The Education degree is offered to those seeking employment
in educational occupations. The Educational Services Program
specifically prepares students to enter the fields of early
childhood education, as a preschool teacher, child care provider,
or education, as a paraeducator.
For both certificate and AAS programs, students are provided with
a well-rounded and diverse education that consists of collegiate-
level general education coursework and a core of technical
courses in the fields of child development and education. All
students gain practical experience by completing cooperative
work experience and supervised practicum in local schools,
child care centers, and agencies that serve children and families.
To earn the AAS degree, students must satisfactorily complete
all the requirements of the degree including a minimum of 90
credits, 40 of which are in the General Education Component. The
General Education requirement allows the flexibility to continue
professional development later, by applying the basic skills
gained to more in-depth study.
One-year certificates are offered in emphasis areas of Paraeducator
and Early Childhood Educator. These programs may serve as a fast
track leading to entry-level employment or a ladder to the AAS
in Education.
Core outcomes of the Early Childhood Education and Education
programs include: Promote child development and learning;
develop appropriate curriculum, programs, and environments
that respect diversity; establish family and community
relationships and develop an understanding of and sensitivity
to differences; exhibit professional skills; observe, report, and
assess children’s learning; accommodate and advocate for diverse
learners; integrate education technology into the classroom.
Successful pursuit of this degree requires students to possess
collegiate skills in reading, communication, computation,and
critical thinking. To acquire that competency, it is highly
recommended that students complete pre-collegiate courses to
gain these skills in the first terms of their program.
Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program is a career
ladder that accommodates the needs of both part-time and
fulltime students. The Certificate Program meets the minimum
requirements for teachers in an Oregon licensed child care facility.
Required courses for the certificate program are applicable to the
AAS program.
Paraeducator
The Education program is designed to allow students to pursue a
career as an educational assistant in regular or special education
classrooms. Students who complete the AAS degree will be
prepared to meet future training requirements for Paraeducators
under Title I. This program also provides the opportunity to
explore careers in teaching or special education