Early Childhood Education Associate of Applied Science | COLLEGE FOR ADULTS About the program
What will I study?
Are you interested in changing the lives of young children?
Our program focuses on personal, social, and institutional transformation. You will be mentored and supported by experienced early childhood and Montessori faculty who have a passion for working with adult students and preparing the next generation of educators. You will:
Enroll in the Early Childhood Education associate degree program from St. Kate’s College for Adults, where you will study online and be prepared to launch a new career. Our program trains adult learners to work with children from birth to six years old, using a culturally relevant framework. We incorporate child development science, observational studies, and culturally relevant teaching to explore best practices for guiding this age group. Students learn foundational Montessori philosophy and methodology using an anti-bias lens necessary for fully supporting families and teaching teams. The defining elements of our associate program include: • • • • •
Social justice Personal transformation Innovative pedagogy Holistic teacher education Community engagement
What can I do with a degree in early childhood education? You will be prepared to work in public and private schools, early childhood education centers, and other organizations. The associate degree credits are transferable into our Early Childhood Education bachelor’s degree, giving you additional opportunities for professional growth.
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Become a socially aware, critically informed, and innovative educator Learn in a supportive environment that nurtures mind, body, and spirit Ground your teaching in Montessori methods, with a focus on the whole child Meet the needs of diverse learners Develop awareness and skills for leadership, communication, ethics, and social justice
Fieldwork experiences Students will conduct fieldwork hours in early childhood classroom environments, utilizing and documenting the young child’s natural development through movement, language, and interpersonal connection.
Class scheduling / time to completion You will take fully online courses offered in an asynchronous format during the fall, spring and summer terms. The Early Childhood Education associate degree may be completed in 2 years; timing will vary depending on the number of transfer credits from other institutions, and how many credits you choose to complete each term.
Program eligibility To be admitted to the Early Childhood Education associate program, applicants must meet all admission standards and procedures for a degree program in the College for Adults, including having a GPA of 2.0 or above, and a GED or high school diploma.