What Will I Learn in an Early Childhood Education Degree Program?

As part of your curriculum in this degree program, you'll learn about teaching methodologies, theories of early childhood growth and development, instructional strategies and assessment techniques. You'll also complete field experience in an early childhood setting as a student teacher. In addition to your studies and student teaching, you will also likely complete a research project to present before graduation.

AA in Elementary Edu.	AA in Early Childhood Edu.	BA in Early Childhood Edu.

What Can I Do With an Early Childhood Education Degree?

A degree in early childhood education is ideal for students who would like to become teachers and want room for growth in the future. You will most likely get started working in a public or private elementary or preschool, although some teachers decide to work for day care centers or do private tutoring. After you have gained experience working as a teacher, you may find that you would like to move on to an administration role, such as principal or assistant principal. Your degree in early childhood education will help set you apart from others in the field and offer you more advancement opportunity than if you hadn't completed such a program.

What Is the Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education Degree Students?

Teaching is a profession with good prospects, with job growth of 13 percent expected by 2018—about as fast as the average for all occupations. Teachers can expect an annual salary of $31,000 to $81,000. If you move on to become a principal, you will have a similar job outlook, as education administrator positions are expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations as well. Your pay as a principal will range from $26,000 to about $160,000.