Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley - Skyline College, USA

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to meet the needs of individuals planning a career working with preschool aged children and/or are currently working with preschool aged children. The child from birth to school age is the primary focus. Current research and practical applications are combined in order to assist students in planning their most effective role with children. Children's growth, developmentally appropriate practice, cultural diversity, family support and professional development within the ECE field are major components of the program in order to meet the varied needs of ECE students, courses are offered mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends. The program makes every effort to schedule classes to meet the diversity of students' needs and to encourage students to plan ahead in order to complete specific program requirements.

An Associate degree with 24 ECE units and at least 16 general education units qualifies a student for a Teacher Permit issued by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This permit is required of all teachers working in child care and development programs operating under Title 5, (state-funded programs). A grade of C or better is required in all of the courses used to satisfy the requirements for the major. A minimum of 50% of the ECE units must be taken at Skyline College in order to receive the AS degree with a major in ECE from Skyline.

Program Learning Outcomes
Analyze major developmental milestones and various theoretical frameworks that relate to early care and education to demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the early years as well as the many influences on development
Identify best teaching and care practices and the components of early childhood settings, curriculum, and teaching strategies to increase child growth and competence.
Assess the interrelationship of child, family, and community and how educational, political, socioeconomic factors directly impact the lives of children and families.