The Early Childhood program prepares students to work with children and families in child development centers, schools, family or group homes or agiences.

Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood

Program Summary:
The Early Childhood program prepares students to work with children and families in child development centers, schools, family or group homes or agiences. Employment opportunities include childcare teacher, teacher assistant and family service worker.

Students interested in owning, operating or managing a day care facility should work toward the Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Business (AAS.GEN.ECDB) degree. The degree covers not only early childhood teaching methodologies, but also provides the graduate with the business skills needed for these positions. Coursework in business law, small business management, payroll accounting and supervision are incorporated into the degree program to provide the necessary skills to effective operate a day care facility.

Students interested in working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree with an Elementary Education major should seek an Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Business (AAS.GEN.ECDB) degree. In addition to the early childhood teaching methodologies included in the curriculum, the transfer track includes general education courses that transfer to all public institutions in South Carolina. Students earning a baccalaureate degree in Elementary Education earn their state teaching certification for pre-K to eighth grade. Interested students should contact their advisor to discuss the transferability of the major courses (ECD) to the institution of their choosing.

Program Length:
The Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Business program requires 69 semester credit hours of instruction. The Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Transfer program requires 68 semester credit hours of instruction. Full-time students can complete either program in four semesters, and evening students, depending on the course enrollment of the student, can complete their studies in five to six semesters. To view course credits required for graduation, click on the following programs:

Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Business degree

Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood - Transfer degree

Affordable and Convenient:
By enrolling in one of the Associate in Applied Science in General Technology - Early Childhood programs, students can obtain a college degree by attending college close to home at one of NETC's four community campuses conveniently located in Pageland, Cheraw, Bennettsville and Dillon. With day, evening, online and weekend classes, students can obtain an education while meeting family needs or working a job. For those pursuing a bachelor's degree, students can also save money by starting their college education at NETC at a fraction of a cost of attending a four-year institution. NETC has partnered with several four-year colleges and universities to provide seamless transfer opportunities. Click NETC's Bridge Programs for more information.

Supportive:
For students graduating high school, NETC's small classes and tight-knit learning environment helps prepare students for the demands of earning a higher education. For older students who may be returning to the classroom after starting a family or looking to make a career change, NETC offers a focused environment among like-minded, goal-oriented students.

Employment:
Job outlook information is available through the U.S. Department of Labor's 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Admission:
Northeastern Technical College adheres to an open-admissions policy and does not impose restrictive standards for admission. Students may request admission based on academic preparation and will be assisted in the process of course selection by faculty advisors. To download an application form, apply online or find information about tuition and other fees, visit the Admissions page.