Early Childhood Education

10-307-1 Associate Degree (two-year) Campus: Ashland, New Richmond, Rice Lake, Superior

Catalog Page (pdf )

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.

Special Features

DAY CLASSES: New Richmond, Rice Lake, and Superior.
Students have the opportunity to complete the degree in two years or less.
EVENING CLASSES: Ashland and New Richmond.
Students complete the program by taking classes one to two nights per 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 in-person, online, ITV (Interactive Television).

Agreements between the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) and the following baccalaureate degree-granting institutions allow graduates to transfer credits to:

• Lakeland College
• UW-LaCrosse
• UW-Oshkosh
• UW-River Falls
• UW-Stevens Point
• UW-Stout
• UW-Superior
• UW-Whitewater

Contact the receiving institution for specific details.

Program-Specific Requirements

• Background Information Disclosure Form (BID)
• Caregiver Background Check (annual Wisconsin and/or Minnesota, as applicable)
  • Information from the Caregiver Background Check may affect ability to secure fieldwork placement and the ability to find employment after graduation
• Complete Staff Health Report - Child Care Provider form (physical exam)
• Review and sign the Functional Abilities Statement of Understanding

There are four practicum experiences required in the Early Childhood Education program. Practicum 1 requires a minimum of 64 hours of off-campus field experience and Practicum 2, 3, and 4 require a minimum of 128 hours of off-campus field experience. In-class contact time is also required as part of the practicum experience.

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
• Family and Consumer Education
• English/Foreign Language
• Health/Food Choices
• Sociology
• Art

Program Outcomes

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

• Apply child development theory to practice
• Cultivate relationships with children, family, and the community
• Assess child growth and development
• Use best practices in teaching and learning
• Demonstrate professionalism
• Integrate health, safety, and nutrition practices

WITC offers a wide array of credit-based early childhood education courses, credentials, and degree options that align with the Youngstar requirements.

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.