The Early Childhood Studies Associate in Science degree at Oxnard College is designed to prepare students for the role of Teacher, with responsibility for implementing developmentally appropriate early childhood teaching strategies under guided supervision. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families.

Upon completing the major requirements for the Associate Degree in Early Childhood Studies, students will qualify for a teacher-level permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This permit will allow them to teach under the supervision of an Early Education Program Director or Supervisor in federally-funded programs, family-home care owner or center-based programs, intervention programs, respite care programs, private programs or non-profit agencies.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Understand and apply child development theories and principles.
• Identify and implement observation, documentation, and other assessment strategies.
• Value and cultivate collaborative family and community relationships.
• Identify, develop, and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and teaching practices to positively guide children's behavior and learning.
• Develop self-reflective habits and grow as members of the early childhood profession to understand the complexities of working with diverse groups of families, children, staff and the community.
• Develop an environment that honors the diversity of the learning community - through empowerment, equity, respect, and dignity.