Many different careers are open to students who major in Early Childhood Education at Dean College. After completing the associate degree, students will have the option of transferring to a four-year college or university or beginning a career in early childhood education. Students who are interested in teaching at the elementary or secondary level should complete the Liberal Studies major, and pursue the Education/Teaching option.
Students who transfer are well prepared for further studies in early childhood education, elementary and special needs education; child development; educational administration; human services; or children's recreation. Study in these areas can lead to positions as a teacher or director in nursery schools, day care programs and elementary schools; child care worker; pediatric nurse; recreation leader; social worker; family therapist; health care specialist; child care licensing specialist; researcher; consultant; author; or college instructor. Other positions include working in child-related community, state or federal agencies or organizations. Those who pursue advanced studies after graduation from Dean will find diverse professional opportunities available.
An important, exciting aspect for students in the Early Childhood Education program is working at the Dean College Children's Center, an on-campus preschool for area youngsters ages 2.9-6 years. The equipment and curriculum materials in the Center have been designed to encourage maximum development of a child's social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth. Students work with college faculty and the Children's Center Staff to plan lessons and teach in addition to meeting with parents about their children's educational development.
The aim of the Children's Center is threefold: to provide a rich preschool experience for young children, reflecting open educational concepts; to provide a learning laboratory experience for student teachers, increasing their working skills with young children; and to provide a demonstration and resource center for families, assisting them in the joyful and complex task of parenting.
If students intend to transfer to a four-year institution, they will find that the curriculum provides a solid liberal arts foundation as well as courses within education. Students will also work closely with advisors and mentors to select liberal arts and free electives that will transfer to their chosen transfer institution. If students intend to work immediately after graduation and seek Massachusetts Office for Child Care Service qualification, they wil take Introduction to Early Childhood Education rather than Foundations of Education, and complete additional practicum classes instead of 2 free electives. Students are also strongly advised to take Pediatric First Aid and Infant/Child CPR.
