Employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected due to a continued focus on the importance of early childhood education.
The A.A.S. degree in our Early Childhood Program allow students to work in preschools, daycares and other settings. Many continue their education for advanced degrees and obtain leadership roles. Our faculty assist students with learning about available jobs and do everything possible to help graduates succeed in their field.
We also offer five stackable certificates including, Before and After School Care, Early Childhood Educator Level 2, Early Childhood Educator Level 3, Infant/Toddler Level 2, Infant/Toddler Level 3.
Moraine Valley is recognized as an entitled institution for the Gateways to Opportunity Family Child Care Credential, a state-recognized credential. Learn more.
$14.52
Median Hourly Pay
$30,210
Median Annual Salary
This 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.
This program provides knowledge including the legal requirements for administering and running a before and after school program.
This program prepares students to work with children ages three to eight at the most basic level. All students must have a high school diploma or GED. Students will develop the basic skills and theoretical practice to work in a variety of educational settings in schools, families, and communities with children from age three through eight years old.
This program prepares students for a career in early childhood education with children ages three to eight years old. It provides opportunities for students to build on the skills established in the Early Childhood Educator Level 2 certificate and to develop the additional necessary skills and theoretical practice to work in a variety of educational settings in schools, families, and communities from ages three to eight years old.
The program prepares the student to work with infants and toddlers at the most basic level. All students must have a high school diploma or GED.
This program prepares students for a career in early childhood education in the infant and toddlers field. It provides opportunities for students to build on the skills established in the Infant/Toddler Level 2 Certificate and to develop the additional necessary skills and theoretical practice to work in a variety of educational settings in schools, families, and communities from birth to age 4.
ILLINOIS DIRECTOR LEVEL 1
This certificate cannot be attempted until you have completed all requirements for the A.A.S. degree. Complete all courses for the Early Childhood Educator A.A.S. Degree, plus the following required courses:
ECE-253
ECE-257
And either of the following classes:
EDU-105
EDU-108
Successfully complete the coursework for this degree, and you will be eligible to apply for IL Director Level 1 Credential through Gateways.
Earning this credential can help you move into an administrative or director role and support positive impacts you hope to bring.
In this new role, you can expect to:
- Manage school budgets
- Hire teachers and staff
- Implement new curriculum
- Maintain program compliance
- and other responsibilities
To learn more contact the program coordinator, Gail Ditchman, at (708) 974-5564 or complete the form below.
Program Details
| Program Name | Type of Credential | Curriculum Code | Department or Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before and After School Care | Certificate | 1474 | Education |
| Early Childhood Educator | A.A.S. | 1264 | Education |
| Infant/Toddler Level 2 | Certificate | 1472 | Education |
| Infant/Toddler Level 3 | Certificate | 1473 | Education |
Questions?
Contact the program coordinator, Gail Ditchman, at (708) 974-5564 or complete the form below.
