Are you interested in working with children? Your path to a impactful career starts here!
This program equips students with the skills and knowledge to support the development and learning of young children. Learn how a child grows, develops, and learns at different ages and stages. Graduates are prepared for careers and can chart pathways to state certification or transferring to four-year university programs.
Career Opportunities
The early childhood education program will prepare you for work in a variety of occupations and career paths, including:
- Classroom Teacher or Assistant
- Site Supervisor or Program Director
- Mentor, Teacher or Coach
- Family Childcare Provider
- Child and Family Advocate
- Special Education
Degrees and Certificates
Change your life with an early childhood education degree and/or certificate. Our program gives you options to explore.
- Associate in Science - Early Childhood Education
- Associate in Science for Transfer - Early Childhood Education
- Certificate of Achievement - Associate Teacher
- Certificate of Achievement - Basic
- Certificate of Achievement – Early Childhood Education Practitioner
- Certificate of Achievement - Teacher
- Certificate of Achievement - Master Teacher
- Certificate of Achievement - Site Supervisor
DVC prepared me very well to enter the field. I learned how to craft lesson plans tailored to students’ interests. I learned how development can vary greatly between each child. And I also developed a greater understanding of how a child’s success depends on the cooperation between parents, the school, and the child’s environment.
Luis Gonzalez, Student
About degrees and certificates
Certificates:
A certificate readily prepares you to enter a particular field or career. It can also give you new skills for advancement in the workplace.
Associate Degrees:
An associate degree requires a broader education for career options in a range of industries. It's a great step towards earning a bachelor degree at a four-year school or entering the workforce sooner.
Associate Degrees for Transfer:
A transfer degree is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. Earning one can guarantee admission to California State Universities, some private and online universities, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). ADTs, along with a transfer agreement guarantee (TAG) with the University of California system can help you achieve your goals for less. Learn about transfer services.