Early Childhood Development, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science
636

Purpose: This curriculum is designed to enable graduates to qualify as directors, assistant directors, teachers, assistant teachers, or as classroom aides in programs for young children. The curriculum has been established to provide competency in areas documented by Virginia’s Competencies for Early Childhood Professionals: health, safety and nutrition, understanding child growth and development, appropriate child observation and assessment, partnering with families and community, learning environment, effective interactions, program management, teacher qualifications and professional development.

Program Objectives: Employment opportunities include positions in childcare centers, Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms, family day care homes, preschool programs, centers for children with special needs, residential childcare facilities and industry associated centers. Program graduates are also qualified for positions as elementary school or Head Start teacher assistants.

Program graduates are also prepared to transfer to a participating four year institution for VA teacher licensure pre-k to grade 3.

Admission Requirements: Applicants must meet the requirements for admission to credit-level coursework established by the college.

Developmental Requirements: Students who do not place into college-level English will be required to take developmental courses.

Students who do not demonstrate proficiency in MTE 1* , MTE 2* , MTE 3* , MTE 4*  and MTE 5*  will be required to complete developmental courses.

It is strongly recommended that developmental education requirements be completed as soon as possible.

Program Notes: To be eligible for placement in CHD 165/CHD 265 students must:

• Submit to and have no findings for The State of Virginia Criminal History & Sex Offenders Records Check (SP-167) and the Virginia Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry. Students must also sign and complete the Sworn Statement or Affirmation for Child Day Programs.
• Submit documentation of a negative TB screening.

Each student is responsible for any fees or costs associated with background checks. Students are responsible for transportation to and from field sites used for laboratory experiences. Inability to complete the above or contrary results will disqualify the student from completing the course and the program.

AAS degrees prepare students for direct employment upon completion of the degree. However, many programs may also transfer to four-year institutions. Students interested in transferring should verify program requirements with specific four-year institutions.