EARLY CHILDHOOD
Program Description
Childcare has become a national priority. Along with the sweeping changes in the American family have come demands for quality early childhood education and care, resulting in the need for competent early childhood professionals. The Early Childhood program prepares students to assume responsible early childhood positions. Both degree and non-degree students, full or part-time, are welcome in this curriculum. Those interested may take 12 credit hours in the Early Childhood Department to meet New York State daycare regulations.
The Early Childhood Program consists of early childhood education courses, liberal arts courses and practical field experience with infants and young children. Students use their classroom learning in a series of laboratory experiences in a variety of early childhood education centers. The first two early childhood lab experiences are generally offered day and evening, depending on enrollment. The third lab and student teaching are offered only during the day; but the seminar portion for student teaching is now offered in the evenings, depending on the semester and need. Students working in the field may apply for a waiver/or LEAP credit for Labs I, II or III, depending on experience. All of the other required Early Childhood courses are offered during both the day and evening.
Graduates and students are employed in responsible early childhood positions in the community. These include, but are not limited to, positions in day care classrooms, preschool programs, nursery schools, Head Start, before and after-school programs, family day care programs, residential setting programs, special education programs, agencies specializing in the care of infants and young children and positions as nannies.
Transfer Agreements
The Erie Community College Early Childhood Department has transfer agreements with several area colleges. The agreements facilitate the transfer of Erie Community College Early Childhood graduates into designated four-year programs. They include Medaille College, Daemen College, SUNY at Buffalo, SUC at Buffalo and SUC at Fredonia.
Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Hegis: 5503
Curriculum Code: 0606
Campus Location: City
Business & Public Service Division