Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education program will provide you with the key courses to understand the basics of educating children under five as part of the 2-semester certificate. If your goal is to work as a pre-school teacher and possibly move on to complete a 4-year program, the Associates program covers topics ranging from program management and supervision to working with different populations.  

As a preschool teacher, you play an important role in assisting a child to gain success in their first years of school, laying the foundation for kids to understand what “school” actually is through classroom or one-on-one instruction. Your role in the child’s life extends to the parents. The program provides ways to assess a child’s progress and engage their parents in ways to influence a child’s life positively.

What’s the Job Outlook for Pre-School Teachers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for preschool teachers is projected to grow 15% from 2021-2031. 

The following positions are similar occupations:

  • Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher
  • Teacher Assistant
  • Preschool and Childcare Director

Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Pre-School Teachers

20+
Credits Required to Complete Early Childhood Education Short-Term Certificate
63
credits required to complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in the Early Childhood Education Program
$ 30,210
median annual wage for preschool teachers

Where is the Early Childhood Education Associates in Applied Science (AAS) and Short-Term Certificate Program Offered?

The Early Childhood Education Associates in Applied Science (AAS) and Short-Term Certificate program is offered at our Curtis L. Ivery Downtown and Northwest campus. As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.

What are my Transfer Pathway Options?

Transfer pathways help demonstrate how the courses you completed at Wayne County Community College District are a foundation for a bachelor’s degree at a 4-year college or university. WCCCD has transfer pathways (also known as transfer/articulation agreements) in place that allow for greater acceptance of programs and courses to bachelor’s degree programs.

A transfer pathway includes:

  • Indiana Wesleyan University: Early Childhood Education – Non Licensure (online only) (BS)



Recommended course sequence: Early Childhood Education, A.A.S.

Recommended course sequence: Early Childhood Education: CDA, SCERT

Educational Affairs Contact Information

Phone: 313-496-2600

Email: edaffairs@wcccd.edu