Part 1 3.7.qxp - Southwestern Oregon Community College

Childhood Education and Family Studies
Description: Students pursuing a career in early childhood elementary or
secondary education have several career options. Opportunities are available in a
variety of public and private educational and child care settings. The curriculum offers
opportunities for career training as an educational assistant in preschool, elementary,
or secondary school settings as well as preparation for teacher positions in preschool,
day care, kindergarten, or Head Start settings. Career ladder opportunities to help
students prepare for positions as licensed teachers are offered through the
Para educator/Educational Assistant Certificate of Completion program, Associate of
Science degree, with an emphasis in Childhood Education and Family Studies with
articulation options to four-year colleges and universities.
Employment Opportunities: Childhood Education and Family Studies
opportunities range from fair to excellent with occupational titles that include Child
Care Worker, Day Care Aide, Child Care Attendant, Preschool Teacher Aide, Preschool
Teacher, Lead Teacher, Classroom Assistant, Classroom Assistant/Special Education,
Instructional Assistant, Teacher Assistant, Teacher Aide, Teacher, Family Advocate,
and Child Development Specialist.
The Para Educator/Educational Assistant Certificate of Completion is a one-year
certificate that prepares students to work in public or private elementary and secondary
schools. Para Educators/educational assistants serve in positions for which a teacher or
another professional has ultimate responsibility for the design and implementation of
educational programs and services. Emphasis is placed on competency-based skill
development in child growth and development, classroom management, technology,
individuals with disabilities, working with families, and basic instructional techniques.
Students will be required to participate in a distance education or online course. Many of
this program’s courses also fulfill requirements toward an Associate of Science or
Associate of General Studies degree. Students should meet with an advisor to evaluate
professional experience and previous coursework prior to beginning this course of study.
Program notes
Certificate of Completion Para Educator/
Educational Assistant
Notes:
1. This course is offered through Chemeketa Community College as part of a
collaborative agreement between Southwestern and Chemeketa.
ECE150 may be substituted for ED101.
2. Students pursuing an AS degree should take MTH95 or higher.
3. A criminal history check is required prior to enrollment in ED270.
• All students are required to obtain a valid first aid and CPR card.
Southwestern Oregon Community College 2006-07 Catalog www.socc.edu Programs 84