
Your path to a career in Early Childhood Education starts here! Whether you're new to the field or already working in early care and education, SWAGºÏ¼¯Ìýoffers programs designed to meet you where you are — and take you where you want to go.Ìý
Program Highlights
Start Early with High School Options
High school students can begin their career journey through our Early College program, earning college credit and gaining valuable skills before graduation.
Earn Credit for What You Already Know
Already have your Child Development Associate (CDA)? Through our Credit for Prior Learning option, you may be eligible to convert your certification into college credit—saving time and money.
100% Online Format
Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. Our fully online courses are perfect for working professionals or busy students who need flexibility.
Accelerated Course Options
Complete courses in just 8 weeks—move faster toward your goals without compromising on quality.
SWAGºÏ¼¯'s Early Childhood Education Program
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Passionate, Experienced FacultyÌý— Learn from dedicated instructors who bring both academic expertise and real-world classroom experience to every course.
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Modern, Career-Ready CurriculumÌý— Our cutting-edge program prepares you to meet the evolving needs of today’s early childhood field, with practical tools and a strong educational foundation.
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Hands-On, Purposeful LearningÌý— Engage in a play-based, interactive approach that brings theory to life. Each day offers new opportunities to explore, experiment, and grow alongside young learners.
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Aligned with Kansas StandardsÌý— SWAGºÏ¼¯â€™s curriculum is fully embedded with the State of Kansas Early Learning Standards, so you're always learning what matters most.
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Whole-Student SupportÌý— We integrate self-care practices and forward-thinking strategies into coursework, helping you balance your own growth with your professional development.
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High-Quality Online LearningÌý—ÌýAccess flexible, fully online classes led by experienced and supportive faculty without sacrificing quality or connection.
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Technology-Enhanced InstructionÌý—ÌýGet hands-on experience with modern teaching tools, including interactive software, DVDs, iPods, and other classroom technologies.
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Practical ExperienceÌý—ÌýBuild confidence and skills through on-site practicums and internships, where you’ll observe and engage with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in real early learning environments.
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Resource-Rich EnvironmentÌý— All students have access to a fully equipped Teacher Resource Room, filled with tools, materials, and inspiration for classroom success.
Certificate in Child Development
- Complete in as little as 1 year
- Prepares you for immediate work in early childhood settings
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood
- Finish in just 5 semesters
- Gain advanced skills for leadership and specialized roles in early care settings
Job possibilities with two-year degree:
Paraprofessional in special education or Title 1 schools, professional nanny, family childcare provider, infant/toddler teacher, preschool teacher, Parents As Teacher educator, Head Start, after school program director, vacation or cruise ship children’s activity director, child care director
Associate of Science (AS) in General Studies – Early Childhood Emphasis
- Designed for students planning to transfer to a bachelor’s degree
- Build a strong foundation with transferable general education and early childhood credits
Job possibilities with four-year degree:
- Early Childhood Unified teacher (Birth to 8 years regular or special education)
- Head Start Teacher
- Child Care Director
- Occupational Therapy, Play Therapy
- Speech PathologistÌý
- Autism SpecialistÌý
- Infant/Toddler or preschool special education teacher
Learn. Play. Teach. Grow.
If you’re ready to spark curiosity, nurture development, and become a confident early childhood educator—SWAGºÏ¼¯ is ready for you.Ìý
Early Childhood Resources
Flexible Learning OptionsÌý—ÌýChoose from face-to-face or 100% online courses designed to fit around your work and life schedule.
Standards-Aligned CurriculumÌý— Coursework is embedded with the State of Kansas Early Learning Standards, ensuring you're prepared to meet professional expectations from day one.
Transfer-Ready PathwaysÌý— Take advantage of transfer agreements with multiple universities, making it easy to continue your education toward a bachelor’s degree.
Hands-On ExperienceÌý— Qualified students can gain valuable real-world skills through practicum and internship opportunities in licensed early childhood settings.
Certificates
Ìý(24 hours)
AssociateÌýin Applied Science (64 hour two-year non-transfer degree)Ìý
Ìý(degree guide)
AssociateÌýin ScienceÌý
If you plan to attend SWAGºÏ¼¯ and then transfer to a four-year school, please consult with your advisor regarding classes to take at SWAGºÏ¼¯ to help you in a smooth transition to your four-year transfer school.Ìý Students should also contact the college/university to where they are transferring concerning degree requirements within the appropriate department or college.
Ìý(degree guide)
View the ofÌýCurriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Check out the Course SearchÌýfor a full listing of courses available.
College to UniversityÌý
SWAGºÏ¼¯ has agreements with four year colleges that specifically direct your studies in certain programs for seamless transition from SWAGºÏ¼¯'s Early Childhood Education ProgramÌýto the transfer school.Ìý Students should utilize the expertise of academic advisors on campus, as well as information gained by contacting colleges and universities concerning degree requirements within the appropriate departments or colleges
Fort Hays State University
Kansas State University
- Job prospects: There is a constant demand for highly qualified early childhood professionals. Qualified candidates who are interested in this line of work should gain employment easily.
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