Program Information:
Early Childhood Educators specialize in the care and education of children from birth–to age eight. Students will learn about child development, health, safety, nutrition, demonstrate understanding of developmentally appropriate practices, and implement curricula in field experiences.
Students pursuing work with children birth through age eight may choose to enter the workforce with a credential/degree or transfer to a university upon completion of the AAS degree. Careers in childcare centers, working with young children and their families, in social service agencies, and family/community support specialists are options.
Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is an entitled institution through Gateways to Opportunity – Illinois Professional Development System. The AAS degree at LLCC is eligible for Gateways ECE Level IV, ITC Level IV, and IDC Level I credential through the Gateways to Opportunity website.
- After completing the coursework, students will be eligible for a Credential ECE Level IV, ITC Level IV, and IDC Level 1
- Graduates work as teachers and directors in child development centers, Head Start, nursery schools, family child-care providers and in agencies providing family support.
- Career cluster includes child development center aide, teacher and director; family child-care provider; nursery schoolteacher or aide; school age child-care worker; playground supervisor; and family support worker.
- This applied science program of study must be taken in its entirety to meet degree requirements.
For Program Information Contact:
Social Sciences and Business at 217-786-2391 or 217-786-2414 or see a Student Success Coach.
Course Requirements:
Required General Education Courses
| CMN101 | Public Speaking Fundamentals | 3 |
| EGL 101 | Composition I | 3 |
| EGL 102 | Composition II | 3 |
| | |
| POS 101 | Introduction to American Politics | 3 |
| OR | |
| POS 201 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| | |
| Science or Math Selection | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
Required Program Courses
Please see your Student Success Coach for course planning.
| ECE 105 | Curriculum and Planning | 3 |
| ECE 107 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 3 |
| ECE 109 | Observation and Assessment | 3 |
| ECE 121 | Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| ECE 122 | Growth and Develop in Early Childhood Years | 3 |
| ECE 124 | Language and Literacy Development in Early Childhood | 3 |
| ECE 201 | Science and Math | 3 |
| ECE 202 | Play in the Learning Environment | 3 |
| ECE 203 | Home, School and Community Relationships in Early Childhood | 3 |
| ECE 204 | Creative Activities | 3 |
| ECE 205 | Guidance and Discipline | 3 |
| ECE 214 | Practicum Intensive | 4 |
| ECE 215 | Seminar | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 39 |
Program Course Selection
Students must select two courses from the list below.
Options:
AAS degree in its entirety leads to a Level 4 ECE credential, awarded through Illinois Gateways.
To pursue a Level 4 Infant/Toddler credential, you will need to take ECE 219 as one of your electives.
To pursue a Level 1 Illinois Director credential, you will need to take ECE 225 as one of your electives.
Prior Learning Opportunities:
If you currently have an active ECE CDA, you are eligible to receive Prior learning credit for ECE 230 and ECE 204, totaling 6 credits towards your AAS degree.
| ECE 219 | Infant and Toddler Care and Education | 3 |
| ECE 225 | Administration | 3 |
| ECE 230 | CDA Foundations | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 6 |