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Purpose: The two-year degree program in Early Childhood Development is designed to prepare students with skills and theoretical knowledge related to the care, supervision, education and development of young children from birth to age twelve. Upon successful completion of the curriculum, students will be prepared to seek employment in a variety of positions in the childcare field.

Occupational Objectives: Employment of childcare workers is projected to increase 10 to 20 percent through the year 2010 according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Graduates can seek employment as childcare center directors, assistant directors, teachers and teacher aides, camp directors, family day care providers, before and after school teachers, and playroom attendants in the following types of facilities: child day care centers, nursery schools, family day care centers, children’s hospitals, Head Start centers, employer-provided childcare facilities, recreational facilities, before and after school programs, and public schools.

Admission Requirements: General college curricular admission

Program Notes: In addition to the general college curricular admission requirements, all entering students will be required to take placement tests in math, writing and reading to aid placement in the appropriate courses. Students who do not meet required placement levels must enroll in developmental studies courses. It is recommended that students arrange for a personal interview and advising appointment with the program head.

It is recommended that students take courses in the sequence listed in the catalog. Students must attain a grade of "C" or higher in all courses with CHD, HLT, PSY, and EDU prefixes.

A field internship in an approved childcare center is required. It is a planned learning experience for the purpose of pulling together theories and practices learned in the classroom. Students should have completed at least 18 credits of CHD courses before enrolling in the coordinated internships. A Criminal Record Clearance/Sex Offender Registry check is required for placement and volunteering. Students should see the program head for a list of convictions that will prevent employment. Student will be expected to complete a tuberculosis test before internship placement.

Students must have a valid first aid and CPR certification in order to be eligible for graduation. Valid cards must be filed with the program head or central admissions office prior to graduation and expiration.

Computer Competency Requirement: Students in this program will meet the college’s computer competency requirement by successfully completing ITE 115. Students can also meet this requirement by passing the college’s computer competency exam, administered in the testing centers on each campus, in which case they will receive college credit for ITE 115. Students not passing the computer competency exam may retake the exam only once.