Early Childhood Education

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Early Childhood Education

If you can see yourself making a difference in the life of a child, one of our Early Childhood Education degrees or certifications will help make that dream come true. Haywood Community College’s program offers students the ability to combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children. Students will learn to foster development and growth within children on a variety of levels. Graduates will be prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in the path and age group they choose. We offer three degree pathways and three certificates to pursue an education in Early Childhood Education.

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Mission Statement for Early Childhood Education:

Haywood Community College’s Early Childhood Program graduates knowledgeable professionals who have the essential skills and field experiences to effectively educate typically and atypically developing children while supporting diverse families and communities and advocating for the profession.

conceptual model how children learn and play with building blocks

Highlights of the Program

  • EDU 119 is offered in a short semester format
  • Physical/nutritional needs
  • Developmentally appropriate practice
  • Safety issues
  • Social/emotional development
  • Language development
  • Cognitive and physical development
  • Creativity
  • Developmental theories
  • Competency and evidence-based professional knowledge
  • Administrative skills
  • Leadership qualities
  • The North Carolina laws and rules for early education are discussed.
  • This is a perfect program for those already in childhood education looking to expand their knowledge base and opportunities.
  • Students receive valuable work experience to use in your current role. 
  • Imbedded workforce credentials following the NC Division of Child Development guidelines are targeted with our degrees and certificates.
  • Credentials can be earned to start your own business.
  • Certificates can be completed in two semesters

Degrees/Certificates

  • Associate in Applied Science Early Childhood Education: Birth-Kindergarten Licensure Transfer Track 
  • Associate in Applied Science Early Childhood Education: Early Education Non-Licensure Transfer Track 
  • Associate in Applied Science Early Childhood Education: Career Option (Non-Transfer) 
  • Certificate in Early Childhood Administration 
  • Certificate in Early Childhood Preschool 
  • Certificate in Infant/Toddler Care 

  EDU-119 Credential Only Forbes Program Recognition

Career Potential

Outlook

Jobs

  • Kindergarten/Preschool Education 
  • Childcare Worker 
  • Teaching Assistant 
  • Instructional Coordinator 
  • Elementary School Teacher 
View potential job openings

Accreditation

naeyc early childhood accredidation logo

The AAS in Early Childhood Degree Program at Haywood Community College is accredited by the Commission on Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, 1401 H St. NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005. (800) 424-2460 ext. 8007.  The accreditation term runs from July 2015 through July 2022.

In 2022 the program received their re-accreditation. Use this link to read the release.

Accreditation Information

Class Schedules

child desk and chairs in classroom

HCC offers a variety of class times to fit your busy schedule. Different class options are available based on your graduation year. You can view available classes and then meet with your advisor to get registered.

Technical Standards   Program Schedule   Search for Courses   Program Cost

For more information contact:

Eliza Dean
  • Eliza Dean
  • Program Manager & Instructor - Early Childhood Education
Farrah Rodriguez
  • Farrah Rodriguez
  • Success Coach

Have a quick question for us? Fill out this simple form and we will get back to you!

 

EDU-119/Non-Degree Seeking

Bridget Settlemyer

Bridget Settlemyer
Success Coach
blsettlemyer@haywood.edu 
828-627-4510