Program Description

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to teach students the aspects of teaching and working with young children, from birth through elementary age. Students will explore career pathways and develop the characteristics of successful teachers and childcare providers through practicums. Applying theoretical concepts to real-life situations, students are able to take what they have learned in the classroom and apply it to their rotation experiences where they learn how to meet the developmental needs and interests of young children in elementary school and daycare settings.

Program Length

Two years (students may enroll for one year for program experience)

Industry Alignments

Council for Professional Recognition – Child Development Associate Competency Standards; American Red Cross: First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defi brillator (AED) - Adult, Child and Infant Standards

Integrated Academic Coursework

Career and Financial Management (1/2 credit per year)
English (1/2 credit per year)

4+1 Pathway Option

NOCTI: Early Childhood and Care-Basic and Advanced

College Credit Opportunities

Dual Credit: Cayuga Community College: BIO 209 Basic Nutrition (1st year students), CAY 101 Foundations for College Success (2nd year students); Articulation Agreements: SUNY Herkimer; SUNY Cobleskill

Credential Opportunities

Child Development Associate (CDA); NYS Teaching Assistant Certificate-Level 1; American Red Cross: First Aid, CPR and AED Certifications; Technical Endorsement on Graduation Diploma

Industry Assessments

NOCTI-Early Childhood Care and Education (Basic and Advanced)

Program Supplies Provided

Polo shirts; NOCTI – Early Childhood Care and Education (Basic and Advanced Exam); American Red Cross: First Aid, CPR, AED (Child and Infant Certifications); Child Development Associate (CDA) Exam (must be eligible to test after completing two years of instruction; attaining the minimum hours of instruction and hours working with children); NYS Background Clearance Fee; NYS Teaching Assistant Exam (must be eligible to test after completing two years of instruction and completed all workshops); Fingerprint Clearance for Teaching Assistant Certificate