Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A) Degree in Child Care Management
Majors Overview October 31, 2013Take the time to learn more about associate degree programs in child care management. After reading this article, you will get information about career options, licensure, requirements, and courses needed to help you make a decision about your future education.
Child Care Management Associate Degree Programs
Students enrolled in child care management associate degree programs are taught how to teach and care for children at different stages of development, and to manage child care facilities and programs. The program also arms students with the skills necessary to successfully operate a business. This program is offered at some postsecondary institutions such as community colleges, universities and colleges, in formats such as an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Associate of Science (A.S.). Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework in child care management associate programs combine specialized classes and generalized education courses together. Students enrolled in these programs undergo hands-on training or learn from observation in child care environments. There are on-campus child care centers in some schools; these are used to provide practical training to students enrolled in early childhood-related programs. Coursework may include these topic areas:
•Child psychology
•Program planning
•Financial management
•Childhood safety and health
•Classroom management
•Child development
•Family relations
•Nutrition
•Managerial principles
•Staff management
Career Choices Popular in Child Care Management
Those who successfully complete the program may seek teaching jobs in child care settings, and may even aspire to start their own child care centers. These professionals can choose from these various career options:
•Head Start program teacher
•Day care teacher
•Child care facility administrator
Continuing Education and Licensure Choices
Child care providers, who are entrusted with the care of a certain number of juvenile wards, are required to obtain licensure, regardless of the state in which they are located, although the licensure norms may be different in each state. Staffing regulations are required to be satisfied by child care facilities, and minimum education requirements are usually needed to be satisfied by child care directors. In accordance with his/ her career goals, a child care provider may seek voluntary certification; the Council for Professional Recognition offers the Child Development Associate (CDA) designation, and the National Child Care Association provides the Child Care Professional (CCP) credential.
Graduates may opt for continuing education by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program, in a related field, which would allow them to teach students in public schools. Students enrolled in some programs are allowed to transfer credits earned toward enrollment into a bachelor’s degree program.
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