Programs
Early Childhood Development Certificate Program
The demand for well trained, highly skilled, caring individuals to work with young children is growing rapidly. Our Early Childhood Development Programs were designed for those who are serious about pursuing a challenging career dedicated to the support of developing young children and their families. From a whole-child perspective, this training will focus on the needs of children, ages birth through age 8.
Completion of one of the programs in Early Childhood Development through Rockland Community College would prepare students to be more competitive in their search for rewarding jobs in a variety of Early Childhood settings.
The carefully planned Early Childhood Development sequence includes coursework in child development, program management techniques, curriculum activity planning, and actual experience observing and working with young children. Students have several program options when taking our courses:
- Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential of Training (3 RCC/ECD courses - 9 credits)
Designed for those presently working with young children who are seeking this nationally recognized credential for childcare providers, working with ages birth through 5 years old. This program is co-sponsored by the Rockland Council for Young Children which oversees the final fieldwork and assessment requirements. Call 845-425-0009 for more information.
- Early Childhood Development Certificate (7 RCC//ECD courses - 19 credits and 4 Liberal Arts courses - 12 credits)
Designed for those who want to further specialize in understanding and working effectively with young children. Throughout their study, students are required to observe and work directly with young children in a variety of fieldwork settings. Simultaneously, students work on several Liberal Arts course requirements (such as English and Speech) to ensure strong communication skills for certificate graduates.
- A.A. Degree, Liberal Arts and Sciences - Humanities and Social Science/Elementary /Education Education Pre K-6 (63 RCC credits required) Jointly Registered Program/SUNY New Paltz.
Many Liberal Arts students transferring to baccalaureate colleges and universities choose to take several Psychology/Early Childhood courses as electives to better prepare them for their student teaching assignments as college seniors.
Childcare Fieldwork Experience
Closely associated with the Psychology/Early Childhood Program is the newly renovated Campus Fun & Learn Child Development Center. This fully licensed center serves as an outstanding model of quality childcare in Rockland County. Many RCC students begin their Early Childhood fieldwork experiences here under the carefully supervised guidance of their professional staff of teachers.
Childcare services are available to families of RCC students, Faculty & Staff, and also to community residents. Children range in age from 2 years 9 months to 6 years. Parents may register for blocks of time in both half day and full day scheduling options. Childcare Assistance Scholarships are available to qualifying families.
For information regarding the Campus Fun & Learn Child Development Center please call: 845-356-6563.
