CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Associate Degree
This program is designed to transfer to Athens State University for completion of an Early Childhood
Major (Pre-K through 3rd Grade) for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early
Childhood Education. Recent mandates by
Head Start concerning training requirements for Head Start teachers have encouraged the development
of the A.S. Degree and its transferability to a four-year college offering a B.S. Degree in the
Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Graduates of this program may be employed as teachers or directors in public or private preschool
programs, as Head Start teachers or teacher aids, or as teacher assistants in public or private
schools. Courses in this program go far beyond meeting the Alabama State Minimum Standards
qualifications for directors, program directors, and preschool teachers in licensed child care
facilities.
Child Development Certificate
This course is designed to prepare students for employment in preschool programs. Emphasis is upon
developing competency in guiding the experience of preschool children. Graduates may be employed
as teacher assistants in public Kindergartens; as teachers or directors in private and public
preschool programs; and as aids in Head Start.
Classes in this program are designed to meet the Alabama State Minimum Standard qualifications
for a director, program director, and teacher in a licensed child care center.
The child development certificate program offers the student background knowledge of all stages
of child growth and development; training and practical experience in conducting all types of
learning activities with children; knowledge and application of techniques in positive guidance
and discipline, health, safety, and first aid practices, and a basic knowledge of the state
minimum standards for daycare centers and homes.
Any person who has an interest in or a desire to upgrade his or her knowledge in child care
work and has a high school diploma or GED will be eligible for this program.