This two-year degree program is designed for the student who wishes to pursue a career in the growing fields of child care, early childhood education, special education, child and family social services and/or counseling.

Students may select one of three specializations:

• Childcare
• Early Childhood Education
• Social Services

Childcare graduates will be prepared to work as teachers in childcare settings, Headstart and other early intervention programs, and school readiness sites. Graduates of the Early Childhood Education track will be prepared to transfer to an elementary education baccalaureate degree or positions in pre-K, Kindergarten and public school programs. The Social Services track prepares students to work in a variety of government settings and/or transfer to a baccalaureate program.

Associate in Applied Science Degree Programs

• Child Development

One-Year Certificates

• Child Development Assistant

Career Information

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that education and education-related employment will increase by 19 percent between 2000 and 2010, faster than jobs overall. At the same time, many baby boomers in education will be reaching retirement age in coming years, meaning many openings for already-existing education positions.

Opportunities should be particularly plentiful in inner cities and rural areas and should also be plentiful in states experiencing rapid population growth.