If your goal is to continue your education so you can work with young children and their families in settings that provide educational, family-support, or early intervention services, then the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Studies degree from NPC is the smart way to start. The AAS degree also supports students working toward a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree. A BAS in Early Childhood builds on the AAS degree to give a greater depth of knowledge to early childhood professionals and advance their careers.
The field of Early Childhood includes a wide variety of opportunities for professionals to profoundly impact the lives of children and families. At NPC, Early Childhood Studies students are prepared to work in diverse and inclusive early childhood classroom environments, including homes, schools, libraries, health programs, and other community settings.
Through a combination of general and specialized areas of early childhood, AAS degree-seeking students become outstanding early educators, decision-makers, coaches, interventionists, advocates, and intellectual and ethical leaders. The AAS in Early Childhood Studies also includes the requirements for earning a Certificate of Proficiency (CP). The CP in Early Childhood Studies is a set of 19 credits and includes courses in child development, learning environments and curriculum, early childhood assessment, developmentally effective instruction, and more. All NPC Early Childhood programs (CP, AAS, AAEC) align with both state and national standards for professional preparation in early childhood education.
- For more information about this program, please contact an NPC Academic Advisor. Also see the current NPC College Catalog and class schedule.
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
This program prepares graduates to work in a variety of settings such as public schools/preschools, childcare centers, Head Start programs, early intervention, behavioral health, healthcare settings, faith-based settings, libraries, social service settings, classrooms and recreational settings.
Potential Job Titles
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher, Family Care Provider, Childcare Director, Early Interventionist, Quality Coach, Childcare Consultant, Caregiver.
Articulations
Although this program is NOT an AGEC transferable degree, the ECD AAS degree is designed to smoothly transition students to the Bachelor’s of Applied Science programs at NPC or Arizona’s three state universities. The Early Childhood Department Chair can assist you in determining your pathway options. Students should also work with an academic advisor at the college or university you plan to attend after NPC to ensure the courses you complete at NPC will apply to your future program of study.
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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