Early Childhood Education
(Associate in Applied Science – AAS)

Curriculum Requirements 

Program Description

The Early Childhood Education program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical techniques to teach children in an early childhood setting. The program is directed toward individuals who enjoy working with young children. Specific training allows graduates to work as a head teacher or teacher assistant in an early childhood education program, seek employment involving exceptional children, or direct a child care center. Graduates meet requirements for the New York State Association for the Education of Young Children’s Director Credential and Early Care and Education Credential (NYSAEYC), and are able to take the New York State Teacher Assistant certification exam.

Program Facilities

The Education Program has a specialized Education Resource Room with computers, a scanner printer, laminator and a variety of teaching materials to prepare lessons, projects or to participate in study groups. The Villa Maria College Library’s Children’s Book collection is the largest in Western New York. Included in the collection are a variety of multicultural authors and illustrators.

Program Requirements

To maintain professional standards required for teachers, students must complete the following program specific requirements:

• Maintain a 2.5 GPA in education courses

• Attend the Education Department Program Orientation

• Engage in professional development activities and organizations

• Successfully complete internships and field experiences

• Develop a portfolio according to Education Department guidelines

• Successfully complete the outcomes assessment process

Career Potential & Employment Outlook

Employment of Early Childhood Education Teachers is projected to increase by 18% between 2006 and 2016, faster than average for all occupations. A rise in enrollment in private and universal preschools is likely as the value of learning in the early years becomes widely accepted. A wide variety of full-time and part-time jobs exists for persons at all levels of experience.  Graduates will find numerous entry-level positions as head teachers, teacher assistants, group teachers, exceptional child assistant teachers, social service assistants, and playground and camp supervisors, or teacher assistant positions in public elementary schools. Graduates may also transfer to four-year programs in early childhood education, childhood education, exceptional education or social work. After completing course work at Villa Maria College, some graduates have opened daycare centers and nursery schools.

For more information or to enroll, contact:

Kevin Donovan
Director of Enrollment Management
Phone: 716.961.1870
Email: kdonovan@villa.edu