Early childhood educational programs are available at the associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree levels. While graduates of these programs are prepared for a wide variety of careers in the field, their main focus is to improve the development of children in the preschool and early elementary level. Students in these programs focus on topics involving the curriculum for young children, program planning, issues in early childhood education, special-needs children, and teaching and learning.
In order to prepare for careers in early childhood education, students at all degree levels must participate in an internship or practicum with a local educational or research facility. Participating in an internship offers prospective early childhood education professionals an opportunity to observe and work with young students in an academic setting. An internship prepares individuals for careers in this field by working with current professionals and learning about partnering with parents, evaluating teaching techniques and curriculum development.
Graduates of an early education program must be prepared to deal with the emotional, physical, social, intellectual and creative growth of young children. In order to work in this field, a degree program must instill a sense of the responsibility involved in developing a learning environment. Additional skills in this field include an accepting attitude toward children, critical thinking and problem-solving, flexibility, patience and acceptance of diversity.
While those who graduate with an associate's degree in early childhood education may work as a child care provider for families or in a private child care facility, individuals with a bachelor's degree can find employment in public and private elementary schools as teachers. A master's degree will prepare graduates to work as school administrators in elementary schools. Graduates with a doctorate in the field work at the university level and are able to teach elementary education courses and conduct research in the field.