Northeast’s Early Childhood Education programs equip students for fulfilling careers working with children and infants. Graduates are prepared for roles in childcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, before-and-after-school care, family home care, and as classroom aides or nannies. Students gain hands-on experience in real childcare environments, learning from seasoned professionals. As a childcare provider, you’ll facilitate playtime, teach essential skills, read stories, serve meals, and maintain open communication with parents. Northeast offers flexible educational opportunities tailored to meet both academic and career goals.
- An Associate of Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education will prepare students to directly enter the workforce as a nanny, paraprofessional, or childcare provider in a childcare center or home. It will prepare graduates for employment opportunities that allow for advancement to leadership positions in childcare centers or start their own childcare business.
- An Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education is ideal for students who intend to pursue a career working with children and wish to continue their education at a four-year college. The program includes early childhood courses as well as general education classes that meet bachelor’s degree requirements for careers in early childhood, early childhood inclusive education, or elementary education with an endorsement in early childhood.
- A Certificate in Early Childhood Education Certificate is a fast-track option that prepares students for entry-level positions in childcare and satisfies the 120 clock hours of professional early childhood education required for CDA® credentialing awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition.
Why Students Choose This Program
Students benefit from instructors who bring years of classroom and childcare experience, offering insights that go beyond textbooks. These dedicated educators are passionate about mentoring future teachers and care professionals.
Whether students are looking to a fast-track to a career with just one semester of courses, want to complete a two-year associate degree, or want foundational courses that will transfer to a four-year college or university, Northeast offers a cost-effective way to begin your journey in early childhood education.
The program blends theory and best practices in child development, behavior, and classroom management. Courses are designed to prepare students for roles in preschools, Head Start programs, daycare centers, and beyond.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Hands-on experience is a core to the Early Childhood Education program. In addition to lecture classes, students gain experience by working in childcare centers and schools. Students apply classroom knowledge in real educational settings working with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. This helps students build confidence and skills needed to be successful in an early childhood career. We also have an active student organization and have helped in providing childcare activities during special events.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students a foundational knowledge, including:
- Infant/Toddler Development
- Preschool/School Age Development
- Early Childhood Health, Safety, & Nutrition
- Early Childhood Administration
Program Details
- Associate of Applied Science Degree: 2 years (60 credits)
- Students attain Safe With You training, the Nebraska Department of Education required child care training.
- Associate of Arts Degree: 2 years (60 credits)
- Certificate: 16 weeks (17 credits)
- The certificate satisfies the 120 clock hours of professional early childhood education required for CDA® credentialing awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. To earn a CDA® in Infant and Toddler (Birth-36 months), Preschool (3-5 years), or Family Child Care candidates must also obtain 480 hours of experience working with young children and prepare a CDA® professional portfolio. See cdacouncil.org for additional information about CDA® credential requirements. Students are encouraged to complete HLTH 5131 Pediatric Basic Life Support & First Aid which is required for childcare providers. All coursework in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program will apply as full credit towards the Early Childhood Education Associate of Applied Science Degree or the Associate of Arts Degree.
Northeast offers BlendFlex, providing students with the flexibility to choose how they attend: online, in-person, or via Zoom.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
Childcare providers require a criminal background check prior to employment. Students will be required to submit a background check in ECED 1220 prior to enrolling in early childhood education practicum courses. Individuals with a criminal record may not be eligible for employment. Please check with your advisor.
Melissa Jantz, Little Panthers Preschool
Chad Bryant, Christ Lutheran Childcare
Kathy Amen, Amen 4 Kids
Cassie Hill, Kings Kids Child Care & Preschool
Tammy Day, Daycos
Beth Shashikant, Norfolk Area Childcare Collaborative
Kelsey Schnoor, St. John Early Learning Center
Shavon Bonner, Fits & Giggles
Merisa Anderson, Madison CO ECED Coordinator
Leslie Baker, Fits & Giggles
Brandy Price, ABC, 123 Childcare
