Early Education Technology
The Early Education Technology program prepares students for rewarding careers working with young children in public, private, corporate, and faith-based early childhood education settings. Graduates may work in child care centers, preschool programs, and other early education environments serving children from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Students may choose to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree or a Career Certificate. The program combines classroom instruction, supervised laboratory experiences, and work-based learning opportunities to help students build the knowledge and skills needed to care for, teach, and guide children from birth through age eight.
Courses may be offered in hybrid formats, including evening and summer options. To enroll in these courses, students must be employed in a child care center or another approved early childhood education setting.
Minimum admission requirements (in addition to general admission requirements) must include one of the following:
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Attain a 15 composite score on the ACT;
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Score 230 on the ACCUPLACER NG Reading Section and the ACCUPLACER NG Arithmetic Section;
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Complete 15 semester hours of general education coursework with an average of “C” or above at an accredited college or university. Developmental coursework does not satisfy this requirement; AND Attend an orientation session with the program coordinator after all other requirements are met.
Other Requirements:
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Students entering the program for the first time must contact the program advisor prior to enrolling in any early education courses.
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All students admitted into the program will be required to pay for fingerprinting and background checks, which will be done after admission and prior to practicum classes. These fees will be attached as registration fees. There are certain convictions that will prevent an individual from being eligible to participate in this program. If a student is unable to participate in practicum classes, he/she will be dismissed from the program. For additional information, contact the program coordinator.
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All students must have their Health 121 Form and Fingerprint clearance letter on file with the program coordinator.
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Transfer students from other Early Education Technology programs must have a letter of recommendation from the Program Coordinator at their previous school and take at least twelve (12) hours or three (3) Early Education classes at Meridian Community College prior to enrolling in Initial and/or Advanced Practicums.
If student does not meet admission requirements, contact the program coordinator directly for admission approval.
Progression: To Meet graduation requirements for this program, students must successfully complete the specified courses listed below with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. A grade of "C" or higher is required in each program course.
Courses must be taken in sequence as outlined. Any deviation from this program must have prior approval of the program coordinator.
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Career Certificate: 3 Semesters
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Associate of Applied Science Degree: 4 Semesters
First Semester |
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| Course Number | Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CDT 1113 | Early Education Profession | 3 |
| CDT 1213 | Child Growth & Development | 3 |
| CDT 1313 | Creative Arts for Early Education | 3 |
| CDT 1343 | Child Health, Safety, and Nutrition | 3 |
| ENG 1113 | English Composition I | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 15 | |
Second Semester |
||
| Course Number | Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CDT 1223 | Intro to Early Education | 3 |
| CDT 1713 | Language, Literacy, and Phonics Development | 3 |
| CDT 2233 | Guiding Social & Emotional Development | 3 |
| CDT 2714 | Social Studies, Math, and Science for Early Education | 4 |
| SPT 1113 | Public Speaking I | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 16 | |
Third Semester |
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| Course Number | Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CDT 2413 | Developmental Difference in Early Education | 3 |
| CDT 2613 | Classroom Instruction and Practices | 3 |
| CDT 2513 | School, Family, and Community Engagement | 3 |
| CDT 2914 | Initial Practicum | 4 |
| – | Humanities/Fine Arts Elective | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 16 | |
| Exit Point for Career Certificate | 47 | |
Fourth Semester |
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| Course Number | Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CDT 2944 | Advanced Practicum | 4 |
| CDT 2813 | Professional Practices in Early Education | 3 |
| – | College Algebra/Science with Lab Elective | 3/4 |
| PSY 1513 |
General Psychology (Or an approved Behavioral/Social Elective) |
3 |
| Semester Hours | 16/17 | |
| Exit Point for AAS Degree | 63/64 | |
For more information: Michelle Thompson, Program Coordinator
michelle.thompson@meridiancc.edu
601.553.3484


