Overview

See Department website and program contacts here

The Early Childhood Education and Family Studies (AAS) degree is designed for students seeking careers working with young children and families in early learning settings. The curriculum combines child development knowledge with practical teaching and family support skills to prepare students for employment in a variety of early childhood education environments.

Coursework includes topics such as child growth and development, guidance, curriculum planning, family engagement, and developmentally appropriate teaching practices. Students develop practical skills that support high-quality care and education for children from birth through age five.

The Early Childhood Education and Family Studies program is workforce-focused and prepares students for careers in childcare centers, preschool programs, and other early learning settings. Students should be prepared to demonstrate the professionalism, communication skills, emotional stability, and stamina needed for work in this field.

Students are encouraged to work with an advisor to ensure appropriate course selection and program planning based on their educational background and career goals.

Refer to the tabs above for additional information about:

• Education Plan – provides a sample term-by-term sequence of courses
• Career Info – includes information on potential occupations, employment trends, and earnings

Program Learning Objectives

At the completion of this program, students should be able to:

• Design learning environments to support children’s development and learning in all domains
• Implement Developmentally Appropriate Practices and all relevant guidelines
• Articulate the importance of effective observation, documentation and assessment of children’s development
• Develop positive relationships with families, colleagues, and community members
• Apply content knowledge and inquiry tools to construct meaningful curriculum
• Demonstrate an exemplary work ethic and uphold the standards of the early childhood profession

Education Plan

This sample Education Plan illustrates one possible course sequence. Students should consult an advisor to create a personalized plan.

Students with a non-credit credential, such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) or Step 7 on the Oregon Registry, may apply for up to 12 transcripted credits at MHCC upon completion of one ECE credit course at MHCC. See the program adviser for more information. Students must successfully complete first-year classes/certificate coursework prior to admission to second-year classes. Program advisers will determine individual eligibility.

General education courses (such as math, writing, health, etc.) can be taken during any term, or before starting the program. 

Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all program (ECE) courses. Students must also possess or obtain First Aid and Pediatric CPR certification before the fourth quarter of the program.

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Take electives - any courses numbered 100 or above - if needed, to reach 90 degree applicable credits. Recommended electives include:

• ASL101 First Year American Sign Language 1
• ED 200 Introduction to Education
• HS101 Introduction to Social Services  
• HS150 The Effective Helper, A Personal Skills Approach
• COMM115 Introduction to Intercultural Communication  (Cultural Literacy course) 

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Students must provide proof of current First Aid and Pediatric CPR certification to the program advisor and dean before being allowed to enroll in WE280CDC1A Co-op Education - Intermediate - Early Childhood Education. 

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Career Information

Explore potential careers related to this program, including typical job roles, employment trends, and projected growth. This information can help you better understand how your education may align with future career opportunities.