Early Childhood Education, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Contact Information: Program Office 615-353-3400, Program Site
Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC Early Childhood Associate Degree Accreditation)

Early Childhood Education prepares the student for employment in the field of early childhood education. The program includes theoretical and practical components, preparing early education professionals to work effectively with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and primary age children birth through age eight.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• Promoting child development and learning,
• Building family/teacher and community connections,
• Observing, documenting, and assessing to support young children and families
• Using developmentally appropriate practice,
• Using content knowledge to build meaningful curriculum
• Becoming a professional

 

Admission Requirements

Students must meet regular degree-seeking admission requirements for A.A.S. Degree programs.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver appropriate programming for young children (birth through age 8) and their families. Working in early childhood settings requires a background check. Students pursuing a career in early childhood education will complete a background check prior to employment.

Practicum Courses

• All courses are available online except for Initial Practicum and Final Practicum. Students who wish to register for the practicum courses (ECED 2335 or ECED 2365) should contact an advisor for information about fieldwork requirements prior to enrolling.

Grading Policy

A grade of “C” or above must be earned in all early childhood courses prior to graduation. The student majoring in ECED must receive a “C” or above in each course in order to meet prerequisite requirements for subsequent courses.

Background Check

Students who wish to become employed in early childhood programs licensed by Department of Human Services, State of Tennessee must undergo a criminal history and abuse registry background check. Tennessee law requires a satisfactory background check prior to employment. This is initiated by the employer, and may be required prior to placement in practicum courses

Transfer/Advising

The A.A.S. degree is designed to prepare a student for employment upon graduation. Some universities, at their discretion, accept some technical courses for transfer. A student who plans to transfer to a university should consult his/her advisor and the receiving university about transfer and articulation policies. Failure to do so could result in loss of transfer credits.