Early Childhood Education, A.A.

Education

The first two years of preparation for a career as an early childhood, elementary, middle school, or secondary teacher can be accomplished at Northwest College. The Education Department offers courses which teach the basic principles and theories of teaching and learning. Through the cooperation of public
school personnel, our students observe and gain practical experience in public school classrooms throughout the Big Horn Basin.

Academic advisors guide students in their career choices as well as advise them on course selection and transfer options.

Since teaching requires state certification, it is important that students consult with their advisors frequently to become informed of program requirements at four-year colleges. The catalog of the four-year transfer college must be consulted by the student when selecting courses.

Education – Early Childhood

This program allows students to focus on Early Childhood Education for their associate of arts or science degree. Students completing this program can use this as a terminal degree and apply for CDA certification to work in a child care setting or apply for a substitute teaching certificate to work in the public schools in the state of Wyoming. Additionally, the transfer student could transfer to a university offering a four-year degree in early childhood teaching or other areas of service to young children. The core provides students the basic coursework in the field while allowing them the flexibility to tailor their program to their individual needs. Students must successfully complete core courses with a “C-” or better to meet program requirements. Students planning to transfer to a four-year program may need to have additional hours beyond the program requirements at Northwest College in order to transfer in as a junior. These students should consult with their advisor and the appropriate four-year college catalog.

General Education Requirements

Core Courses

All the Core Courses meet outcome standards for Wyoming Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education.

• EDEC 1020 - Introduction to Childhood Education (3)
• EDEC 1300 - Curriculum Planning and Development for Young Children (3)
• EDEC 2200 - Early Childhood Practicum (3-5) (Capstone Course)
• FCSC 2121 - Child Development (4)

Core Electives

Students must complete eight credits from the following list of approved courses.

• CO/M 2125 - Family Communication (3)
• EDEC 1030 - Infant and Toddler Care (3)
• EDEC 1100 - Child Guidance and Observation (3)
• EDEC 2010 - Special Education for Children Birth to 8 (3)
• EDEC 2435 - Child Development (CDA) Seminar (3) (Students holding a CDA certificate may apply to receive 3 credits in Core Electives in Early Childhood)
• EDEX 2484 - Introduction to Special Education (3)

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• FCSC 1140 - Nutrition (2)

• or

• FCSC 1141 - Principles of Nutrition (3)

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• LIBS 2280 - Literature for Children (3)
• PSYC 1200 - Human Development (3)
• PSYC 2300 - Child Psychology (3)

General Electives

General electives selected in consultation with advisor.

Minimum Credits for Degree = 64