Early Childhood Education Degree

The College of Education at Independence University specializes in early childhood education. One of society's most vital needs is the care and education of young children. Independence University's commitment to supporting children and their learning is shown through our memberships in organizations dedicated to the field, for example the National Association for the Education of Young Children, National Head Start Association, National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators, and the Professional Association for Childhood Education. Professionals in the daycare industry or working as preschool teachers may meet necessary licensing requirements through completion of the A.S. in Early Childhood Education.

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education

Graduates of the Early Childhood Education program will demonstrate:

• Functional knowledge and understanding of early childhood education through completion of courses covering curriculum, child development, child center administration, health and safety, and related fields.

• General knowledge of science, social science, and language arts expected of someone who has earned a degree

• Commitment to active participation as professionals in the field.

The U. S. Department of Labor notes that an increasing number of employers prefer to hire child care workers who have achieved an associate degree in early childhood education. Opportunities for teacher assistant jobs are expected to grow, and to be better for persons with at least 2 years of formal education after high school. Child care workers will also continue to be in demand, as high replacement needs create good job opportunities.

State or local regulations which require a certain ratio of workers to children also impact the growth rate in child care jobs. Child care positions are generally hourly, with a median salary of $8.06 per hour in May 2004. Higher educational achievements translate to higher salaries in this field, according to the Department of Labor.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook , 2006-07 Edition , Child Care Workers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos170.htm (visited January 30, 2006 ).

 

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