Early Childhood Education

For more information on the Education - Early Childhood program, please contact the program coordinator, Carolyn Beal at 618-235-2700, ext. 5593 or carolyn.beal@swic.edu

A Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education will provide a person with the skills and knowledge to work with children from birth to third grade. Career opportunities include but are not limited to early childhood educator, parent education coordinator, social service coordinator, and program administrator. Students intending to find employment after completing a two-year degree should follow the Early Childhood Education Associate in Applied Science program.

This program is designed to prepare students to work with young children in various early childhood settings. Students will receive instruction in theories of child development, developmentally appropriate practice, adapting for children with special needs, and establishing relationships with parents. Many of the courses in this program apply towards the first two years of a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education.

Career Opportunities

Public school individual/classroom aide
Early childhood special education aide
Headstart teacher

Child Care worker (certificate with one year experience or Associate in Applied Science degree).
Child Care director (Associate of Applied Science degree).