Early Childhood Education | AAS

Associate of Applied Science Degree

Recommended basic skills courses are

  • College Readiness in English
  • College Readiness for Quantitative Literacy

Early Childhood Education, like all education, demands well-prepared teachers. A growing body of research supports the value of high-quality early childhood programs for children’s later success in school and in life, the most important determinant of which is the teacher.

Pikes Peak State College and the Early Childhood Education program faculty are committed to providing the optimal course of study that meets the career goals of each student. The Early Childhood Education program is the foundation for a challenging and rewarding career in early childhood care and education as well as other related fields.

All students registered for ECE classes, both lecture-based and practicum-based courses, must submit to a criminal background check the first semester of enrollment. This process is completed online through the PPSC Human Resources Department, with an associated cost for the background check service. Further instructions are available on the ECE home page and will be provided the first day of class.

Upon completion of the Early Childhood Education program, students will be able to meet the educational qualifications for early childhood teacher and director as defined by the Colorado Department of Human Services for licensed childcare centers and preschools.

All students should schedule an appointment with an Early Childhood Education program advisor prior to enrolling in a class. Please call 719-502-3300 to schedule an appointment.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Early Childhood Education degree program, students should be able to:

  • Apply developmentally appropriate teaching strategies that integrate language and literacy support for young children's learning
  • Establish positive relationships with children, families, and communities
  • Create differentiated instruction based on observations and assessment of young children
  • Use developmentally appropriate guidance strategies to promote positive behavior in young children
  • Demonstrate professionalism in early childhood education
  • Examine professional practices through reflection to advance early childhood teaching
  • Implement health, safety, and nutrition practices that promote children's wellbeing in early childhood settings