Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree, AAS, Certificate, CER
Pathway: Business, Technology and Public Service
Make a difference in the lives of young children and help meet the need for quality early childhood education in your community! Our Early Childhood Education program gives you the skills and knowledge to support kids' success in school and life. With multiple degree and certificate options, our dedicated faculty are committed to helping you reach your career goals. Prepare for an entry-level career as a preschool teacher, childcare worker, or with further education, a childcare center director or special education teacher.
All students registered for ECE classes, both lecture-based and practicum-based courses, must submit to a criminal background check the first semester of enrollment. This process is completed online through the PPSC Human Resources Department, with an associated cost for the background check service. Further instructions will be provided the first day of class. Students are advised to maintain a copy of their background check receipt to submit in all courses.
One of the primary objectives of Higher Education programs in Colorado is to cultivate strong leaders in the field of Early Childhood Education. To achieve this goal, it is essential to establish partnerships that promote collaboration and a shared commitment to Colorado's workforce, as well as the children and families that our students interact with statewide. As a result, the Early Childhood Higher Education Partnership (ECHEP) was formed.
ECHEP conducts regular meetings throughout the academic year, co-led by a faculty member from a 2-year program and a faculty member from a 4-year program. The current co-leaders of ECHEP are Dr. Lori Ryan from CU Denver and Dr. Kassy Lopez from PPSC.
Recently, the Early Childhood Education program at PPSC actively participated in the ECHEP Retreat. This retreat created a safe and immersive environment where higher education programs could connect, relax, and engage in meaningful discussions on policy/advocacy and teaching/learning. The retreat served as an opportunity for the programs to deepen their understanding of one another and foster collaboration, all within the beautiful surroundings of the retreat setting.
To work in this field, you may be required to obtain state licensure. Be sure to check state licensure requirements for the state or territory where you are currently located and/or intend to work. Learn more about professional licensure and check to see if our program meets the requirements in your state or territory.
If teaching is your passion, PPSC offers two degree options for future teachers! You can pursue an Associate of Arts degree in Teacher Preparation focused on Early Childhood Education (Preschool to 3rd grade) or an Associate of Arts degree in Elementary Education Teacher Preparation (Kindergarten to 6th grade).
Explore Education: Teacher Preparation
Interested in how the human mind works? Launch your career as a mental health counselor or gain insights that apply to many fields, such as education, business, healthcare, and social services with our Psychology program.
Explore Psychology