Early Childhood Education

Associate in Applied Science

This program is for individuals who have the passion to provide the best care and education for children from six weeks to eight years of age. You want to impact a young child's life in positive ways, and you respect the rigor of comprehensive learning to benefit their lives.

24/7
support in the Academic Support Center

As part of the program, students will spend 90 hours of field experience working with diverse young children and families in high-quality, culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse early childhood settings under the direction of a site supervisor and their college coursework supervisor.

A Quality Education

Students earning the Early Childhood Education AAS degree will qualify for the Illinois Gateways Level 4 ECE credential.

Get Involved

As part of the program, students will spend 90 hours of field experience working with young children and families that are diverse in culture, linguistics, and abilities in early childhood settings under the direction of a site supervisor and their college coursework supervisor.

Career Opportunities

Preschool Teacher, Childcare Worker, Teacher Assistant, Childcare Owner, Professional Nanny or Caregiver

COMPLETION TIME

24 Months

if Full Time

5 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours


What if I attend part-time?

Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.

ESTIMATED COST

$9,600

+ supplies & fees

Based on 2024-25


What financial assistance can I receive?

Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

10 Students

average per class

Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.


View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.

Meet Our Students and Alumni

Al’s Journey: From Uncertainty to Ambition
+
Ana’s Dual Degrees Elevate Her Education 
+
Phi Theta Kappa and Beyond: Hanna’s Passion
+
Montserrat: Overcoming First-Generation Obstacles
+

Guiding young children requires stamina, a positive disposition, and a deep understanding of child development. On a good day you will go home mentally and physically drained because of the strong bonds you have with each child in your care. You will make a positive impact on the life of each and every one.

Andrianna Smyrniotis, Professor, Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator
Let’s Get Started ▸

How Do I Get Into the Early Childhood Education Program?

You want to take your experience working or volunteering in childcare to the next level. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.

  1. Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
  2. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
  3. Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
  4. High school courses in English, communications, and child development are beneficial for this program.
  5. Previous childcare or babysitting experience is beneficial.

What Can I Expect As an Early Childhood Education Student?

How Am I Going to Manage This?

Admissions

Edwards Library / Administration Building » L220C
East Peoria Campus
Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm