Child Care Career

Program Goals Statement

The Early Childhood Education Career program prepares students to become eligible for Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care lead teacher qualification. Students select one of two concentration areas; Infant-Toddler or Preschool.

Program Information

• Students should follow the recommended course sequence provided in the catalog.
• Students should meet with the early childhood coordinator of the program they are in prior to registering for courses.
• Students intending to enroll in a teaching practicum and seminar must meet with the Department Chair the semester before enrollment to ensure that the students meet all prerequisites and requirements.

Special Requirements for the Program

Health Requirements

• Accepted applicants must have a physical examination, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis B immunizations or titres (blood to prove immunity). TB test required each year. Health Insurance is required. 

• C.O.R.I. (Criminal Offender Record Information) and S.O.R.I. (Sexual Offender Registry Information) background checks are required prior to clinical placement and are conducted in accordance with State regulations by both Bristol Community College and early child care agencies/elementary schools. Students may be required to complete fingerprinting and would be financially responsible for any costs associated with fingerprinting.

Academic Expectations

• All Early Childhood students must achieve grades of “C-” or better in all subject courses with an ECE designation.

After Bristol

• MassTransfer eligibility
• Upon completion of the degree, students are eligible to work in an intermediate level position in the field of early childhood education
• Courses address the knowledge and competencies required for MA Department of Early Education and Care teacher qualifications with toddler and preschool-age children. Students should access the Department of Early Education and Care website and follow directions regarding qualifications.

Infused General Education Competencies

Ethical Dimensions, Oral Communication, Technical Literacy

Fieldwork

During the Teaching Practicum experience and other field based experiences, Early Childhood students should be aware that meeting young children's safety, social, emotional and educational needs come first. Students must be able to competently carry out tasks and responsibilities as developmentally appropriate and accurately monitor children in their charge. 

Transportation to fieldwork sites is the responsibility of the student. Students should be prepared to travel up to an hour from campus for these assignments.