Child smiling and looking above the camera, seated inside a daycare with an adult.

Early Childhood Education

A.A.S.
Certificate
Diploma
High School Option

Make a Big Impact for Our Smallest Learners

The preschool years are a pivotal time in a child’s development, shaping the way they think, learn, and interact with the world around them. During this stage, their brains are developing at an extraordinary rate, absorbing new information and forming connections that will influence their future learning experiences.

A nurturing, stimulating environment during these early years is essential for building a strong foundation in cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

At South Piedmont, we are committed to preparing the next generation of early childhood educators.

Our comprehensive programs equip future teachers with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience necessary to make a meaningful, life-changing impact on the lives of young children.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your career in early childhood education, South Piedmont will empower you to become the teacher who shapes the future—one child at a time.

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The Program Options

2 Years 66 Credit Hours
Our Early Childhood Education degree will prepare you for immediate employment in childcare centers, preschools, and Head Start programs while providing the credential required for lead teacher positions and higher salary potential. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

2 Years 70 Credit Hours
The Transfer Pathway in Early Childhood Education positions you to seamlessly continue your education at a four-year institution, where you can complete a bachelor’s degree in education with advanced standing and potentially pursue teacher licensure. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 16 Credit Hours
This short-term credential will provide you with essential knowledge of child development and early learning practices while serving as a stepping stone if you decide to pursue an associate degree. This certificate will help you gain immediate employment in the early childhood field while continuing your education 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 16 Credit Hours
The Administration Certificate in Early Childhood Education will prepare you for leadership and management positions in preschools, childcare centers, and early learning programs, enabling you to serve as a director, assistant director, or program coordinator. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
A Pre-K Certificate in Early Childhood Education will qualify you to work directly with 3- to 5-year-old children in pre-kindergarten classrooms, private preschools, Head Start programs, and childcare centers 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 16 Credit Hours
An Infant and Toddler Certificate in Early Childhood Education will qualify you for specialized positions working with children from birth to 3 years old in childcare centers, Early Head Start programs, and family childcare homes. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1.5 Years 44 Credit Hours
The Early Childhood Education Diploma will qualify you for lead teacher positions in childcare centers, preschools, and Head Start programs. This option offers more comprehensive preparation than a certificate while requiring less time than a full associate degree 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 13 Credit Hours
This program will prepare you to work as a teacher’s aide, childcare provider, or preschool teacher in daycare centers, preschools, or Head Start programs. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
The Enhanced Early Childhood CTE certificate will provide you with specialized skills for immediate employment while offering pathways for continued education and career growth. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

Unweighted GPA of 2.8

1.5 Years 37 Credit Hours
The CTE diploma provides both immediate career readiness and long-term growth opportunities across a variety of fields. It is an excellent choice if you are looking to enter the workforce quickly while keeping options open for further advancement. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

Unweighted GPA of 2.8

Free


South Piedmont students receive a free membership to the Smart Start Resource Center.

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Ages of children you’ll be able to teach after completing the Early Childhood Education program.

$$$


Funding is available to offset the cost of this program. Reach out to us to learn more.

You’ll Make “Ah-Ha” Moments Happen

At South Piedmont, you’ll learn from highly qualified and experienced educators who’ve spent years working in childcare settings.

As an Early Childhood Education student, you’ll gain foundational knowledge in all aspects of child development, from cognitive and language to social, emotional, physical, motor, and creative.You’ll also learn skills to help you communicate effectively, build relationships, and manage your preschool classroom.

Our alumni are working at childcare centers throughout Anson and Union counties, and our graduates are always in high demand.

Side view of the Main Building, located on South Piedmont's Old Charlotte Highway campus.
Damita Moss, left, posing with another South Piedmont student.

Teaching Skills and Confidence

What I love most is the ‘ah-ha’ moments. I love giving the kids confidence too, especially in math. I help them to see how we use math in everyday life, why it’s important, and that they can do it, even when it gets hard.

Damita Moss, left, with her fellow Early Childhood Education student, Jasmin Miller

Make the Most of Your Time at South Piedmont

All South Piedmont faculty, staff, and students are able to borrow early childhood education resources for FREE through our Smart Start Resource Center.

Alliance for Children logo.

Funding Opportunities

Funding may be available to pay for your Early Childhood Education program at South Piedmont.Financial assistance is available through Pell, TEACH, STWD, and Golden Leaf.

Additionally, the Education Stars program helps childcare providers pursue advanced degrees by enabling them to earn credits for EDU classes free of charge. Eligible students must be employed full time at a licensed childcare facility in Union County. Education Stars pays for tuition, e-books, and fees on behalf of the student. Education Stars participants may also take EDU 119 (required for your NC State credential) at no cost.

Licensed Union County childcare centers are encouraged to utilize Education Stars to advance their workers’ education and raise their center’s star rating. There is no monetary cost to the center or teacher. The Education Stars Program at South Piedmont is in partnership with and funded by The Alliance for Children.

To receive more information about Education Stars, please submit your contact information.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Get in Touch

We’re excited to talk to you about your future and how we can help you reach your goals. Reach out today!