The Program

The Pre-Kindergarten Program prepares students to work in early childhood settings that serve children, birth to eight years of age. Aspiring professionals will learn how to address the daily challenges of working with children and their families. The program combines a rich history of dedication to early childhood issues with caring, thinking, and planning for children and families.

This associate degree leads to Associate in Applied Science. Graduates are qualified to teach in, or manage, licensed daycare and preschool programs, and are eligible for associate pre-kindergarten teacher licensure.

Most of the coursework can be applied toward a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences or early childhood education. Within the framework of their required courses, students complete 300 hours of clinical/field work as required by the Ohio State Department of Education. This program normally requires five semesters of study averaging 15 hours per semester.

The Pre-Kindergarten program includes studies in the YSU classroom, observations, and hands-on experiences in classrooms with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as well as a culminating practicum placement in an area preschool. The Associate degree prepares students to become teachers in a preschool or Head Start setting by providing child development knowledge necessary for meeting the needds of young children in group settings.

Program Requirements

Pre-Kindergarten *

Career Opportunities

Preschool Teacher
Head Start Teacher
Infant/Toddler Teacher
Day Care Administrator

Typical Work Activities

Work with young children
Create a Day Care
Own and operate a child care center
Work with Infants and Toddlers

Potential Employment Settings

Head Start Programs
Preschool Programs
Family Day Care
Day Care Centers

Links

www.naeyc.org
www.oaeyc.org
www.trumahcolaeyc.org
www.acei.org