The Associate of Arts in Education provides a comprehensive background in developmental theory, emphasizing the practical application of theory to appropriate environments for culturally, linguistically, and developmentally diverse children. The program includes development from the physiological, psychological, cognitive, and sociological perspectives for children from birth through adolescence.

The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of adults working in various early childhood settings, including both public and private daycare homes, child development centers, kindergarten programs, Head Start, pre-school, and school-age care programs. The program complements the competency requirements for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and the standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Candidates must complete practicum and field experiences which are critical to many courses in the curriculum. Students enrolled in the AA program in Education must be admitted into the program while in the first education course ECED 104C. The admissions process includes completion of an application for admissions along with health, police, Child and Family Protective Services Registry, and federal fingerprinting clearances.

Special Notation: Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all required English and mathematics courses, and must have a 2.0 grade point average for graduation from the program. Only grades of “C” or better are transferrable to the Flagship campus.

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Apply the foundations of the education profession, content basis for curricula, and characteristics of diverse learners.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the philosophical, historical, sociological, legal, and psychological foundations of education.
• Demonstrate expertise in the content of the curricula, the appropriate uses of technology, interpersonal communication, and effective pedagogy.
• Show understanding and respect for the diversity and special needs of children.
• Conduct themselves as professional educators in planning and implementing integrated curricula by using developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive instructional strategies, materials, and technology.
• Be reflective, collaborative, and responsive decision-makers, facilitators, and change agents within the classroom, school, community, and global environment.
• Use feedback, reflection, research, and collaboration to enhance teaching performance, revise and refine instruction, develop and modify instruction, and grow as a professional.
• Model positive and effective interpersonal skills, understanding, respect, and appreciation of diverse educational, cultural, and socioeconomic groups.
• Be willing to consider diverse opinions and perspectives.

View Program of Study – Option I: Infant/Toddler (Ages birth to three) »
View Program of Study – Option II: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Grade 3)  »
View Program of Study – Option III: General Education (Elementary/Secondary) » – Program Currently Not Accepting New Students