This program of study meets all the General Education Requirements at Chesapeake College.
Award: Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Mission: The Chesapeake College Early Childhood Development Degree prepares students to work with children from infancy through age eight in a variety of child care settings. The program was developed in accordance with Maryland State Department of Education/Office of Child Care Licensing and Regulations standards.
Program Description: The Early Childhood Development Degree program was designed to provide comprehensive training for professionals already employed either in child care agencies or in the primary grades of school and for students interested in seeking a director’s position in an early childhood program. Early Childhood Development courses comprise the major part of the program. Students will also take courses in related subjects. Students should consult with an academic advisor in planning an appropriate program.
Program Goals: The Early Childhood Development Degree program will:
- Facilitate proficiency in content knowledge and skills for the College’s general education competencies.
- Provide students with comprehensive knowledge and training that meets the requirements of the Maryland Office of Child Care requirements for:
- Professionals already employed in child care agencies.
- Aides in the primary grades of school.
- Those seeking a director’s position in an early childhood program.
- Prepare students for successful careers in early childhood settings or for further study in the field.
Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this program students will be able to:
- Analyze and summarize the impact of theoretical and historical progression of Early Childhood Education.
- Research early childhood topics related to local, state and federal initiatives, ethical responsibilities, professionalism and community resources in early childhood education.
- Analyze characteristics and needs of all (special needs) children from birth to eight years of age for the purpose of designing developmentally appropriate environments and activities.
- Employ multiple modes of observation of individual children and programs for the purpose of understanding,assessing and designing curriculum for young children.
- Analyze and summarize categories of licensing regulations for early childhood programs.
- Create policies and procedures that reflect management practices and administrative functions.
- Create meaningful, challenging, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences and environments for early childhood children that demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts, inquiry tools, and content areas.
Contact Person: Ms. Sarah Ross
For additional educational opportunities related to this field, see the Teacher Aide Certificate program or the Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree program in Early Childhood . Students may be eligible to continue taking courses to complete their Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood at the Eastern Shore Higher Education Center through the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. For more information, contact the Executive Director of the Center at 410-827-5761.
