Option 1: Early Childhood Education Degree – Director

Program Overview

The 60 credit-hour curriculum is designed to provide students with the requisite skills and theoretical knowledge to work in a variety of facilities for young children as a director for half-day and full-day early childhood centers.

Upon completion of courses for the specialized area of director, demonstration of proof of First Aid/CPR certification and verification of 1200 hours of management experience, students need to complete an IL Gateways application to qualify for the Illinois Director Credential Level 1.

This sequenced degree plan is one of two options that students may pursue to earn the Early Childhood Education Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.

Program Requirements

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The mathematics requirement for this degree can be met with MGT 150 (Business Math) or Math Competency. See Math Competency options for information. Students who use Math Competency to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an additional three credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

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This course meets the World Culture and Diversity graduation requirement.

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See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

Program Learning Outcomes

• HGD5: Integrates research, developmental theories, and observational data to make decisions about evidence-based practice supporting children's learning and development.
• HSW6: Collaborates with diverse families and community organizations to support children's healthy development and learning.
• IRE4: Designs learning environments and activities supportive of diverse, healthy development and learning.
• OA5: Evaluates and selects appropriate strategies for collecting, recording, measuring, disseminating, and utilizing observation, screening, and assessment data which are responsive to the strengths and challenges of individual children and reflective of family goals and priorities.
• CPD6: Selects appropriate content, aligned with relevant standards.
• FCR6: Selects and implements culturally and linguistically appropriate procedures designed to gather information about children and families, including child and family strengths, priorities, concerns, and needs, and collaboratively integrates this information into child, family, and program goals.
• PPD5: Engages in reflection and the design of a professional development plan with the goal of improving professional practice and fostering professional growth.