. Improve students’ theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to be successful teacher’s assistants, teachers, and administrators.
3. Support student transfer and acceptance to accredited teacher preparation programs in Illinois
4. Program standards and course objectives are aligned to:
   • NAEYC Standards for Early Childhood Professional Preparation
   • IL Gateways ECE and ITC credentials 2-4
   • IL DCFS requirements for Early Childhood employment
   • Illinois Professional Teaching Standards

Completion of the Associate of Applied Science degree in early childhood education and Illinois Gateways ECE Credential Level 4 will deem a student eligible for transfer into an ECE baccalaureate program at an Illinois public university with junior status. For additional information and requirements, please contact Advising.