The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program educates and trains students in developmentally appropriate practice guided by principles established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children to work with children from infancy through middle childhood. Through a broad range of theoretical perspectives, students examine child growth and development, gain experience in observation and assessment, use of appropriate guidance techniques, understand child health safety and nutrition, learn to plan and implement curriculum and demonstrate knowledge of state licensing regulations for child care and development programs. The Early Childhood Education Program prepares students to teach in infant/toddler, preschool, child care, and development programs. It also prepares students to transfer to four-year institutions and to participate in the broader society as child advocates. The program curriculum is aligned with the Child Development Permit Matrix and with the Curriculum Alignment Project.

Job Titles and Career Information

Studying Early Childhood Education can lead to a variety of different jobs or careers. Click on a job title to find out career information such as average salaries, employment rates and more!

See the Employment Requirements, Labor Market Information and the Child Development Permit Matrix for qualifications to work in most Early Childhood Education Environments.

Early Childhood Education courses provide foundational and global perspectives of children and childhood. Those who are pursuing a career may choose to complete a certificate or one of two associate degrees. The Associate in Science for Transfer was specifically designed for students planning to transfer to a California State University.

Certificate and Degree Options

Certificates

  • Early Childhood Education Associate Teacher Certificate of Achievement
  • Early Childhood Education Master Teacher Certificate of Achievement
  • Early Childhood Education Site Supervisor Certificate of Achievement
  • Early Childhood Education Teacher Certificate of Achievement
  • ECE Administration and Adult Supervision Add On Certificate of Achievement
  • Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate of Achievement

Degrees

  • Early Childhood Education, AA
  • Early Childhood Education, AS-T

For certificate and degree requirements, please visit the College Catalog.

Helpful Links

Early Childhood Education Program Contact

For more information, please contact the Department Chair, Angela Beyer DaCruz.