Early Childhood Development & Child Care
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Early Childhood Development & Child Care
Early Childhood Development A.A.S. Degree
The Early Childhood Development A.A.S. program teaches understanding of child development and behavior, knowledge of developmentally approved practices and materials, familiarity with materials, health, safety and nutrition, and familiarity with appropriate guidance techniques. Program courses fulfill the educational requirements for lead teacher in infant/toddler, preschool, school age and director, and meet the Maryland child care credential and state requirements.
This program can be completed online with the exception of the internship which has to be completed in person.
This program prepares students to work in child care centers, Head Start programs, nursery schools, and as self-employed child care providers or nannies. Classes are offered during the day, evening, online and hybrid. Some courses are offered in 7 week sessions. Students can complete the program completely online with exception of Internship which if approved can be completed at the student's job in early childhood.
Internship Program
Internships help students integrate what is taught in school with what is required in the workplace. Students take internships to develop knowledge and skills valued by employers. At FCC, students in certain programs are eligible to receive credit for internships.
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A drug screening and/or criminal background check is often required to obtain and maintain employment in this career field. Individuals whose criminal histories may interfere with their ability to secure employment should discuss any questions with FCC faculty.
Early Childhood Development Certificate
The Early Childhood Development Certificate program prepares students to work in child care centers, Head Start programs, nursery schools, and as self-employed child care providers or nannies by offering specialized courses in early childhood. It also provides core early childhood courses to professionals who are currently working in the early childhood field. Program courses fulfill the educational requirements for lead teacher in infant/toddler, preschool, school age and director, and meet the Maryland child care credential and state requirements.
Classes are offered during the day, evening, online and hybrid. Some courses are offered in 7 week sessions. Students can complete the program completely online with exception of Internship which if approved can be completed at the student's job in early childhood.
A drug screening and/or criminal background check is often required to obtain and maintain employment in this career field. Individuals whose criminal histories may interfere with their ability to secure employment should discuss any questions with FCC faculty.
Internship Program
Internships help students integrate what is taught in school with what is required in the workplace. Students take internships to develop knowledge and skills valued by employers. At FCC, students in certain programs are eligible to receive credit for internships.
Learn More
Gainful Employment - Early Childhood Development
Important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program.
Child Care Preschool and School Age Teacher Training Certificate
The Child Care Preschool and School Age Teacher Training Certificate program prepares students to enter the workforce in early childhood development. The certificate targets four courses that are required to meet the educational requirements of the Maryland State Department of Education Office of Child Care. The certificate highlights the following positions: child care teacher of preschools, infant/toddler classrooms, and school age (before and after school programs).
A drug screening and/or criminal background check is often required to obtain and maintain employment in this career field. Individuals whose criminal histories may interfere with their ability to secure employment should discuss any questions with FCC faculty.
*To view curriculum requirements for all previous catalog years and pathways for previous catalog years from 2021-2022 forward, please see previous catalog versions. If there are Pathways for years prior to 2021-2022, they will be listed by clicking the Archived Pathway button.
Child Care Preschool Teacher Letter of Recognition
The Child Care Preschool Teacher Letter of Recognition meets the educational requirements of the Maryland State Department of Education Office of Child Care for the position of child care preschool teacher. In this position, students can teach preschool children in various settings.
A drug screening and/or criminal background check is often required to obtain and maintain employment in this career field. Individuals whose criminal histories may interfere with their ability to secure employment should discuss any questions with FCC faculty.
*To view curriculum requirements for all previous catalog years and pathways for previous catalog years from 2021-2022 forward, please see previous catalog versions. If there are Pathways for years prior to 2021-2022, they will be listed by clicking the Archived Pathway button.
Frederick County Public School students are eligible to receive free tuition and fees through
Dual Enrollment at FCC for some courses taken during Fall or Spring semesters. FCPS students participating in dual enrollment may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. Students should speak with their high school counselor first if they plan to enroll in FCC courses or programs.
For related non-credit Continuing Education & Workforce Development (CEWD) programs, see
Child Care Career Preparation.
Please note that these courses are not affiliated with FCC credit or certificate programs. While CEWD courses do not provide academic credits, participants experience affordable, flexible, and rewarding programs. Select CEWD courses offer industry-recognized training for licensure and career certification at the state and national level.
To find more information about how credits may transfer from Frederick Community College to a state four-year institution visit
ARTSYS or consult a College advisor.
Childcare Workers
$30,370.00/yr • -1%*
Preschool and Childcare Center Directors
$54,290.00/yr • -2%*
Preschool Teachers
$37,130.00/yr • +4%*