AAS Early Childhood Education

Program: Early Childhood Education (636)
Award: Associate of Applied Science

Program Purpose:

This program prepares students to care for, supervise, and educate young children from birth to eight years.  This degree is a pathway to a Baccalaureate degree with the option of teacher licensure with a PreK-3 endorsement.  Individuals already working in the field may up-grade their skills and qualify for advancement.

What will I learn?

Students successfully completing this program will be able to…

• Recognize the stages of early childhood development.
• Build self-esteem in children and help them develop self-control.
• Apply techniques and methods for educating in math, science, and social studies.
• Utilize the arts and other creative activities for young children.
• Plan and implement programs in group care with emphasis on health and safety policies, record-keeping, and reporting to parents.
• Integrate movement and music into curriculum.
• Plan activities to stimulate logical thinking.

How long will I need to be in college?

A college-ready student attending Camp full-time can complete this associate degree in two years.

What job or career can I get with this degree?

Upon completion of the program, graduates will possess the knowledge and skills required for various careers such as: 

• Childcare/Preschool/After-School Director
• Childcare/Preschool/After-School Manager
• Childcare/Preschool/After-School Teacher
• Early Head Start/Head Start Teacher
• Teacher’s Assistant
• Substitute Teacher

What is the job outlook for graduates from this program?

As of the first quarter of 2026, total employment in the Hampton Roads Workforce Region was as follows:

• Preschool Teacher was 2,724. There is projected annual demand/need for 300 new entrants into this occupation (Source: Jobs EQ Occupation Report Preschool Teachers, July 2026).
• Childcare Workers was 4,208. There is projected annual demand/need for 657 new entrants into this occupation (Source: Jobs EQ Occupation Report Childcare Workers, July 2026).
• Teacher Assistants was 6,082. There is projected annual demand/need for 694 new entrants into this occupation (Source: Jobs EQ Occupation Report Childcare Workers, July 2026).

How much can I earn with this degree?

Below are the wages for careers, within the Hampton Roads Workforce Region, that are related to this field.

(Source:  Jobs EQ Occupation Report Wages, July 2026)

Want to know more?  Check out the program map and program requirements in the College Catalog.