UCCI

The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education at UCCI provides students with essential skills in child development, curriculum planning, and classroom management. With a blend of coursework and supervised practicums, this program prepares graduates for entry-level roles in early childhood centers and kindergartens or for further study in UCCI’s bachelor’s programs. Graduates gain a well-rounded foundation in early education, emphasizing the development of social, cognitive, and emotional skills in young children.

Key Facts about the Programme

Programme Duration

2 years (full-time)

Semesters Offered

Available in Fall and Spring semesters

Total Credits Required

62 credits

Accreditation

Meets local and regional educational standards for early childhood education.

Unique Selling Points

Hands-On Practicum

Students complete supervised practicums in real-world early childhood settings, gaining invaluable experience.

Pathway to Bachelor’s Degree

Graduates can transition smoothly into UCCI’s Bachelor of Education program.

Child-Centered Curriculum

Courses emphasize best practices in early childhood education, focusing on holistic child development

Career Information

Average Starting Salary

Entry-level roles in early childhood education typically start around $30,000 - $40,000 USD, depending on experience and role.

Key Jobs After Graduation

Early Childhood Educator: Engages young children in learning activities that support social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Preschool Teacher Assistant: Supports the lead teacher in daily classroom activities, working with young children to foster early learning.
Childcare Worker: Provides care and supervision for children in daycare settings, engaging them in structured play and basic learning activities.
Education Support Staff: Assists in classrooms, helping maintain a safe and supportive environment for young learners.

Potential Employers in the Cayman Islands

Ministry of Education: Roles in early childhood programs within public institutions.
Early years centres: Early childhood roles focusing on foundational skills and social development

Ready to start?

Take the first step toward your future, apply now or schedule a visit to learn more.

Core Courses

ECE 100

Foundations of Early Childhood Education (3 credits)

ECE 101

Science of Early Childhood Development (3 credits)

ECE 102

Guiding Young Children (3 credits)

ECE 103

Understanding & Implementing Play and Inquiry-Based Learning

ECE 204

Early Childhood Development for Social Change (3 credits)

ECE 205

Curriculum in Early Childhood/STEM (3 credits)

ECE 206

Health Safety, and Nutrition (3 credits)

EDU 220

Child Development (3 credits)

EDU 240

Methods of Inclusion and Collaboration (3 credits)

EDU 271

Supervised Field Practicum I (45 hours)

EDU 272

Supervised Field Practicum II (45 hours)

Practicum

Supervised Field Practicum I

(45 hours) (3 credits)

Supervised Field Practicum II

(45 hours) (3 credits)

Additional Requirements

Science Requirement

3–4 credits

Social Science Requirement

3 credits

Elective

3 credits, chosen in consultation with an advisor

Degree Plan (Suggested Sequence)

Year 1 - Fall

ENG 101 - College Composition I
COL 101 - College and Employability Skills
ECE 100 - Foundations of Early Childhood Education
ECE 101 - Science of Early Childhood Development

Year 1 - Spring

ENG 102 - College Composition II
MAT 100 Introductory Algebra & Geometry
ECE 102 - Guiding Young Children
SPA 101 - Introduction to Spanish I/Lab
COM 110 - Computer Applications in Business

Summer

ECE 206 - Health Safety, and Nutrition
EDU 220 - Child Development

Year 2 - Fall

EDU 240 - Methods of Inclusion and Collaboration
ECE 103 Understanding & Implementing Play and Inquiry Based Learning
Science Requirement (Environmental or Biology)
EDU 271 Supervised Field Practicum I (45 hours required)

Year 2 - Spring

HIS 120 - Caymanian Society
ECE 204 - Early Childhood Development for Social Change
ECE 205 - Curriculum in Early Childhood/STEM
EDU 272 Supervised Field Practicum II (45 hours required)

Electives & Future Study Options

Future Study Options

Graduates can seamlessly transition into UCCI’s Bachelor of Education program to continue their studies in early childhood education. This bachelor’s program provides advanced training and qualifications for teaching roles, curriculum development, and early childhood program management

The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education at UCCI prepares students to foster early learning and development in young children. With practical experience through supervised practicums and a strong theoretical foundation, graduates are well-prepared for roles in preschools, childcare centers, and educational support positions. This program also offers a clear pathway to advanced studies for those committed to a career in early education.