Early Childhood Education (A.A.S.)
Earn your A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education at Walters State, designed for those
aiming to advance in child care and early education. This program prepares you to
effectively support and enhance the development of children from birth to age eight,
focusing on developmental practices, family and community engagement, and assessment
strategies. Graduates often pursue roles in child care centers, preschools, and Head
Start programs, and the curriculum also includes the necessary coursework for the
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
Career Information
The career finder can help students decide upon the best career path for their area of study. It can provide valuable insights about occupations, salary, and employment trends related to each program of study offered at Walters State Community College. View the projected job growth and labor statistics for this academic program by entering a location.
*Modern Campus Pathways uses data provided by Lightcast.
Badging Opportunities
Basic Early Education
Complete four courses to earn the Basic Early Education Digital Badge. To learn more about the Walters State badging program click here.
The Walters State Experience
Why Should You “Write Your Story” at Walters State?
At Walters State, we focus on your success. Our classes are small and professors care about their students’ academic and career goals. Transfer to four-year colleges and universities is seamless through the Tennessee Transfer Pathway and articulation agreements. Want to start a career right after Walters State? Our technical certificates and associate of applied science degrees will train you for in-demand jobs in exciting fields, such as public safety, healthcare, technology and business.
Highlights
- Walters State has been twice awarded Tennessee Community College of the Year.
- Small classes and outstanding faculty who are focused on student success.
- 98% job placement rate for technical education graduates.
- Seamless transfer of classes to four-year colleges through the Tennessee Transfer Pathway program and articulation agreements.
Cost and Admissions
Apply to WSCC
Students must apply, meet admission requirements, and be accepted by Walters State Community College (WSCC).
Apply to WSCC
Funding Your Education
Tuition is set each June by the Tennessee Board of Regents. Tuition and fees for the current academic year may be viewed on the Cashiers Office website.
Four types of financial aid are available; federal, state, institutional and other sources. Students need to send FAFSA information to the college for consideration for state and/or federal money (lottery scholarships, Pell grants, etc.). WSCC is an eligible institution for Hope (lottery) scholarships. For specific information please contact the Financial Aid Office.
Additional Information
NAEYC Accreditation
The Early Childhood Education program is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The program curriculum is aligned with the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators.
NAEYC Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators
ECED Professionalism Statement
The mission of the Walters State Community College Early Childhood Education Degree Program is to educate and empower students to become knowledgeable, confident, and competent early childhood professionals prepared to make intentional decisions about what is best for children and families in the communities they serve.
The program promotes the professional development of our students through their:
- increased awareness of and commitment to the standards and guidelines used in the field of Early Childhood Education;
- personal responsibility and integrity;
- attitudes of respect for children, families, and others;
- use of reflective practice and commitment to ongoing learning.
Resources and Data
- A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education Curriculum
- Early Childhood Education Conceptual Framework
- Program Outcome Data
Preparing for the CDA (Child Development Associate Credential)
Students who are interested in preparing for a CDA credential can take the required courses to prepare for the CDA at Walters State. The AAS program includes the coursework that supports educational requirements for the CDA credential. This credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Development.
Check with an Early Childhood Education advisor for a list of courses which are needed to meet educational requirements for National Child Development Associate (CDA) credentialing preparation.
