The Early Childhood Education program is designed for students interested in entering the childcare field or upgrading current skills. This program provides the academic background and practical experience for people interested in careers in education, including infant, toddler, preschool/pre-K, and school-age child care in early childhood centers, family child care homes, parent education, and early childhood program supervision. The classes will include practicum experience in a Child Development Center.
Certificates and Degrees
Spoon River College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, as well as Assistant Teacher and Early Childhood Educator certificates. The completion of the Early Childhood Education program will prepare the student with the skills necessary to understand how to provide developmentally appropriate interactions and learning experiences for young children.
- Associate in Applied Science Degree Plan
- Assistant Teacher Certificate
- Early Childhood Educator Certificate
Nature of Work
Employment opportunities for graduates of the early childhood education program are very positive, whether pursuing a career in group day care, preschool settings or family care. Because of the rapid growth in group care/education, the need for excellence in child care providers is of critical importance. This program is part of the Education & Training Career Cluster.
Scholarships Opportunities:
If you work or have worked in early childhood education and you are looking to achieve additional credentials or a degree in early childhood education, you may be eligible for the Illinois Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Scholarship Program. Scholarships cover your total cost of attendance for an academic year (including summer) after the other financial aid received. For more information, visit the Illinois Student Assistance Commission website!
Credit for Prior Learning
Child Development Associate (CDA):
- A student that has been awarded a valid and current CDA, is eligible to receive credit for 2 Early Childhood Education (ECE) courses
- ECE courses include ECE100- Introduction to Early Childhood and ECE123- Health, Safety, and Nutrition