Degree in Early Childhood Education & Administration
Degree & Certificate Programs
Program Details
The Early Childhood Education and Administration program for students interested in working with young children. The program will prepare students for Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) certification as Lead Teacher and, after six months of work experience, as a director in a childcare setting. The curriculum is designed to meet the standards of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Formal instruction is integrated with fieldwork in the form of a supervised practicum experience. The opportunity to observe and work in early childhood facilities will support course work, as well as fulfill EEC employment requirements. Admission to the Early Childhood Education and Administration Program, however, does not ensure a practicum placement.
Prior to the students obtaining a practicum assignment, their records may be subject to review pursuant to the Criminal Record Information Act, Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6, Sections 172-178, and Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 28 A, Section 1 et seq., and regulations promulgated pursuant to such statutes.
Graduates earn an Associate in Science Degree.
Academic Map
Degree in Early Childhood Education & Administration
A minimum of 19 classes and 60 credits is required. At least 15 credits of your program must be taken at Massasoit. Note: Each course completed and passed can only fulfill one program requirement. The same course cannot be used to satisfy multiple program requirements. A minimum grade of 2.0 (C) is required for all Early Childhood courses. A minimum grade of C+ is required for ECED 250 and 260.
Semester 1
3 Credits in ECED 102
Development in Early Childhood
3 Credits in ECED 105
Introduction to Early Childhood Education
3 Credits in ECED 112
Health, Nutrition, and Safety Needs of the Young Child
3 Credits in ENGL 101
English Composition I
3 Credits in either SPCH 105 or SPCH 107
Speech Communication or Oral Interpretation
Semester 2
3 Credits in ECED 101
Positive Guidance
3 Credits in ECED 111
Early Childhood Curriculum: A Multi-Cultural Perspective
3 Credits in ENGL 102
English Composition II
3 Credits in either PSYC 101 or SOCI 104
(General Psychology or Principles of Sociology)
3 Credits in MATH 116 or higher (except MATH 125 and MATH 126)
Math Experiences for Early Childhood Education or Math elective
Semester 3
3 Credits in ECED 217
The Young Child with Special Needs
3 Credits in ECED 231
Infant and Toddler Curriculum
4 Credits in ECED 250
Practicum I in Early Childhood Education
3 Credits in SOCI 208
Family and Community
3 Credits in Science elective
Semester 4
3 Credits in ECED 201
Administration, Supervision, and Management of Child Care Programs
3 Credits in ECED 211
Child Care Policies and Issues
5 Credits in ECED 260
Practicum II Early Childhood Education and Administration
3 Credits in Department Approved elective
This academic map is a suggested semester-by-semester guide to keep you on a clear path to program completion. Please note that some classes are offered only in certain semesters, have prerequisites, or minimum passing grades. Winter and/or Summer Session classes may be available for some classes. Your academic advisor will provide you with clear direction needed to stay on course and discuss scheduling options with you. Taking courses not reflected on this map may result in courses not counting toward the completion of your requirements.
Advisory Committee
This committee is composed of dedicated educators, childcare professionals, community leaders, and industry experts who collaborate to ensure our programs reflect the latest research, best practices, and workforce needs in early childhood education. By providing valuable input on curriculum development, licensure requirements, and field experiences, the committee plays a key role in preparing students to become compassionate, knowledgeable, and effective early childhood educators. Together, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of young children and the professionals who serve them.
- Lorne Ranstrom
Eastern Nazarene College - Ann Marie Rush
College Early Childhood Consultant - Patti Plummer-Wilson
Brockton Day Nursery - Judith Ward
Child Care Education Alumna - Christine Principe
Child Care Education faculty (retired) - Sarah Sullivan
Child Care Education Alumna