Achieving an associate's degree in early childhood education usually takes about two years to complete, provided you follow the suggested course schedule at the college you are attending. The program usually calls for the completion of 64 credits in prescribed course work, based on a two-semester system.
While earning your associates in early childhood education, there will be a variety of classes you will take, outlined and described in the catalog of the college you attend. The curriculum for an associate's in early childhood education includes classes that will help you to assess the educational need of students, conduct field trips and parent conferences, develop class and training objectives, maintain relationships with students, conduct appropriate discipline and much more.
Earning your associate's in early childhood education generally sets you up to continue your education in pursuit of a bachelor's degree in early primary education, although there are jobs available for you without having to earn your bachelor's degree. An associate's degree will prepare you to fulfill requirements for jobs such as a lead preschool teacher, a child librarian, a daycare provider and in some states even a pre-school director. Each state's requirements for these jobs differ, so make sure to check before applying.
The cost of earning an associate's degree in early childhood education is the least expensive childhood education degree to earn. The program's cost varies from school to school. Generally, an associate's degree in a state school, particularly a community college, will cost anywhere between $5,000 and $8,000, plus the cost of fees and books. Some private alternatives can cost 10 times as much.