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Volunteer State Community College

Early Childhood Education Program

This career program is designed to prepare students for entry and advancement in the early childhood education profession. The program meets the TECTA (Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance) model which enhances the quality of early care and education of young children. Students can work for an associate of applied science degree or a technical certificate in early childhood education. Graduates of this degree program may also be able to transfer to a four year university and complete the baccalaureate degree in early childhood education.

Early Childhood Accelerated Program

A new accelerated format will guide students through a cohort-based program allowing students to complete the Early Childhood Technical Certificate by attending classes one night per week with online components; additional classes may be taken in the traditional 15-week format or totally online. This Certificate leads to an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education. Upon approval of the Early Childhood Coordinator, committed students will join a cohort group who will complete eight courses (17 hours) in a fall and spring accelerated program delivered one night per week with an online component. The additional 6 hours required for the Certificate may be taken either online or on the traditional fifteen-week schedule on the other four nights. To enroll in the Accelerated Program contact the Early Childhood Coordinator, Dr. Susan Brandt 615 230-3380 or susan.brandt@volstate.edu, or the Social Science Division 615 230-3240.

TSU Partnership

A partnership with Tennessee State University allows students to take education classes at Vol State leading to a bachelor of science degree. The course work will prepare students for pre-kindergarten to third grade certification in early childhood education or kindergarten to sixth grade teacher certification in elementary education.

Degree Advancement Program Agreement with MTSU

MTSU and Vol State have developed an AAS-to-BS program to allow students who earn an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education at Vol State to transfer the majority of those credits to MTSU toward the completion of a Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. This degree is offered through MTSU’s University College in cooperation with the Tennessee Board of Regents.

MTSU provides a wealth of information about Degree Advancement Program on their website; including an information sheet about Early Childhood Education.

Contact Us

For more information contact the Social Science and Education office at (615) 230 - 3231.