Early Childhood Specialist, A.A.S.

The A.A.S. Early Childhood Specialist degree is a 60-credit program to prepare students for employment as pre-school child care center teachers, teachers aids in WV counties recognizing the curriculum and other child care centers serving children birth to age 6. Students combine theories with practical applications where possible.  The program focuses on the cognitive, emotional and physical development of young children and appropriate curriculum and activities to enhance the development of young children.  The program includes administrative and management skills for those individuals that will obtain supervision and management positions.  Students learn communication and management skills.  Students learn to maintain childcare center records in accordance with West Virginia and federal laws.  Students are prepared for employment upon graduation from the program.

Program Outcomes

• Prepare students for employment in pre-school childcare centers, teacher’s aids, and other childcare centers serving children birth to age 6.  
• Apply theories of early childcare with practical applications.
• Implement age-appropriate curriculum and classroom activities.
• Prepare to assume supervision roles in an early childcare facility.
• Maintain childcare facility records in accordance with West Virginia and Federal Law requirements.
• Apply professional written and spoken communication skills with staff and parents.