Associate of Science - Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education (ECE) is the study of child development and developmentally appropriate practices for young children. Career paths chosen by students pursuing undergraduate studies in ECE commonly include infant/toddler or preschool teachers and administrators. Careers in the discipline that generally require graduate-level degrees include teachers and administrators of government funded programs like Head Start and state preschools. Even students who choose not to major in ECE find that coursework in the field improves their parenting skills.

College of the Desert’s ECE curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline, as well as teaching strategies that are developmentally appropriate for young children. Students earning an associate’s degree in ECE may pursue entry-level positions as preschool teachers or may choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor’s or graduate degree. COD has transfer agreements with CSUSB, in this discipline/program. However, transfer requirements at four-year colleges and universities tend to vary from institution to institution; students should consult with a counselor for specific information regarding the transfer requirements of their preferred college or university.

The Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education for employment preparation provides a clearly articulated curricular track for students who wish to pursue employment in early childhood education while also serving the diverse needs of students interested in the breadth and depth of the field of early childhood education. Additionally, this degree exposes students to the core principles and practices of the field in order to build a foundation for their future personal, academic, or vocational paths. The degree was designed to facilitate students’ successful pursuit in a variety of careers in Early Childhood Education such as Assistant Teacher, Teacher, Child Development Specialist.  This degree requires students to complete 60 units of course work including completion of 25 units in the major with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better. Students should consult with a counselor for educational planning or an advisor for more information on the degree and permit opportunities. Graduates with this degree will meet the requirements for a Site Supervisor permit in child development issued by the California Teacher Credentialing Commission.