Early Childhood Education
Associate in Applied Science
This program is for individuals who have the passion to provide the best care and education for children from six weeks to eight years of age. You want to impact a young child's life in positive ways, and you respect the rigor of comprehensive learning to benefit their lives.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
As part of the program, students will spend 90 hours of field experience working with diverse young children and families in high-quality, culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse early childhood settings under the direction of a site supervisor and their college coursework supervisor.
Admissions Office
Students earning the Early Childhood Education AAS degree will qualify for the Illinois Gateways Level 4 ECE credential.
As part of the program, students will spend 90 hours of field experience working with young children and families that are diverse in culture, linguistics, and abilities in early childhood settings under the direction of a site supervisor and their college coursework supervisor.
Preschool Teacher, Childcare Worker, Teacher Assistant, Childcare Owner, Professional Nanny or Caregiver
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
5 Semesters
61 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,455
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
Guiding young children requires stamina, a positive disposition, and a deep understanding of child development. On a good day you will go home mentally and physically drained because of the strong bonds you have with each child in your care. You will make a positive impact on the life of each and every one.
Andrianna Smyrniotis, Professor and Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator
How Do I Get Into the Early Childhood Education Program?
You want to take your experience working or volunteering in childcare to the next level. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- High school courses in English, communications, and child development are beneficial for this program.
- Previous childcare or babysitting experience is beneficial.
What Can I Expect As an Early Childhood Education Student?
- Observation and learning opportunities in a variety of childcare settings.
- Learn from experienced Early Childhood Education teachers.
- The demand for qualified and experienced childcare workers is only expected to grow.
- Graduates can transfer to a four-year Illinois public university to complete a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Eduation.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.