Early Childhood Education Banner
Career & Academic Pathways >> Public Safety & Education
Contact Information
Diane Lee (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4824
dilee@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
•  Download our Info Sheet
•  Visit MPC Early Childhood Education
•  Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

Help shape the next generation by giving them the foundation to flourish in their growth, in school and beyond. Students in the Early Childhood Education program learn theories and principles of childhood development; how to create developmentally appropriate curricula; and best practices for safe, healthy, and inclusive environments that optimize children’s creativity and problem-solving skills.  Students will have the opportunity to observe, experience, and implement curriculum firsthand at a high quality lab preschool that includes an outdoor learning environment. 

Job Outlook

There are abundant local job opportunities for qualified teachers. In 2018-2019, there were 913 postings in early childhood education in the Monterey area.  The Monterey County Office of Education, Salinas City Elementary School District, and Santa Cruz City Schools are among the area’s top employers.

Potential Careers

Childcare Workers

$23,670 - $40,160

*Preschool Teachers
(may require additional training)

$25,590 - $53,720

*Pre-K Special Education Teachers
(may require additional training)

$30,990 – $87,900

*Preschool/Daycare Directors
(may require additional training)

$34,290 - $90,180

*Child & School Social Workers
(may require additional training)

$35,490 - $94,790 

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Early Childhood Education - Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA-T)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3

ENGL 2 

 3

MATH 16 

 4 ECED 1 3
ECED 51 3

ECED 80

 3

ECED 55 

 3 Area B1 & B3 4 

Area C1

 3

Area D

 3
       US-2 & 3 rec.  
       
Total Fall Units
 16
 Total Spring Units
 16

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

Area A1

 3
 ECED 56 3
ECED 2 4

ECED 52 

 4
ECED 61 3

Area C2

 3
 Area B2 3

   US-1 rec.

Area C1 or C2

 3-5

CSU Elective

 3
        
       
Total Fall Units
 15-17 Total Spring Units
 13

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Nittaya Robinson

I never dreamed of becoming a preschool teacher until I was given the opportunity to visit the campus with my daughter as a young adult. Once I saw all the teachers in action at the Child Development center, I knew this was the route I wanted to take. Although it was a struggle working full time and attending classes at night, MPC made it possible for me--the flexible hours of classes, as well as the support system that was offered with books, financial support, and much more. It has been an amazing journey, becoming a teacher and now an ECE Administrator for our local school District and Adjunct Faculty for MPC.