Study Early Childhood Development: Degrees at a Glance
Through games and guided play that emphasize math, social skills and reading, early childhood professionals help young children learn and develop by stimulating a child's physical, emotional, intellectual and social growth. These professionals are also trained to work with children, parents and other adults who affect a child's development.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), favorable growth through the year 2020 is projected for the fields that employ early childhood development degree program graduates (www.bls.gov). Careers for graduates include teaching, childcare or engaging in social work. The BLS reports that employment opportunities should be greatest for individuals with training in special education.
| Associate's | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Those who wish to learn basic principles of childhood development or who intend to transfer to a four-year degree program | Individuals who intend to work as teachers or administrators in careers serving young children |
| Common career paths (with approximate annual median salary)* | - Teacher assistant ($24,000)* - Childcare worker ($19,000)* - Social or human service assistant ($29,000)* | - Social worker ($54,000)* - Special education teacher ($53,000)* - Kindergarten teacher ($50,000)* - Elementary school teacher ($53,000)* |
| Time to completion | 2 years, full time | 4 years, full time |
| Common graduation requirements | - Internship in a child care setting - First aid and CPR certification | - General and professional education courses - Acceptable GPA |
| Prerequisites | - Working with a child care center - Background check | - High school diploma, GED or associate's degree |
| Online availability | None at this time | None at this time |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2011 figures).
Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Development
For those who love children, an associate's degree in early childhood development opens the door to a career in caring for or teaching children. Career options for graduates of these degree programs include public school classroom assistants, childcare providers, family home visitors, early interventionists, social workers, health care professionals or child food program representatives. Because these professionals work with children, many degree programs require that applicants pass a background check prior to admission.
In their programs, many colleges and universities require you to work towards your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which proves your competency and knowledge about caring for and teaching young children. To earn your CDA, you must have extensive, documented experience working with children. Completing an internship in an associate's degree program will help you earn the hours you need for this credential.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Many degree programs will help you earn your CDA, which is required by some states and employers to work in the field
- Internships help get your foot in the door and provide you with hands-on experience
- Prepares you for a career in many different fields, such as teaching or childcare
Cons
- Some degree programs may require you to be currently working in a child care center
- Employers may not require a degree, just CDA certification
- May not prepare you for required state licensure
Courses and Requirements
Associate's degree programs in early childhood development teach you about general childcare and education. In addition to liberal arts courses, you may be required to take classes like:
- Infant/toddler growth and development
- Health, safety and nutrition education
- Guiding the behavior of children
- Child psychology
- Administration of child care programs
- Exceptional children
Online Degree Options
Currently, there are no online associate's degree programs available. This may be partially a result of the hands-on nature of the job. By completing an in-person program, you may complete any state-mandated hours of work experience required to become licensed. If your state does not require licensure, completing an in-person program will provide you with hands-on experience that may be attractive to employers.
Stand out with this Degree
If your degree program does not offer the CDA credential, it is a good idea to seek credentialing on your own. To do so, you must have work experience. Therefore, you should try to obtain an internship or entry-level position at a child care facility or school.
Bachelor's in Early Childhood Development
A bachelor's degree program in early childhood development can prepare you for a career in teaching or school administration. These degree programs may ask you to specialize in elementary or preschool teaching and prepare you to sit for teaching licensure exams.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provide training to teach a variety of different subjects, including reading, math, science and history
- Student teaching helps you learn how to work in a classroom
- Is the minimum required degree needed to work as a teacher in most states
Cons
- May focus heavily on teaching, which may not be your intended career path
- Unsuitable for some careers, such as those in social work, in which a Masters of Social Work is generally required for advancement
- Some states require teachers to have a master's degree
Courses and Requirements
In a child development bachelor's degree program, you are required to take general education courses such as mathematics, English and sociology. You will also complete a student teaching practicum. Courses you may take include:
- Cognitive development
- Educational play
- Language development
- History of childhood
- First aid
- Child psychology
Online Degree Options
Currently, bachelor's degree programs in early childhood development are unavailable. Attending an on-campus program will provide you with opportunities to work directly with children. This experience may make you more attractive to employers and satisfy any work hour requirements necessary for teaching licensure.
Stand out with this Degree
To stand out against your competition, consider specializing in special education. According to the BLS, enrollment of special education students in schools nationwide is expected to increase through 2020. Focusing on special education may increase your likelihood of finding employment immediately after graduation.
If you are interested in teaching, you might consider earning your teaching certificate while completing your bachelor's degree program curriculum. Some programs prepare you to sit for state teacher licensing exams immediately upon graduation. Attending one of these programs will decrease the amount of time spent between graduation and taking your teaching licensing exam, enabling you to seek employment faster.
