If your goal is to earn a bachelor's degree in the field of Early Childhood Education, then the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood (AAEC) degree from NPC is the smart way to start. You'll complete the same foundational courses you would take in your first two years at a university, but at a tenth of the cost!
NPC's AAEC degree is guaranteed to fully transfer to any of Arizona's three public universities, so you'll enter as a junior. Best of all, that's two years of college with no debt!
The AAEC core requirement of 19 credits includes courses in providing a healthy and safe learning environment, understanding behavior, observation and assessment, child development, algebra-based math and more. This degree will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and competencies that align with both state and national standards to help you move right into your preferred university area of study.
Completion of this two-year associate degree in Early Childhood also provides direct employment possibilities in some preschool environments.
- Learn about transferring credits from community college to a university at AZtransfer.
- See list of NPC transfer course options.
- For more information about transfer degrees, please contact an NPC Academic Adviser. Also see the current NPC College Catalog and class schedule.
Labs and Classrooms
Most Early Childhood classes are self-paced, with an NPC Early Childhood instructor actually observing your interaction with children in your workplace.
Entry Requirements
While not required, current CPR/first aid training is strongly recommended. Classes are available through NPC.
Work Environment
Preschool and kindergarten teachers work in public and private schools, childcare centers and charitable organizations.
Job Outlook
Employment of preschool, kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 7 percent through 2024.
Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the national median salary in May 2019 for preschool teachersSOC 25-2011 as $48,210; $59,420 for kindergarten teachersSOC 25-2010; and $63,930 for elementary school teachersSOC 25-2020.
Potential Job Titles
Preschool teacher, kindergarten teacher, grade school teacher
Articulations
The NPC Associate of Arts in Early Childhood degree is a transfer degree. The general education component of the AAEC degree fulfills the Arizona General Education Curriculum (AGEC-A). When completed, the 35 credits of the AGEC-A will transfer to the three public Arizona state universities as a block that meets all lower division general education requirements.
Locations
Contact Information
2251 E. Navajo Blvd.
Nizhoni Learning Center, room 148
Holbrook,
AZ 86025
Student Profiles
