Early Childhood Development

Make a positive impact on the lives of children and take your early childhood career to the next level!

Program Overview

This program is designed to prepare individuals for employment in early childhood educational settings and to enhance the knowledge and skills of individuals currently employed in the field. The Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development degree provides the foundation for transfer to partner four-year institutions to earn a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (PreK – 3^rd Grade) with a teaching license.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills to provide high-quality early childhood educational experiences for children in preschools, childcare centers, Head Start, and before and after school programs.

Students earning an AAS in Early Childhood Development may serve in the following preschool and childcare center positions: Lead Teachers, Directors, Owners/Operators, Curriculum Specialists. The degree also qualifies individuals for employment as instructional assistants in the public-school setting.

Program Highlights

Courses are offered fully online to provide flexibility for students juggling work and family responsibilities.
Courses are taught by experienced faculty who are dedicated to preparing students to excel in the early childhood classroom.
Scholarships are available to cover the cost of tuition, fees, and books – many students pay nothing!

Grants and Scholarships

Davenport Institute Expansion Grant

Eligible Students Receive $1500!

The Davenport Grant offers eligible students:

Financial Support – receive $1,500 total ($250 per month for 6 months) as you progress successfully through the program.
Scholarship Assistance – guidance in applying for scholarships covering tuition, fees, and books.
Coaching and Support – engage in a program that provides personalized coaching to ensure your academic success and readiness as an early childhood practitioner.
Cohort Experience – build peer relationships through a cohort-based learning approach.

Who’s Eligible?

New students enrolling in 6 or more credits in any of our Early Childhood Development programs.
Current employees in early childhood settings working with young children.
Eligible for G3 tuition assistance based on your FAFSA submission.
Students eager to enhance their skills and knowledge in child development and teaching best practices.
Individuals committed to working collaboratively with faculty and staff for academic success and program completion.

Program Testimonials

“I operate an in-home, on-farm, experiential learning child care and preschool in Rockingham County for ages 2-5 years old. This degree will enable students and local providers to further enhance their knowledge and understanding of early education. This will, in turn, allow them to provide exceptional care to children in the Shenandoah Valley.”
Brandi Dacko
Owner & Provider, Flip-Flop Farm Child Care & Preschool

“When quality care is available to children in our community, we are setting them up for success by establishing an important foundation in their first five years of development. Offering this degree will help us employ candidates who are knowledgeable about child development and who can provide meaningful interactions.”
“Having the right tools when working with young children is the key to success. This degree is the pathway to gaining these skills which makes these graduates an asset to centers like ours.”
Laurie Deavers
Executive Director, Generations Crossing