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IECC Transfer Pathway
Early Childhood Education
If working with young children is your calling, the Early Childhood Education transfer pathway at IECC is the perfect place to start. Leading to the Associate in Science and Arts degree, this pathway helps you build a strong foundation in child development, early learning, and family partnerships, then transfer to a four-year university to complete your bachelor's degree and pursue licensure. Graduates go on to careers as preschool and early elementary teachers, child care directors, Head Start educators, and early intervention specialists — shaping the next generation, one child at a time.
Core coursesTap to collapse
The classes that define this pathway. General education requirements round out your degree and can be planned with your advisor.
| Requirement | Course(s) | Cr. |
|---|---|---|
| Core Course | ECD 1101 — Intro to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| Core Course | PSY 2104 — Child Psychology | 3 |
| Core Course | — | 3 |
| Core Course | EDU 1102 — Basic Activities for Elem/Sec Schools | 3 |
| Core Course | EDU 2130 — Family and Community Relations | 3 |
| Core Course | EDU 1114 — Educating Exceptional Children | 3 |
About this pathway
The Early Childhood Education transfer pathway, leading to the Associate in Science and Arts degree, is designed for students who plan to complete foundational coursework at IECC before transferring to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. The program prepares students to nurture, teach, and support the development of young children from birth through the early elementary grades in classroom and community settings. Coursework introduces students to child growth and development, foundations of early childhood education, family and community partnerships, and the general education content needed for elementary teaching, along with early field experiences. Topics of study include child development, introduction to early childhood education, curriculum and methods for young children, family and community relationships, and observation and assessment of young children. Graduates who complete a bachelor's degree and obtain state licensure will have the potential for employment as early childhood teachers in public and private schools, preschool and Head Start teachers, child care center directors, or early intervention specialists.
At a glance
Here's how the degree breaks down by credit hours. A typical full-time semester is about 12–15 credit hours, so a 64-credit-hour degree usually takes two years of full-time study.
Recommended electives
| Course | Title | Cr. |
|---|---|---|
| ECE 1205 | Curriculum for Young Children | 3 |
| ECE 1223 | Growth and Development of Children | 3 |
| EDU 1101 | Education in a Diverse Society | 3 |
| EDU 1105 | Health, Safety, and Nutrition | 3 |
| EDU 1116 | Intro to Teaching | 3 |
| EDU 2105 | Science and Math for Young Children | 3 |
| MTH 1121 | Math for Elementary Majors | 3 |
Program notes
- College Orientation (required): FYE 1198 College Success; FYE 1199 Professional Career Development.
- One Human Diversity HD course must be completed.
- One lab science course must be completed.
Course offerings, prerequisites, and transfer requirements may vary. Meet with an IECC advisor before registering each semester to ensure course selections align with academic goals. Students are responsible for consulting with their intended receiving institution to verify transfer requirements and course applicability.
Ready to take the next step?
Meet with an IECC advisor to map out your transfer plan, choose your courses, and stay on track for your bachelor's degree.
Schedule an Advising Meeting