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 ICC 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 Semesters
60 Total Credit Hours


What if I attend part-time?

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

ESTIMATED COST

$9,300

+ supplies & fees

Based on 2023-24


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

Empowering Student Voices: Wes Eggert Wins ICCB Student Board Member Seat
+
Allie Scrivner Recognized as a Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar
+
Fire Chief, John Knapp Got His “Jump Start” in the ICC Fire Science Program
+
A Hidden Gem of CTE Programs: ICC Interpreter Preparation
+

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 1 application for over 700 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