Program Overview
Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a vocational program designed to prepare students for employment in a variety of early childhood settings. Course content focuses on the educational and developmental needs of children from birth to age eight. The ECE program combines theory and practical experience with emphasis placed on active student involvement. Coursework includes participation, observation, and practical experience.
Students may enroll in the ECE program at the beginning of any quarter on either a full or part-time basis. Most courses are offered in the evenings or on Saturdays to accommodate the varied schedules of working students.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

• Associate Degree of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education (AAS) - 92 credits
• Early Childhood Education Certificate - 47 credits
• Early Childhood Education Child Care Certificate of Completion - 15 credits
• Child Development Associate (CDA) - Certificate of Completion - 10 credits
• State Training and Registry System (STARS) - Certificate of Completion - variable credits

Program Goals
Upon completion of the program, successful students will demonstrate both practical skills and foundational knowledge of best practices in early care and education in order to:

• Understand and apply the principles of child development and learning for children birth to age eight
• Create a nurturing child-centered environment that considers the needs of the whole child
• Design curriculum and assessments that are developmentally appropriate and responsive to the diverse needs of children
• Practice current first-aid, health, and safety techniques
• Demonstrate the ability to select guidance strategies tailored to the unique needs of each child
• Utilize core knowledge of the early childhood field to demonstrate intentional decision-making about policies and practices for children
• Engage with children, families, colleagues, community, and society ethically and professionally
• Enter the workforce prepared to deliver quality services to young children and their families in a variety of settings

ECE Courses

Program Outcomes

EDUC& Courses

Faculty

• Carolyn Fazzari
  ECE/Parent Education Director
  Location: A building
  Phone: 509-542-4624
  Email: cfazzari@columbiabasin.edu
  Education: B.A., Eastern Washington University