JJC Program Code: SS050
ICCB Program Code: SSCI 0050
If you are interested in teaching children from birth to eight years of age, a career in Early Childhood Education could be for you. The Child Development program is designed to prepare students for careers in early childhood care and education, including preparation for employment in DCFS-licensed child care facilities, preschools, public schools and Head Start programs. CDEV courses are intentionally organized with practical, competency driven learning and field experiences. The CDEV Career program includes the Associates of Applied Science (AAS) and three certificate programs. As the early care and education field continues to grow, the need for highly qualified staff will increase. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected due to a continued focus on the importance of early childhood education. As an “Illinois Gateways to Opportunity” entitled Institution, JJC offers Level 2-4 Illinois Early Childhood Credentials to further validate specialized early childhood knowledge, skills and experience. In addition to attaining the AAS degree, students will qualify for the Gateways Early Childhood Level IV Credential. Students interested in specializing in infant/toddler care and education, can obtain Infant/Toddler Credential by completing the AAS degree requirements including infant/toddler specialty course work. Students must earn a minimum of a C in all courses submitted for their IL Gateway credential.
Individuals who may be interested in continuing their education at a four-year institution should consult the CDEV Academic Advisor to discuss the transferability of coursework. With the passage in 2021 of IL Public Act 102-0174, the AAS degree in CDEV is fully transferable to a BS in ECE at all public institutions if the graduate has earned a 2.0 on the 4.0 scale.
The student should be aware that the State of Illinois requires a criminal background check, including fingerprinting, to work in a child care setting and a medical report with TB test and immunization clearance.
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