Education Department

Central Carolina Community College’s Education Programs provide top-quality training for careers in the field of education. These rewarding careers are for those who enjoy working with others, while nurturing, guiding, and modeling the future of young children and teens.

Students learn about working with children and families from diverse backgrounds, child development, guidance, and teaching in inclusive environments. Courses in technology, math, science, language and literacy for children are taught. The program is enriched by hands-on internship experiences in the classroom.

At CCCC, you will enjoy small classes, up-to-date materials, and qualified instructors who care about your success. Instructors have earned master's degrees as well as field experience and have varied teaching backgrounds. They each have a strong commitment and dedication to preparing teachers.

There are many educational options available for people enrolling in education programs. We offer 4 associate degree tracks that lead to transferring onto a 4-year institute to complete your bachelor degree. We offer an associate degree for students who plan to enter the work force. All of the associate degrees are designed to be completed in two years. A shorter diploma and several certificate programs are also available.

In North Carolina, a child care center teacher is required to take EDU 119: Intro to Early Childhood. Once students complete this course they will apply for their credentials through the NC DCDEE (North Carolina Division of Child Development & Early Education). This credential is awarded by the state, not the college.

Learn more about this noble calling. Explore a career in education. Please contact us at (919) 718-7260 with any questions about our programs.

Early Childhood Associate - Career Track

Students can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education-Career in only two years. This track does not transfer to the 4-year institution.

Early Childhood Associate - Licensure Track

Students can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education-Licensure in only two years. This track allows students to complete 2 years at the community college and 2 years at the university. This degree is for students who wish to pursue a 4-year degree and earn their BK (Birth through Kindergarten) Teaching license.

Early Childhood Associate - Non-Licensure Track

Students can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education-Non-Licensure in only two years. This track allows students to complete 2 years at the community college and 2 years at the university. This degree is for students who wish to pursue a 4-year degree in the field of child development but who do not intend to earn their BK Teaching license.

Associate in Science - Teacher Preparation

Students can earn an Associate of Science - Teacher Preparation degree in only two years, and then transfer to a 4-year institution and enter as a junior. This degree allows students who wish to pursue a teaching degree in the K-12 field of education. This degree focuses more on math and science course work.

Associate in Arts - Teacher Preparation

Students can earn an Associate of Arts- Teacher Preparation degree in only two years, and then transfer to a 4-year institution and enter as a junior. This degree allows students who wish to pursue a teaching degree in the K-12 field of education. This degree focuses preparation on English, humanities, history, social sciences and language and prepares students to study to teach these areas upon transfer.

Early Childhood Diploma

The Early Childhood Diploma prepares individuals to work as assistants in childcare centers, after-school programs and a variety of other learning environments. Credits earned may be transferred toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Associate.

Early Childhood Administration Certificate

This curriculum prepares individuals pursuing administrating roles in diverse child care settings to effectively work with children, families and teachers. This certificate meets the state requirements to earn your Administration credential to become a director/owner or assistant director in a licensed child care center. Credits earned may be transferred toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Associate.

Once students complete these courses they will apply for their administration credential through the NC DCDEE (North Carolina Division of Child Development & Early Education). This credential is awarded by the state, not the college.

Family Home & Early Childcare Certificate

This curriculum prepares individuals entering the field of early childhood education as well as those already employed in the field who desire to improve their job knowledge and skills. Credits earned in this program may be transferred toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Associate.

Infant/Toddler Care Certificate

The curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy to three years of age in diverse learning environments. Credits earned in this program may be transferred toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Associate.

Preschool Certificate

This curriculum prepares individuals to work with preschool aged children (3-5) in diverse learning environments. Credits earned in this program may be transferred toward an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Associate.