Education (Early Childhood)
Associate in Arts (Transfer)
You love the wonder of learning in a young child's eyes. Transform that love into a career in early childhood education. Take a practical journey in helping young children take their first steps in learning.
50
hours spent in observation and training in actual early childhood classrooms
This program features more class involvement, in-classroom observation, and training than most comparable programs. It helps you confirm that early childhood education is the right career for you.
Admissions Office
Courses involve 15 hours of observation in an early childhood classroom and 40-50 hours experience working with the teacher and students.
Network with early childhood education teachers and other students interested in early childhood education.
Begin coursework to become a teacher in Pre-K through second grade.
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
5 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
25 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
This program helps confirm for students that education is the right career path and it also helps them confirm the grade level and the subject area they want to teach.
Kelly Funke, Professor, Education
How Do I Get Into the Education (Early Childhood) Program?
Turn your talent for teaching young children into a rewarding and fulfilling profession. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
- Student success advisors are available to assist.
What Can I Expect As An Education (Early Childhood) Student?
- This program helps students confirm that education is the right career path.
- In-classroom observation and work with teachers and students is a key part of the program.
- Program prepares students to transfer to a four-year college to finish their bachelor’s degree.
- Most students transfer to Illinois State University, as well as Eureka College, Bradley University and others.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.