The Early Care and Education Associate Degree in Applied Science program is designed to prepare individuals for employment in a variety of educational and child care programs for children from birth through school age. Recent research and interest in the importance of education of children during the first three years of life has provided for a growing number of new opportunities in the field. Graduates are prepared to assume positions in programs such as Head Start, Early Head Start, public schools, childcare, after-school care, public or private preschools or kindergartens, or working with children with special needs.
Courses in the program are available in a variety of formats.
Students entering this program of study must furnish a copy of High School Diploma or GED Certificate.
The Associate Degree in Applied Science with a major in Early Care and Education does not lead to teacher licensure, but opportunities for transfer to senior colleges and universities are available. The T.E.A.C.H. South Carolina Scholarship program may be available for persons already employed in child care.
*Required for student to obtain the South Carolina Early Childhood Credential.
**Required for students to obtain the South Carolina School-Age Credential
***Intended for those desiring to transfer.
This program is aligned with the following career cluster: Education & Training.
The Associate of Applied Science in Early Care and Education is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The current accreditation term runs from June 2021 through July 2028.
Click here for Candidate Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Click here for NAEYC Data Report
