DRAFT 2026-2027 College Catalog - NEW & IMPROVED [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Early Care and Education
|
|
Program Information
Quality early childhood programs are vital to the future success of young children. The Early Care and Education (ECE) program prepares students who are entering the field as well as students already employed in the field through coursework infused with a variety of learning experiences, on-site placements for labs in local early care and public school settings, and interactions with faculty and community professionals. The curriculum for ECE’s certificates and associate degree are designed to help students become committed, capable, and compelled early care and education professionals. Recent graduates are employed as public school teacher assistants, as teachers or teacher assistants in Head Start and other early care programs, and as directors of early care programs.
The ECE program offers an associate degree and five certificates. Credit for courses in the certificates may be applied toward the associate degree. Students interested in pursuing a baccalaureate degree upon obtaining their associate degree are encouraged to consult with a program advisor, as articulation and transfer agreements are maintained with regional university partners and specific program electives are necessary to meet transfer requirements. Additionally, students seeking certification in Early Childhood, Elementary, or Special Education may take advantage of these transfer pathways to continue their education and licensure preparation.
The ECE program participates in the Teacher Education and Compensation Helps (T.E.A.C.H.) program and works closely with the SC Endeavors and honors its credentialing system.
Scheduling and Entry Options
The ECE program is located on the Pendleton Campus. Full-time ECE degree-seeking students should plan to attend classes at the Pendleton Campus. (Evening courses are offered at the Pendleton Campus, but the full degree will require some day course commitments.) Some evening courses are offered, but the full degree will require day course commitments. Students may enter at any term. Most full-time day students will complete requirements in five terms. Part-time students should allow additional terms to earn a degree. Courses can be completed in any order subject to the completion of course pre-requisites, but it is recommended that students follow the prescribed course sequence.
www.tctc.edu/ece
Additional Requirements for Early Care and Education
While self-expression is valued and respected, students in the Early Care and Education program are expected to maintain a professional appearance during lab and field placements. As representatives of the program and as aspiring professionals, students should dress in a manner that is appropriate for working with young children and families. This includes wearing clean, modest, and practical clothing; avoiding items with offensive language or graphics; and limiting excessive jewelry, piercings, fragrances, or distracting accessories. Footwear should be safe and suitable for active engagement with children. Maintaining a professional appearance supports positive role modeling, safety, and the expectations of our community partners.
Program Accreditation
The ECE program’s associate degree is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, 1401 H St. NW, Suite 600, Washington DC 20005, Telephone: 202-232-8777.
ProgramsAssociate in Applied ScienceCertificate
|
