Early Childhood Specialist, AAS

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The Early Childhood Specialist Program provides graduates with a background for working with children in childcare centers, public and private school early childhood programs, preschools, Head Start programs or private childcare centers. Emphasis is placed on the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of young children.

The program prepares graduates for the ever changing needs of young children and their families. Coursework is taken in curriculum development and implementation, assessment, working with parents and the community, diversity, first aid/health/safety and methods and techniques to work with young children.

Background checks and drug screens are required for this program.

Bring Your Own Laptop (BYOL) (You can either purchase a laptop on your own or purchase one from the STI Support Center. Estimated 750.00 for laptop.)

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Specialist, a student will be able to:

Science & Technology

Know and understand young children’s characteristics and needs.
Use developmental knowledge to create, implement, and evaluate curriculum and environments that are meaningful, respectful, supportive, and challenging for all young children.
Utilize essential concepts, inquiry tools, and structure of content areas.
Understand family and community characteristics.
Understand the goals, benefits, and uses of assessment with young children.

Problem Solving/Critical Thinking

Know, understand, and use a wide array of appropriate, effective approaches and strategies to support young children’s development and learning.
Know and understand the multiple influences on development and learning.
Use ongoing assessment data to plan for children’s programming.

Professionalism

Identify and involve oneself with the early childhood field.
Uphold ethical standards and other professional guidelines.
Engage in continuous, collaborative learning to inform practice.
Integrate knowledgeable, reflective, and critical perspectives on early education.
Engage in informed advocacy for children and the profession.

Communication

Use positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for work with young children.
Involve families and communities in their children’s development and learning.
Support and empower families and communities through respectful, reciprocal relationships.
Identify resources to deepen understanding of content areas.

Program Curriculum - Total Credits: 66

Additional Information

A “C” or higher is required for all HC & ECH courses.

Students entering a program in any semester other than outlined may not graduate in the expected amount of time.

Estimated total program fees

Tuition	$6,864
Fees	$5,874
Books and Supplies	$2,200
Background Check/Drug Screen	$110
TOTAL	$15,048