Early Childhood Education Degree

The early childcare program at Ridgewater College prepare students for a career as a daycare provider, social worker, camp counselor, recreation work, teacher assistant, or preschool teacher. The program focuses on teaching students ranging in age from infancy through eight years, depending on the school system or state regulations. Program courses include preparation to teach all relevant subject matter. Get more details below including other Minnesota colleges that offer early childhood education degrees.

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Ridgewater College

818 Dunwoody Blvd, Minneapolis, MN

History

Ridgewater College, located in Willmar, Minnesota, was founded in 1996 and is one of the newer two year public institutions in the state. The school works with its service area to provide academic support and workforce development, working closely with community business to identify needs and offer programs that fulfill those needs.

RC maintains small class sizes and up to date technology to ensure that the needs of current and future students are met, and no individual gets lost in the shuffle while pursing higher education. They are also responsible for a large number of organizations and programs that promote cultural development and arts appreciation.

Academics

Ridgewater College offers a wide range of classes and programs that allow students to pursue their goals and interests. Individuals working toward academic transfer will complete the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution to transfer earned credits and complete the final two years and earn their bachelor's degree.

Students transferring to public schools in Minnesota will have an easier time due to agreements in place that guarantee admission if all transfer admissions prerequisites are met. Individuals transferring to out of state or private schools will have to meet the varying transfer requirements of individual schools and should consult with a counselor to develop a curriculum that assists in matching such requirements.

Career training and technical programs provide education in a career related or technical field, resulting in the development of skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as qualified professionals.

Courses are taught in both classroom and simulated settings, with such controlled environments used to develop practical experience necessary for mastering necessary skills under the supervision of experienced specialists and instructors. Such programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or associate degree that demonstrates competency.

Programs offered include:

• Automotive Technology
• Cosmetology
• Accounting
• Liberal Arts
• Nursing

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students wishing to apply to Ridgewater College will have to fill out and submit an application, provide a copy of a high school diploma or GED score, standardized test scores for placement, and transcripts from all previously attended schools. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older. Students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum, and should participate in orientation to familiarize themselves with the campus.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, work study programs, and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used by the school to determine the extent of a student's financial need and their aid program eligibility when constructing a financial aid packet. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year.

Students Enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Ridgewater College has offered the following degree levels for students:

• Less Than One Year Certificate
• Associate's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education

Description

Instruct preschool-aged children in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth needed for primary school in preschool, day care center, or other child development facility. May be required to hold State certification.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, preschool teachers, except special education employment is expected to grow at a rate of 6.7% from 2014 to 2024

Salary & Wages

• Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI
  • Total Employment: 4
  • Average Hourly Rate: $16.29
  • Average Annual Salary: $33890

Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education

Description

Teach elemental natural and social science, personal hygiene, music, art, and literature to kindergarten students. Promote physical, mental, and social development. May be required to hold State certification.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, kindergarten teachers, except special education employment is expected to grow at a rate of 5.9% from 2014 to 2024

Salary & Wages

• Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI
  • Total Employment: 2
  • Average Annual Salary: $58990

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).