This program is designed to prepare students to educate and care for young children in a variety of settings. We support those currently employed in early care and education in enhancing their skills and achieving their educational goals. Students may be eligible for the T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) scholarship program. While the credentials are provided by other organizations, our college course work meets requirements outlined by the awarding entities for the National Child Development Associate (CDA), the Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC), and the Florida Director Credential. Acceptance of these credentials in lieu of completion of courses is available to students who have completed 12 credits at FSW. Those who wish to earn an A.S. may include the coursework for these credentials as part of their degree. Students in this program participate in comprehensive courses that are centered on the development of children from birth through age eight years. The study of research and theory is blended with many opportunities for hands-on experiences, as well as practical experience in the field. Completion of the A.S. qualifies students to serve as the Lead Teacher in a Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten, a paraprofessional within the public schools, and a teacher within other early care and education settings.
Program Highlights:
The AS in Early Childhood Education equips students to become reflective and transformative educators. An emphasis on relationships between children, families, and communities in our diverse world is central to the framework of our courses and experiences. The opportunity to build a foundation of practical experience with young children in a variety of educational settings allows our students to be well prepared to enter the work force. Our students get to practice what they learn, and learn from the teachers in the field. Our faculty all have extensive experience and education in Early Childhood Education to teach in a way that complements students’ Field Experience. Students are supported in completing their courses on a full-time or part-time basis. All courses are available online, which allows great flexibility. Courses are offered in face-to-face, online, or a blend of the two formats. Partnering professional development sites offering high quality early care and education serve as placements for field experiences for our students. Service learning and professional advocacy are also important elements of development for the educators we graduate.
Admission Requirements:
Students must fulfill the entrance requirements for Florida SouthWestern State College. To declare Early Childhood Education as a major, students are required to complete an orientation session with the School of Education’s Student Success Advisor. Appointments can be made by emailing schoolofeducation@fsw.edu.
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