Early Childhood Education

10-307-1 Associate Degree (two-year)
Offered at Ashland, New Richmond, Rice Lake, and Superior

Joy. Respect. Learning.

Are you looking for a rewarding career in early childhood education? At WITC, you will learn to plan developmentally appropriate environments and activities that promote optimal growth and development in young children.

As an accelerated program, daytime students at New Richmond and Superior may be able to complete the degree in one calendar year. An evening cohort option is available at New Richmond and Rice Lake, so you can complete the program in two years with classes one to two nights a week and occasional Saturdays. General Studies courses are offered in a variety of delivery methods. In addition to the traditional daytime or evening classroom formats, these courses may be available online, video-based, independent study, or through our flex lab.

Dependable. Caring. Observant.

Successful graduates have certain characteristics and skills that help them succeed in the field. As you prepare for your career, you should strive to reach a comfort level in the following courses or skills:

• Applied Math
• Psychology
• Speech/Communications
• Parenting/Family Living
• English/Foreign Language
• Health/Food Choices
• Sociology
• Art

Special Features

All Early Childhood Education core courses are offered in an accelerated format:
DAY CLASSES: New Richmond, Rice Lake, and Superior.
Students have the opportunity to complete the degree in one calendar year.
EVENING CLASSES: New Richmond.
Students complete the program by taking classes one to two nights per week and occasional Saturdays.

Program Outcomes

As an Early Childhood Education graduate, employers will expect you to be able to:

• Apply child development theory to practice
• Observe, record, and assess child growth and development
• Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Incorporate developmentally appropriate guidance strategies
• Integrate health, safety, and nutrition practices according to local, state, and national standards
• Provide a respectful, diverse, and inclusive program
• Use interpersonal skills to develop respectful relationships with children and adults
• Demonstrate professional and ethical standards
• Advocate for children, families, and the profession

Program Costs

The estimated total program cost for the two-year Early Childhood Education program is approximately $8,500. This program is eligible for financial aid. View more information on program and costs.