JWCC students interacting with young children

Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education Programs

Choose which program works best for your path!

Associate of Arts (AA) | Associate of Applied Science

Early Childhood Education Associate of Arts

The Associate in Arts Degree (Transfer) (AA) in Education degree is designed to meet the requirements for the first two years of a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Graduates can obtain their teaching license and pursue positions in Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School (Secondary), and Special Education. Graduates can also obtain positions as Education Coordinators, Home Visitors, and Developmental Specialists.
Students who seek immediate entry into the public school system qualify for the Paraprofessional (Teacher Aide) position.

Children creating art with markers and paint

Career Opportunities

  • Teacher
  • Child Care Administrator/Director
  • Nanny
  • EC Aide
  • Preschool Instructor
  • Licensed Day Care Provider
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Suggested Pathway for Early Childhood Education (AA)
Do not use this degree plan as a substitute for an advisor. Always meet with an advisor to discuss your specific needs for completing the program before signing up for classes each semester.
First Semester Details
ECE 102 Foundations of Early Childhood Education Details 3
An introduction to early childhood education philosophies and methods. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of planning developmentally appropriate interactions and techniques. Topics of study include age-appropriate methodology, guiding in today’s changing world.
Prerequisites: (none)
Various MUS 102 / ART 115 / DRA 103 Details 3
Choose MUS 102, ART 115, or DRA 103.
MUS 102 Music Appreciation Details 3
A non technical course designed for the non music major, to develop within the listener an appreciation for music. Includes brief historical background of music and the leading composers of various periods. IAI: F1 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
ART 115 Art Appreciation Details 3
Designed to expose/cultivate an awareness of art in our culture with some emphasis on contemporary times. IAI: F2 900
Prerequisites: (none)
DRA 103 Introduction to Theater Details 3
The broad concepts of the aesthetics and form of drama as evidenced in the living theater. Includes reading of plays and the study of dramaturgy with general discussion of elements of the play and theater. IAI: F1 907.
Prerequisites: (none)
ENG 101 Rhetoric and Composition I Details 3
An introductory course in writing at the college level with attention to skills needed at each stage of the writing process. Placement in ENG 101 presupposes competence in English grammar, mechanics, punctuation, and spelling. IAI: C1 900.
Prerequisites: ENG 099 with a grade of "C" or above or appropriate placement score
FYE 101 Blazing Your Trail Details 1
Directed to new students, this course provides a supportive transition to the culture of higher education. Course objectives aim at preparing students for the college experience by acquiring effective learning techniques and by becoming aware of available college resources for academic and personal growth. This course also develops students' abilities, which will assist them with the complexities of college life.
Prerequisites: (none)
HIS 121 U.S. History I Details 3
History of the United States from the early foundation of the republic to 1877. IAI: S2 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
Second Semester Details
ENG 102 Rhetoric and Composition II Details 3
A continuation of ENG 101; provides further practice in writing at the college level for a variety of purposes and audiences, using both fixed and open or developing forms. Research paper required. IAI: C1 901R
Prerequisites: Completion of ENG 101 with a grade of "C" or above
BIO 101 General Biology Details 4
An introductory biology course that covers a breadth of biological concepts including biochemical pathways, molecular and cellular biology, the structure and function of organisms, genetics and heredity, evolution, ecology, and the importance of life science to society. In the laboratory setting, emphasis will be placed on utilizing the scientific process to arrive at evidence-based conclusions. 3 lecture hours, 2 lab hours; IAI: L1 900L.
Prerequisites: MAT 010 with a grade of "C" or above within two semesters, or appropriate placement test score, or consent of department. Consent of JWCC Natural Sciences Department Chair is dependent upon the requesting student successfully passing an assessment (placement) exam for the particular prerequisite course. A passing BIO 101 placement exam score is 78 percent or above to opt out of the BIO 101 requirement. Otherwise, the student requesting acceptance into a course without completion of prerequisites must provide substantiated documentation of equivalent transfer credit to enroll in the course.
Various ECE 104 / EDU 293 / HUM Elective Details 3
ECE 104 (recommended for students transferring to SIUE), EDU 293, or any HUM elective.
ECE 104 Child Growth and Development Details 3
A foundation course in theory and principles of the developmental continuum, including an in-depth study of physical, social/emotional, cognitive, language, and aesthetic development; an examination of current research and major developmental theories; an exploration of child development within a socio-cultural context, such as gender, family, race, ethnicity, language, ability, socio-economics, religion, and society; an emphasis on the implications for early childhood professional practice. IAI: ECE 912
Prerequisites: (none)
EDU 293 Children's Literature Details 3
This course introduces students to the significant works, authors and trends in literature written for children as well as the role that literature plays in teaching. Emphasis will be placed on identifying various literary genres and showing future teachers the best strategies for using this information in the classroom.
Prerequisites: (none)
Various HUM Electives Details 3
All courses with prefix HUM.
HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities Details 3
Study of human values, self-perceptions, and aspirations expressed in drama, film, music, literature, painting, sculpture, and architecture with an emphasis on history, techniques, meaning, and evaluation of individual works. IAI: HF 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
HUM 121 Sex and Gender in the Humanities Details 3
Interdisciplinary study of art, music, literature, history, and philosophy reflecting the cultural identity of sex, gender, and sexuality. IAI: HF907D
Prerequisites: (none)
HUM 195 Special Topics in Humanities Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in humanities not covered in other courses. Topics will vary at discretion of the instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated three times with different topics. Topic to be listed on student's permanent academic record.
Prerequisites: Consent of department
HUM 200 The Art of Being Human Details 3
An interdisciplinary course that incorporates aspects of Western European, Far Eastern and Third World art, music, philosophy, religion, drama, and literature. The humanities are treated as a process leading to the enrichment of human experience. IAI: HF 901.
Prerequisites: (none)
HUM 295 Advanced Special Topics in Humanities Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in humanities not covered in other courses. Topics will vary at discretion of the instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated with different topics to maximum of four credit hours. Topic to be listed on student's permanent academic record.
Prerequisites: Consent of department
Various MAT 111 / ECO 101 Details 3
MAT 111 (recommended for students transferring to SIUE) or ECO 101.
MAT 111 Math for Elementary Teachers II Details 3
This course meets the requirements for students pursuing a degree in elementary and/or special education. Topics include probability and statistics; odds and expected value; permutations and combinations; measures of central tendency and variation; statistical graphs; geometry of angles, lines, and polygons; congruence and similarity; and length, area, volume, mass, and temperature calculations in both the English and metric systems. This course meets IAI only when both 110 and MAT 111 are taken. IAI: M1 903.
Prerequisites: MAT 020 with a grade of "C" or above within two semesters, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
ECO 101 Principles of Macroeconomics Details 3
Introduction to the major areas of modern economic theory and public policy, including fiscal policy, international trade and finance, economic growth and development, and contemporary macro-economic problems. IAI: S3 901.
Prerequisites: (none)
Third Semester Details
CMN 101 Introduction to Speech I Details 3
An introduction to the basic principles of oral communication as applied to public speaking. The course emphasizes the mastery of oral communication skills through a variety of exercises in which the student speaks before the group. Involves analysis of such topics as preparation, organization, and delivery. IAI: C2 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology Details 3
This course is an introduction to sociology as a way of understanding the world and how it applies to everyday life. Major theoretical perspectives and concepts are presented including socialization, culture, the social construction of knowledge, social control and deviance, inequality, race and ethnic relations, poverty, and the sociological imagination. IAI: S7 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
PSC 101 American Government Details 3
Fundamentals of federal, state and local governments with emphasis on national government, including the Constitution of the United States. IAI: S5 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
SCI 100 Environmental Geology Details 4
An introductory study of forces that continually shape the surface of the earth, including examination of geological formation processes and our impact on the environment. 3 lecture hours, 2 lab hours. IAI: P1 905L.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 124 Health & Safety for Young Children Details 3
Introduction to the health, safety, and nutritional needs of young children. Topics include eating habits, menu planning, safe food storage and handling, recognizing common health concerns, creating a safe environment, and principles of child first aid and CPR for infants and children.
Prerequisites: (none)
Fourth Semester Details
ENG 231 American Literature I Details 3
Major American writers, 1620-1865. IAI: H3 914.
Prerequisites: ENG 101 or consent of department
ECE 135 Guidance of the Young Child Details 3
This course will examine research and theory related to social and emotional development in young children. Students will explore teaching methods with an emphasis on positive guidance, family engagement, cultural competence and designing appropriate environments. This course requires three 1½ hour observations at a licensed childcare center or kindergarten classroom.
Prerequisites: (none)
EDU 205 Educating Exceptional Children Details 3
This survey course provides an overview of educational and evidence-based strategies supporting children with exceptional cognitive, social, physical, and emotional needs. Identification, intervention strategies, methods, and programs to meet the needs of children are presented. Study of applicable federal and state laws and requirements conducted, including: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Individualized Family Service Plan, Individualized Education Programs, and inclusive programming. Fulfills requirements of School Code 25.25. IAI: ECE 913
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 171 Child, Family and Community Details 3
This course focuses on the diverse needs of the child within the context of family, school, and community. The course will examine the interplay of diverse cultures, lifestyles, abilities, language, and communication with the role of the early childhood environment and other community institutions. Students will gain an understanding of their professional role in supporting evidence-based practices that strengthen respectful, collaborative family/child partnerships through effective use of community and family resources. IAI: ECE 915
Prerequisites: (none)
EDU 290 Field Experience in Education Details 1
Documented field experience involving observation and interaction with children and teachers in a classroom setting to be determined by the JWCC supervising instructor. Dual supervision is provided by JWCC instructors and the partnering school's teachers. 0 lecture, 2 lab hours.
Prerequisites: (none)
NOTE: Only students who do not need additional coursework and who take the number of credits or courses as listed each semester can complete the program in the time given. Others will take longer to complete. Course descriptions may contain IAI (Illinois Articulation Initiative) codes containing information for students transferring their credits to another Illinois higher learning institution. See itransfer.org or the JWCC course catalog for more information on IAI.

Early Childhood Education Associate of Applied Science

The Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Early Childhood Education degree is designed to prepare students for careers as childcare lead teachers, home visitors, childcare directors, or public-school teacher aides. This degree can also fulfill the requirements for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at colleges and universities within the ECACE Consortium, allowing students to work towards early childhood teacher licensure for public schools. Additionally, this program includes the following embedded Gateways credentials: Early Childhood Education Level 4, Infant-Toddler Level 4, and Illinois Director Level 1.

Suggested Pathway for Early Childhood Education (AAS)
Do not use this degree plan as a substitute for an advisor. Always meet with an advisor to discuss your specific needs for completing the program before signing up for classes each semester.
First Semester Details
ECE 102 Foundations of Early Childhood Education Details 3
An introduction to early childhood education philosophies and methods. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of planning developmentally appropriate interactions and techniques. Topics of study include age-appropriate methodology, guiding in today’s changing world.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 124 Health & Safety for Young Children Details 3
Introduction to the health, safety, and nutritional needs of young children. Topics include eating habits, menu planning, safe food storage and handling, recognizing common health concerns, creating a safe environment, and principles of child first aid and CPR for infants and children.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 104 Child Growth and Development Details 3
A foundation course in theory and principles of the developmental continuum, including an in-depth study of physical, social/emotional, cognitive, language, and aesthetic development; an examination of current research and major developmental theories; an exploration of child development within a socio-cultural context, such as gender, family, race, ethnicity, language, ability, socio-economics, religion, and society; an emphasis on the implications for early childhood professional practice. IAI: ECE 912
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 150 Caring for Infants and Toddlers Details 3
Study of the specialized needs of infants and toddlers, including the development of routines and environments that promote effective cognitive, motor and language development. Emphasis is placed on providing appropriate care, stimulating environments, and assessing the needs of infants and toddlers. Cultural and social diversity and the creation of partnerships with families and childcare facilities are integrated throughout the course.
Prerequisites: (none)
ENG 101 Rhetoric and Composition I Details 3
An introductory course in writing at the college level with attention to skills needed at each stage of the writing process. Placement in ENG 101 presupposes competence in English grammar, mechanics, punctuation, and spelling. IAI: C1 900.
Prerequisites: ENG 099 with a grade of "C" or above or appropriate placement score
FYE 101 Blazing Your Trail Details 1
Directed to new students, this course provides a supportive transition to the culture of higher education. Course objectives aim at preparing students for the college experience by acquiring effective learning techniques and by becoming aware of available college resources for academic and personal growth. This course also develops students' abilities, which will assist them with the complexities of college life.
Prerequisites: (none)
Second Semester Details
CMN 101 Introduction to Speech I Details 3
An introduction to the basic principles of oral communication as applied to public speaking. The course emphasizes the mastery of oral communication skills through a variety of exercises in which the student speaks before the group. Involves analysis of such topics as preparation, organization, and delivery. IAI: C2 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 135 Guidance of the Young Child Details 3
This course will examine research and theory related to social and emotional development in young children. Students will explore teaching methods with an emphasis on positive guidance, family engagement, cultural competence and designing appropriate environments. This course requires three 1½ hour observations at a licensed childcare center or kindergarten classroom.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 171 Child, Family and Community Details 3
This course focuses on the diverse needs of the child within the context of family, school, and community. The course will examine the interplay of diverse cultures, lifestyles, abilities, language, and communication with the role of the early childhood environment and other community institutions. Students will gain an understanding of their professional role in supporting evidence-based practices that strengthen respectful, collaborative family/child partnerships through effective use of community and family resources. IAI: ECE 915
Prerequisites: (none)
Various ECE 245 / ECE 265 Details 3
ECE 245 or ECE 265
ECE 245 STEM in Early Childhood Details 3
This course focuses on the importance of math and science for early childhood and early elementary education programs. Emphasis will be on the techniques that provide engaging math and science experiences, while providing an organized, sequential approach to creating a developmentally appropriate math.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 265 Infant and Toddler Curriculum Details 3
Study of the skills necessary to provide high-quality care for infants and toddlers n the educational setting. Current theories, research, and standards for teacher preparation will be measured. Appropriate caregiving and educational techniques, along with curriculum methods for groups of young children will be introduced.
Prerequisites: (none)
Various SOC / PSY Elective Details 3
Any course with SOC or PSY prefix.
Various SOC Electives Details 3
All courses with SOC prefix.
SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology Details 3
This course is an introduction to sociology as a way of understanding the world and how it applies to everyday life. Major theoretical perspectives and concepts are presented including socialization, culture, the social construction of knowledge, social control and deviance, inequality, race and ethnic relations, poverty, and the sociological imagination. IAI: S7 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 111 Social Problems Details 3
This course describes social problems facing the United States today and identifies how these problems impact and are impacted by our institutions and culture. Students will learn how to interpret social problems by looking at them through the lens of sociological theory. The course examines the causes of various social problems, the effects of these problems on society and possible remedies or policies. IAI: S7 901.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 195 Special Topics in Social Science Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in social science not covered in other courses. Topics will vary with needs, interests, and goals of the student and instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated three times with different topics. Topics to be listed on student's permanent academic record.
Prerequisites: Consent of department
SOC 212 Human Sexuality Details 3
This class will examine the social psychological and sociological aspects of human sexuality. Theories, perspectives, and data from the scientific field of sexuality will be discussed. The major goal is for students to gain a greater understanding of their own bodies and arousal, sexual orientation and sexual thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors, which will benefit them in their lives and decision making. (Same as PSY 212)
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 222 Sociology of Diversity Details 3
This course will focus on the social construction of race and its impact on racial identities and relations. The historical structural foundations of racial inequality in contemporary society will be addressed as well as group relations of other minority groups, including religious and sexual minorities. Students will explore the social implications of difference with particular reference to issues of race, ethnicity, religion, class and gender. Key components of cross-cultural theories, methods and research as they relate to living and working in a multicultural society will also be examined. IAI: S7 903D.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 224 Marriage and the Family Details 3
The social context of marriage and family patterns in the current American society; nature, purpose and obligations of marriage and family. IAI: S7 902.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 243 Introduction to Social Work Details 3
Introduction to basic methodologies of social work intervention in problem situations at individual, group and community levels.
Prerequisites: (none)
SOC 295 Advanced Special Topics in Social Science Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in social science not covered in other courses. Topics will vary at discretion of the instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated with different topics to maximum of four credit hours. Topics to be listed on student's permanent academic record.
Prerequisites: Consent of department
Various PSY Electives Details 3
All courses with PSY prefix.
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology Details 3
Basic introduction to the major areas of psychology--the study of behavior and the mind. Areas of emphasis include human development, personality theory, learning, thinking, stress and motivation, mental illnesses, and biological and social aspects of behavior. Course will combine research with real life application throughout. IAI: S6 900.
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 108 Applied Psychology Details 3
Practical applications of the psychological principles that lead to learning efficiency, social adjustment, motivation, interpersonal skills, and success-oriented attitudes
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 123 Career Management Details 1
Strategy and skills for developing a career management program, particularly self-assessment, decision making, life planning, and communication skills, for the individual entering or reentering the job market, moving within occupations, or changing occupations.
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 145 Human Relations in the Workplace Details 3
Introduction to the application of guidelines for the field of human relationships in the workplace. The course will examine the information and guidelines to promote effective functioning in the workplace. Topics covered will include diversity in the workplace, groups and organizations, ethics, productivity, teamwork communication, and motivation. Also emphasized will be workplace attitudes for job satisfaction, interpersonal relations, dealing with stress and discrimination, and career choice planning.
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 195 Special Topics in Psychology Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in psychology not covered in other courses. Topics will vary at discretion of the instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated with different topics to maximum of four credit hours. Topics to be listed on student's permanent academic record.
Prerequisites: Consent of department
PSY 201 Educational Psychology Details 3
A study of the application of the principles of psychology to the field of education and a review of educational research in the areas of motivation, intelligence, measurement, evaluation, the learning process, learning styles, and the impact of culture in education. Observational experiences may be included.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 202 Child Psychology Details 3
A psychological examination of human development from conception through adolescence. Topics include interaction of diverse influences of biological factors, individual characteristics, and the environment in relation to human growth and development. IAI: S6 903.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 203 Adolescent Psychology Details 3
This course provides a detailed examination of the developmental period of adolescence, including cognitive, social, personality and psychosocial developmental milestones. Physical maturation and the emergence of new social references are discussed. IAI: S6 904.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 205 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging Details 3
Introduction to the changes that occur from early adulthood through the end of the lifespan. Topics include: physical and neurological changes that occur throughout adulthood; career choice and development; mate selection and marriage; conventional and nonconventional families; theories of adult personality development; mid- and late-life transitions; mental health in adulthood; and dying, death and bereavement.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 212 Human Sexuality Details 3
This class will examine the social psychological and sociological aspects of human sexuality. Theories, perspectives and data from the scientific field of sexuality will be discussed. The major goal is for students to gain a greater understanding or their own bodies and arousal, sexual orientation and sexual thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors, which will benefit them in their lives and decision making. (Same as SOC 212)
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 221 Social Psychology Details 3
A study of the impact of social factors on individual and group behavior, including attitudes, behavior, and motivation. (Same as SOC 221.) IAI: S8 900.
Prerequisites: PSY 101 or SOC 101
PSY 224 Sport Psychology Details 3
This course will introduce students to research concepts and theories relating to sport psychology. The content will include an overview of the history and development of sport psychology and expose students to the foundational concepts of the field. The course material will also include an overview of psychological assessment, mental skills training, performance enhancement, injury recovery, and participation satisfaction. The course will examine how this knowledge can be applied to a wide range of settings and participants, such as coaches, parents and athletes, while addressing varying levels of ability (from recreational to elite sports participation). (Same as HPR 224)
Prerequisites: (none)
PSY 233 Developmental Psychology Details 3
A study of human development from conception across the life span to death. Attention will be given to physical, cognitive, emotional and social aspects of development. IAI: S6 902.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 238 Abnormal Psychology Details 3
A study of mental illness including the causes, characteristics, progression and treatment of mental illness. IAI: PSY 905.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 250 Psychology of Personality Details 3
A study of the major theories, schools, and systems of psychology relating to the growth and structure of individual human personality.
Prerequisites: PSY 101
PSY 295 Advanced Special Topics in Psychology Details 1-4 (Varies)
Deals with current topics in psychology not covered in other courses. Topics will vary at discretion of the instructor. No topic will be offered more than twice within three years. May be repeated with different topics to maximum of four credit hours. Topics to be listed on student's permanent academic record
Prerequisites: Consent of department
Third Semester Details
EDU 205 Educating Exceptional Children Details 3
This survey course provides an overview of educational and evidence-based strategies supporting children with exceptional cognitive, social, physical, and emotional needs. Identification, intervention strategies, methods, and programs to meet the needs of children are presented. Study of applicable federal and state laws and requirements conducted, including: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Individualized Family Service Plan, Individualized Education Programs, and inclusive programming. Fulfills requirements of School Code 25.25. IAI: ECE 913
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 215 Observation & Assessment in EC Details 3
Students will learn the methods of authentic, alternative classroom-based assessment with young children. Opportunity given to gain knowledge and skills to observe, interpret and use information to respond to and support children’s learning and development. Typical and atypical children will be studied and evaluated. Child observation is required.
Prerequisites: EDU 102 or EDU 202 or consent of department
ECE 260 Curriculum for Early Childhood Programs Details 3
Philosophy, principles, and methods for planning and implementing an educationally and developmentally age-appropriate program for young children from infancy through eight years of age. Students will develop effective approaches to promote learning and assessment, family and community relationships, and creative interdisciplinary environments.
Prerequisites: EDU 102 or EDU 202 or consent of department
ECE 287 Infant-Toddler Seminar Details 1
This seminar explores infant/toddler development, focusing on the theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and practical applications relevant to educators, caregivers, and professionals working with infants and toddlers. Participants will explore key topics such as cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants will critically analyze current research findings, examine best practices in infant/toddler education and care, and reflect on their own beliefs and practices. Special attention will be given to understanding diverse perspectives, addressing individual differences, and fostering inclusive environments that support the holistic development of every child. By the end of the seminar, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of infant/toddler development and be equipped with practical strategies to promote positive outcomes for infants and toddlers in various settings.
Prerequisites: Completion or co-enrollment in all required early childhood education courses or consent of the department. Co-enrollment in EDU 288 Infant-Toddler Practicum.
ECE 288 Infant-Toddler Practicum Details 1
This course is an integration of knowledge gained in the infant toddler curriculum through supervised practical experience in the field of child care. Students are expected to demonstrate competency in a broad range of duties associated with the occupations represented by the cooperating programs. Upon successful completion of this class, students will gain a solid range of experience needed to earn credentials needed for professional development of skills in the early childhood field.
Prerequisites: Completion or co-enrollment in all required early childhood education courses or consent of the department. Co-enrollment in EDU 287 Infant-Toddler Seminar.
Various MAT Gen. Ed. Requirements (AAS) Details 3
AAS degree-seeking students must select at least one course from the listed classes.
MAT 100 Technical Mathematics Details 3
A course designed to cover mathematical processes and problems that relate to career, technical and workforce applications. Specific topics include fractions; decimals, ratio, proportion and percentage; measurements; and area and volume.
Prerequisites: (none)
MAT 109 Elementary Statistics Details 3
A study of the collection and interpretation of statistical data. Specific topics include description of sample data, probability, probability distributions, sampling, estimation, testing hypotheses, correlation, and regression. IAI: M1 902.
Prerequisites: MAT 020 with a grade of "C" or above within two semesters, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
MAT 113 College Algebra Details 3
This course is intended for students who plan to continue their college mathematics education or to meet college transfer requirements. Topics include advanced factoring of higher order polynomials; solving quadratic inequalities; advanced topics in relations, functions and their graphs; zeroes and graphs of polynomial and rational functions; and exponential and logarithmic functions.
Prerequisites: MAT 020 with a grade of "C" or above within two semesters, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
MAT 114 Trigonometry Details 3
This course is intended for students who plan to continue their college mathematics education or to meet college transfer requirements. It is the study and analysis of the sine, cosine, tangent, secant, cosecant, and cotangent function; show these functions are used to solve many types of problems involving the sides and angles of triangles; and how these functions are used to solve many types of problems involving cyclic patterns, some that vary with time. Topics include definitions, properties and manipulation of trigonometric functions; applications of trigonometric functions; analytic trigonometry; trigonometric form of complex numbers; and polar coordinates, equations and graphs.
Prerequisites: MAT 020 with a grade of "C" or above within two semesters, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
MAT 220 Analytic Geometry and Calculus I Details 4
A course designed to introduce the concepts of derivative and integral to the student interested in pursuing degrees related to engineering, science or mathematics. Specific topics include functions and graphs; slopes and rates of change; limit theory and continuous functions; formal differentiation; application of differentiation; integration; and applications of integration. IAI: M1 900-1, MTH 901.
Prerequisites: MAT 113 and MAT 114 with grades of "C" or above within one academic year, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
MAT 234 Calculus for Social Scientists Details 4
A course designed to introduce the business and social science student to the concepts of derivative and integral. Applications of these concepts stress the use of calculus to solve business and social science problems. Specific topics include relations and functions; algebraic functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; derivatives; applications of derivatives; advanced derivative techniques; integrals; advanced integration techniques. IAI: M1 900B.
Prerequisites: MAT 113 with a grade of "C" or above within one academic year, appropriate placement score, or consent of department
Fourth Semester Details
ECE 251 Child Care Administration Details 3
This course introduces the student to the principles and practices of establishing and/or administering a child care program. The student will focus on administrative techniques in such areas as finances, purchasing, personnel management, client policies, regulatory agencies, and public relations.
Prerequisites: EDU 102 or consent of department
Various General Education Requirement Details 3
Any course that falls under John Wood Community College's list of approved General Education courses for communications, natural science, mathematics, humanities, or social & behavioral science may be taken. Students should always discuss with their advisor which general education course would be best for to them to take to best achieve their particular goals.
Prerequisites: Varies by course
ECE 250 Creative Arts & the Young Child Details 3
This course focuses on the importance of how music, creative movement, dramatic play and the arts stimulate early childhood play and learning. Emphasis is on understanding children's developmental stages and determining what are appropriate learning opportunities, interaction and environments.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 255 Language & Literacy in EC Details 3
Examine the purpose, scope, sequence, material, and methodology of teaching language and literacy in the early childhood setting. Address how children acquire any young children about language, literature, pre-reading, reading, and writing.
Prerequisites: (none)
ECE 297 Early Childhood Seminar Details 2
This seminar explores early childhood development, focusing on the theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and practical applications relevant to educators, caregivers, and professionals working with young children. Participants will explore key early childhood topics such as cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development. Through Interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants will critically analyze current research findings, examine best practices in early childhood education and care, and reflect on their own beliefs and practices. Special attention will be given to understanding diverse perspectives, addressing individual differences, and fostering Inclusive environments that support the holistic development of every child. By the end of the seminar, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of early childhood development and be equipped with practical strategies to promote positive outcomes for young children in various settings.
Prerequisites: Completion or co-enrollment in all required early childhood education courses or consent of the department. Co-enrollment in EDU 298 Early Childhood Practicum.
ECE 298 Early Childhood Education Practicum Details 2
This course is an integration of knowledge gained in the child care curriculum through supervised practical experience in the field of child care. Students are expected to demonstrate competency in a broad range of duties associated with the occupations represented by the cooperating agencies and/or schools. Upon successful completion of this class, students will gain a solid range of experience needed to earn credentials needed for professional development of skills in the childcare industry.
Prerequisites: Completion or co-enrollment in all required early childhood education courses or consent of department. Co-enrollment in EDU 297 Early Childhood Seminar.
NOTE: Only students who do not need additional coursework and who take the number of credits or courses as listed each semester can complete the program in the time given. Others will take longer to complete. Course descriptions may contain IAI (Illinois Articulation Initiative) codes containing information for students transferring their credits to another Illinois higher learning institution. See itransfer.org or the JWCC course catalog for more information on IAI.