Early Childhood Education Diploma

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The Early Childhood Education program prepares students for careers working with young children in a variety of settings. Students who successfully complete the program requirements are competent to assume a position of responsibility in early childhood education.

Coursework introduces students to the early childhood field and includes child growth and development, guidance techniques, curriculum planning and assessment, infant and toddler care, and health, safety and nutrition in the context of families and communities.

Required coursework includes participation in the Des Moines Area Community College Child Development Center. Essential skills needed to successfully complete the required lab courses include the ability to maintain awareness of active children in a group setting, to demonstrate stamina while engaging in multiple tasks and activities with children, to respond quickly and appropriately to children’s changing needs and to keep children safe.

When coursework is completed, students will assume positions as assistant teachers or early childhood professionals in a variety of settings such as child care centers, preschools, child development homes, and public and private schools working with infants and toddlers, preschoolers or school-age children. Coursework from the Early Childhood certificate of specialization transfers into the ECE diploma; coursework from the diploma may be applied to the ECE AAS degree .

Current health and immunization records are required for each student. In addition, DHS criminal history record checks and fingerprinting will be required. Criminal convictions or documented history of abuse will prevent students from participating in lab and field experiences. Students unable to complete these classes will not receive a degree in Early Childhood Education.

Students who possess the following personal characteristics are generally successful in the Early Childhood program:

Effective written and verbal communication skills
Physical stamina
Ability to make quick decisions
Ability to establish positive relationships with diverse people
Responsibility, dependability and maturity
Ability to manage demands of personal life

For more information about the Early Childhood Education program, please visit our website at go.dmacc.edu/programs/earlychildhood/diploma/Pages/welcome.aspx.

Location: Ankeny

Selected courses in this program are offered at other campuses and online.

Students start any semester.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Satisfy the assessment requirement.
Attend any required information/registration session.

Graduation Requirements

To earn an Early Childhood Education diploma, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average, and receive a grade of C or above in ECE 158 , ECE 159 , ECE 243 , ECE 343 , and ECE 262 .

Recommended Course of Study

A recommended course of study, listed below, has been created to ensure that each student completes the program in the minimal amount of time required. However, the course of study can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each student.

Total Credits Required to Complete this Diploma - 37

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$143.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

	Semester 1	Semester 2	Semester 3
Books (approximate)	650	350
Supplies/Equipment	55	55	55
Physical Exam	150
Program Fees	85	50	55

Approximate total for program: $6,796*

* Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Plan and carry out indoor and outdoor activities to support children’s learning and development.
• Conduct small and large group experiences.
• Record children’s development and progress.
• Be responsible for the health and safety of the children in a group.
• Communicate daily with families.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

Demonstrate responsibility, dependability and punctuality.
Be physically able to perform required care of children.
Make quick decisions, stay calm and show leadership in urgent situations.
Apply early childhood theories when planning and implementing activities for children.
Observe and record information regarding children’s development.
Demonstrate skill in guiding and disciplining children.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with diverse children, families and coworkers.
Work cooperatively with other staff members.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Advocate for the needs of children and their families.
Maintain emotional stability and psychological health to work with children, fa miles, clients, colleagues and college personnel.
Demonstrate professional dispositions such as honesty, integrity, caring and empathy.
Practice professional behavior, ethical conduct.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

• Students must complete some classes at the DMACC Ankeny Campus and in the DMACC Child Development Center.
• Some classes meet late afternoon and evening hours.
• Some classes are available online.
• Expected starting salary $17,310-$20,960 ($8.32-$10.08/hour) (Iowa Workforce Information Network).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in or allow discrimination covered by law. This includes harassment based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator can be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850.