Early Childhood Education
early childhood education Overview
The Early Childhood Education Department is dedicated to shaping the future by providing a hands-on early childhood program grounded in the latest research and theories related to child development. Our program prepares you for a rewarding career in early childhood education, empowering you to make a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families.
Success Resources
Early childhood education is a critical foundation for a child's future success. At SJCC, our Early Childhood Education program empowers you to become an advocate for young learners, fostering their growth and development during these crucial formative years. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of children and families while building a rewarding career in education. Your journey to nurturing young minds begins here.
Department Contacts
- Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts Division
- (408) 288-3785
- HSSA@sjcc.edu
Degree & Programs
At San José City College, our Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program is dedicated to a single, powerful goal: to provide relevant, high-quality instruction, services, professional development, and career pathways. We aim to equip our students with the knowledge and skills needed to offer young children a robust educational foundation while providing essential support services to families. Our commitment is to foster early childhood development and contribute to brighter futures for children and their communities.
NAEYC Accreditation
“The AS and AS-T programs at San Jose City College is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
The current accreditation term runs from March 2021 through March 2023.”
Student Learning Outcome
International Students planning to study at SJCC full-time under F-1 visa status are required to submit an International Student Application to be considered for admission.
frequently asked questions
SJCC offers the following credentials in Early Childhood Education:
- Associate in Science (AS): Prepares students for careers in child centers, preschools, daycare facilities, infant and toddler centers, and other programs serving young children.
- Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T): Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor's degree in Child Development or a related field.
- Certificates of Achievement: Various certificates, including Associate Teacher, Teacher (Level 2), Inclusion Specialist, and Master Teacher, cater to different career goals and specialization areas within early childhood education.
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Apply child development theories to practice.
Design, implement, and evaluate environments and activities that support positive developmental play and learning outcomes for all young children. - Apply effective guidance and interaction strategies that support all children's social learning, identity, and self-confidence.
- Develop strategies that promote partnerships between programs, teachers, families, and their communities.
Graduates qualify for roles such as:
- Preschool Teacher
- Infant/Toddler Teacher
- Childcare Center Director
- Family Support Specialist
- Early Intervention Assistant
While specific prerequisites may vary depending on the course or certificate, it's advisable to consult the SJCC catalog or speak with a counselor to understand any required preparatory courses or qualifications.
Prospective students should complete the SJCC application process, which includes submitting an online application, providing transcripts, and meeting with a counselor to develop an educational plan tailored to their goals in early childhood education.