The Early Childhood Education program prepares students for a rewarding career nurturing the growth and development of children. Students are provided basic knowledge about the childcare and education field, child development from birth through adolescence, and appropriate practices in working with children.
Students gain hands-on experience by participation at Hawkeye's Child Development Center, through field trips, assisting in community-based child care and education settings, from guest presentations, and through partnerships with Tri-County Child & Family Development Council, and Orange Elementary School.
Students learn a wide variety of skills necessary to interact with children ranging in age from infancy to school age
The Early Childhood Education program begins in the Fall semester. The Associate in Applied Science degree in Child Development is a four semester program that prepares graduates for positions as lead teachers in licensed child care facilities and with experience, qualifies the graduate educationally for administrative positions in these facilities.
Students in the Early Childhood Education program interested in continuing their education should visit with a program advisor.
Award - Diploma or AAS
"The Early Childhood Education program prepared me to work in the field. Learning how to prepare, write, and teach lessons at field experience sites were my most memorable activities from classes. Hawkeye provided me with the knowledge and experience I needed to be successful in teaching young children."
Tina Freesemann, Child Care Assistant Hawkeye Child Development Center - Waterloo, IA Class of 1998
