Teach the generation of tomorrow.
Build the skills and confidence needed for a career in Early Childhood Education.
The A.A.S. degree in our Early Childhood Program empowers students to work in preschools, daycares and other scholastic settings. Many continue their education for advanced degrees and obtain leadership roles. Our faculty help students learn about available jobs and do everything possible to aid graduates to succeed in their field.
We also offer five certificates, including Before and After School Care, Early Childhood Educator Level 2, Early Childhood Educator Level 3, Infant/Toddler Level 2 and Infant/Toddler Level 3, all of which enhance the degree.
Moraine Valley is recognized as an entitled institution for the Gateways to Opportunity Family Child Care Credential, a state-recognized credential. .
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This program prepares students for entry-level positions in preschools, daycares and other scholastic settings.
This degree program prepares students for careers in early childhood development. It provides mid-management skills needed to work in kindergartens, nursery schools, daycare centers and special programs for children from infancy through age 8.
The Early Childhood Educator Degree Program (A.A.S.) at Moraine Valley is designed to be completed in about one year.
For a career in early childhood development, this program should take about one year if students consistently take classes and complete coursework.
Potential careers in Early Childhood Education
Moraine Valley鈥檚 early childhood education programs prepare you for careers as a teacher’s aide, childcare provider, kindergarten teacher, preschool teacher, special education teacher, school counselor, education director, education consultant and more. You鈥檒l learn about opportunities to shape the lives of young children and their families with meaningful guidance. This robust field offers a wide range of opportunities in teaching, leadership, administration, business and psychology.
Real stories of success.
The college offers MCAP, a full-time apprenticeship program with a similar course structure as the college’s general automotive A.A.S. degree program. The difference with MCAP is that it focuses on course information and hands-on activities using Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep and Ram products and procedures. As a student, you’ll also work at an approved Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep and Ram dealer or Chrysler fleet location as an entry-level technician during the internship period. Students completing the A.A.S. degree with the MCAP option also will receive a certificate from the Chrysler Group.
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Program Details
View the catalog to explore program requirements, a suggested course sequence and prerequisite information.
| Program | Type of Credential | Curriculum Code | Department or Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| A.A.S. | 1264 | Education |
Faculty Spotlight
Celebrating the passionate instructors who inspire, support, and engage our students every day inside and outside the classroom.
Dr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications DepartmentDr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications DepartmentDr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications Department
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