Early Childhood Education Career Degree
Want a career working with children?
If you have a passion for working with children, a career in Early Childhood Education (ECE) may be the perfect fit for you. The SWIC ECE Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree and certificate program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for in-demand careers in child care centers, preschools, and other early learning environments. You’ll gain a strong foundation in child development theories, developmentally appropriate practices, strategies for adapting to children with special needs, and techniques for building strong relationships with families. Additionally, the AAS degree prepares you for seamless transfer to a four-year program, helping you continue your education toward a bachelor’s degree in the field.
Southwestern Illinois College is an entitled institution through Gateways to Opportunity: Illinois Professional Development Program.
The ECE AAS degree offers the following:
- ECE Credential Levels 2-4
- Infant Toddler Credential Level 2
- Illinois Director Credential I
For more information regarding credentials, please visit Gateways to Opportunity: Illinois Professional Development Program.
Additional resources available free to current students at the SWIC Library.
Early Childhood Education Career Opportunities
- Head Start teacher
- Child care worker
- Child care director
Get Started
For more information, please contact the program coordinator, or fill out the form on the contact page.
Yvette Schultz, MA
ECE Program Coordinator
yvette.schultz@swic.edu
618-222-5593
BCLA 2022