Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education

At Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, Florida, choose from three different programs of study in Early Childhood Education.  Each program is unique and designed with a specific purpose to meet your needs.

Research shows that a high quality education for children before they turn five provides them with significant lifetime benefits.  A rewarding career in Early Childhood Education enriches not only the child, but also the entire community.

The National Education Association

FCCPC - Florida Child Care Professional Credential

This is an 12-credit-hour program which provides the knowledge base and professional skills necessary for teachers of children from birth to age five in early education and care programs.

The Florida Department of Children and Families authorizes and oversees all FCCPC programs. To enroll in the FCCPC program, you must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, and be able to obtain a background clearance by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

FCCPC is offered as an 8-week semester format, based on weekly learning modules.  Note that EEC1319 includes face-to-face teaching observation withing a daycare setting 

AS - Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education

This is a 60-credit-hour program, designed as a two-year degree. The AS program prepares the student for employment in various areas of child care and development. To enroll in this program you must be able to obtain a background clearance by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

AA -  Associate in Arts in Early Childhood Education

This is a 60-credit-hour program, designed as a transfer degree to a four-year university. This transfer track prepares the student for a career of teaching children aged birth to eight years. As a teacher, you'll be able to shape future generations by providing high quality learning opportunities. To enroll in this program you must be able to obtain a background clearance by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Gulf Coast social Sciences Division likewise offers a Director’s Credential Class - EEC 2523: Leadership & Management of Child Care Programs

This is a 3-credit-hour class that will meet DCF’s college course requirement toward the director’s credential.  Students should see the course syllabus for specific requirements established by DCF.