If your goal is to continue your education toward a bachelor's degree so you can teach in a public school (PreK - 3rd grade) as a state-certified and/or endorsed educator, then the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood (AAEC) degree from NPC is the smart way to start.
The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood (AAEC) degree offers foundational knowledge and competencies aligned with state and national standards for early childhood educator professional preparation. In Arizona, certified and endorsed early childhood educators are required to have specific coursework and practicum experiences working with children birth to age eight The AAEC supports students who wish to continue their education toward a Bachelor’s degree and who may have an interest in teaching in a public school (preschool - 3rd grade) as a state certified and/or endorsed educator.
The AAEC degree is an appropriate option for students pursuing transfer into NPC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education or to another public university in Arizona.
The AAEC fulfills both the set of lower division general education requirements of the Arizona General Education Curriculum and a portion of Arizona’s requirements for teacher certification and/or endorsement.
Labs and Classrooms
Most Early Childhood classes require a practicum component in settings with children birth to 5 or Kindergarten-3rd grade. Practicum allows students to practice what they are learning in classes in hands-on environments under the guidance of a practicum supervisor.
Entry Requirements
Students in this program are required to complete 16–32 hours of practicum for each Early Childhood course for which a practicum is a requirement. A current Identity Verified Prints (IVP) card with Level 1 clearance is required by practicum sites where students work or volunteer. Prior to enrolling in Early Childhood courses, you must provide proof of current IVP card with Level 1 clearance. If you need assistance accessing fingerprint clearance, or you do not have access to an early childhood practicum setting, contact the Educator Preparation Programs Department before registering for classes.
Work Environment
Graduates who go on to complete a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education may work in district or charter schools, private schools, or other PreK-3rd grade settings.
Potential Job Titles
Preschool teacher, elementary school teacher K-3 grade.
Articulations
The AAEC fulfills both the set of lower division general education requirements of the Arizona General Education Curriculum and a portion of Arizona’s requirements for teacher certification and/or endorsement.
Locations
Contact Information
2251 E. Navajo Blvd.
Nizhoni Learning Center, room 148
Holbrook,
AZ 86025
NPC Early Childhood Studies
Northland Pioneer College
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