Early Childhood Education (ECE.AAS)

Associate in Applied Science (ECE.AAS)

Human Services

Orchard Ridge Campus

The Early Childhood Education Associate Degree program is designed to develop effective, caring, competent, high-quality early childhood education professionals. This program provides training for effective work with young children in a variety of areas and increased awareness of the sensitivities, vulnerabilities and potential of every child. The program satisfies Michigan state requirements for licensing as directors of child care centers, lead teachers in child care centers, home-based center providers, and support staff in public school early childhood programs and Head Start agencies. It also prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in Early Childhood Education thereby increasing their job potential. The program provides experiential and academic training in early childhood education through course work, fieldwork, and internships. A “C” (2.0) or better grade is required in all program major requirements and required supportive courses to qualify for graduation in the program. To enter the program, candidates must provide documentation that they meet the following requirements:

1. Responsible and suitable character to meet the needs of children (see State of Michigan Child Care licensing requirements);
2. No history of abuse or neglect of children or the elderly (must obtain DHS Central Registry Clearance);
3. Criminal background clearance (see State of Michigan Child Care licensing requirements);
4. Mentally, physically, medically, and cognitively able to care for children.

Early Childhood Education program webpage

Full Time - Early Childhood Education program plan example

Part Time - Early Childhood Education program plan example

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 Course may be used to meet General Education requirements.