Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) offers several opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in education. Courses offered within each program vary depending upon college and career path. For example, the Ohio Department of Education requires a four-year degree with licensure to serve as a lead educator in a public school setting. Fortunately, students can save time and money by earning an associate degree from Tri-C first and transferring to the four-year school of their choice.
Click here to learn more about tuition incentive programs or continue reading below to learn about Tri-C's Associate Degree and Transfer pathway in Education.
Early Childhood Education (Ages 0-5 years): Associate of Applied Science degree
The Associate of Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education prepares students to teach young children in a variety of inclusive settings, including preschools pre-kindergarten, Head Start, child care centers and infant/toddler programs. Qualified graduates can earn Ohio Pre-Kindergarten Associate Licensure (certain requirements must be met).
Learn more about the AAS in Early Childhood Education and view available courses in this discipline.
Early Childhood Education (Pre-K Through 5th Grade and Adolescent to Young Adult): Associate of Arts degree
This program starts students on the path to teaching within a public school system upon transfer and completion of a four-year degree at an appropriate college or university. Pre-K-level coursework focuses on early childhood development, including early literacy, the importance of pre-math skills, incorporating science and music, reading, mathematics and social studies. Middle and high school courses prepare students for a higher level of teaching and allow them to choose an area of specialization (i.e., English, Mathematics, Social Studies or Science). Students may also consider a dual-licensure track at their preferred four-year institution.
Students interested in this pathway complete an Associate of Arts degree made up of foundational studies including general education coursework and introductory education classes to prepare for transfer to a four-year baccalaureate program. The Associate of Arts is a flexible degree that allows students to select coursework based on their planned four-year program of transfer and study. Students should meet with an academic counselor to create the best path for their individual college and career goals.
Visit the transfer center/university partnerships page to view available transfer pathways and articulation agreements from Tri-C to four-year institutions.
Learn more about focused courses in this discipline.
Visit Teacher License Overview and Early Childhood and Primary Childhood Supplemental Teaching License to learn more about Ohio licensure requirements.