Associates in Early Childhood Education

Overview

The Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Arizona Christian University trains you in the art and science of teaching children. Three key attributes of the program prepare you for a successful career in education. First, the program emphasizes the integration of education principles across the teaching profession. You will learn that teaching is not compartmentalized but it is a rich combination of research-based theories and hands-on practical experience. Second, the program emphasizes practicality. Through the lens of extensive experience, ACU faculty provide you with timely and valuable glimpses into today’s classrooms. The final and most valuable attribute is the emphasis on mentoring. Because of the intentional small class sizes at ACU, you will be able to develop strong mentoring relationships with your instructors. This mentoring begins in the classroom and continues beyond graduation.

Why an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at ACU?

In addition to small class sizes and a rigorous, biblically-integrated curriculum, ACU’s Early Childhood program offers several unique advantages:

• Core Early Childhood coursework is integrated with the fieldwork so that new learning is applied right away.
• ACU’s education graduates are in great demand locally and abroad.
• Faculty in the department have an average of 20 years of experience in the field, meaning you are taught by leaders in education who have extensive classroom experience.
• Small class sizes create a safe, comfortable setting to practice your teaching and hone your skills.
• God’s Word and His Truths are foundational in all coursework at ACU.

What will I study?

The Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education provides a biblical liberal arts foundation with an innovative approach to general studies. CORE courses reclaim a Christian conception of the Liberal Arts, preparing students to be influential thinkers. Career-related focus areas are based on the Arizona Early Learning and NAEYC standards and include these areas:

• Curriculum and instruction for the young child
• Human development of the young child
• Research based methods for teaching Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies specifically geared for the young child
• Special education methods and services for the young child
• Classroom management for the young child
• Learning environments for the young child

Career Paths

Graduates who meet the requirements of the Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood are prepared to

• Work in a preschool.
• Continue into the Elementary Education program at ACU.
• Be a paraprofessional.
• Work with children in various church, parachurch, and nonprofit organizations.