Early Childhood Education

AAS = Associate of Applied Science
TC = Technical Certificate
CP = Certificate of Proficiency

Degree Plan

The Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education is a terminal degree program.

Campuses Offered At

= Beebe

= Heber Springs

Related Degrees

Program Outcomes

Understand state and federal laws pertaining to the care and education of young children.
Apply current research in early childhood education and abide by the National Association for the Education of Young Children Code of Conduct.
Demonstrate competencies compatible with current research and practice relating to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) associate degree standards.
Demonstrate proficiency in working with diverse populations of students, families and community groups.
Observe and evaluate children’s development and recognize developmental delays.
Create developmentally appropriate experiences for children from birth through pre-K, including children with special needs.
Develop staff and parental relationship skills and knowledge to be an effective director or leader in early childhood education.
Analyze challenging behavior and take appropriate actions.

Related Careers

Child care instructor
Home day care director
Child care facility director/owner
Corporate child care facility manager

Costs & Fees

Tuition Calculator

Scholarships

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship

Arkansas Future Grant

Transfer Options

The Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education is a two-year terminal degree. However, Harding University offers a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education for students who wish to continue. Some colleges in the state, including Arkansas State University, offer an Early Childhood Teaching Endorsement (ages 3 and 4). Arkansas also has a post-bachelor's credentialing/licensure program in pre-K.