Early childhood education (ECE) is the study of child development and developmentally appropriate practices for young children. Career paths chosen by students pursuing undergraduate studies in ECE commonly include infant/toddler or preschool teachers and administrators. Careers in the discipline that generally require graduate-level degrees include administrators of government funded programs like Head Start and state preschools. Even students who choose not to major in ECE find that coursework in the field improves their parenting skills.
College of the Desert’s ECE curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline, as well as teaching strategies that are developmentally appropriate for young children. Students earning ECE certificates may also choose to continue their study toward an associate, baccalaureate or advanced degree in the field. Students earning an associate’s degree in ECE may pursue entry-level positions as preschool teachers or may choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor’s or graduate degree. COD has transfer agreements with CSUSB, in this discipline/program. However, transfer requirements at four-year colleges and universities tend to vary from institution to institution; students should consult with a counselor for specific information regarding the transfer requirements of their preferred college or university. For more information please call (760) 773-2579 or (760) 568-3093.
Advisors: D. Greene, W. Sanders
ECE Faculty Advisors:
Associate in Science Degree for Transfer (AS-T)
Certificate
CURRENT ITEMS OF INTEREST:
- CAMPUS CHILD CARE: The McCarthy Child Development and Training center serves children 12 months to 5 years old. It is state-funded, providing care for school hours as well as breakfast, lunch, and/or snack depending on the hours of care. Parents must prove income eligibility and need of services. Please call 760-862-1308 for more information.
- Child Development Permit This link containts basic information on who needs a permit and how to obtain one. Includes links to further resources.
Child Development Training Consortium Grants
Attention!
If you are an ECE student here at College of the Desert and are also working with children, you may qualify for a stipend from the Child Development Training Consortium. You must apply each semester to qualify for this grant. Please read the attached instructions, fill out the student profile, print it and have it signed by your employer.
Student Profile form
By September 21st, bring or mail it to:
College of the Desert
School of Health Science and Education
Attention: Donna Greene
43500 Monterey Ave
Palm Desert, CA 92260