Cincinnati State

Make a Difference as an Early Childhood Educator

Elevate your career and support your community. Cincinnati State’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program prepares you to work in childcare, preschools, elementary schools, and Head Start programs throughout the region.

Early Childhood Education at Cincinnati State

Start your career, improve your skills, or continue your studies toward a four-year degree. No matter your goals, Cincinnati State provides hands-on experience and instruction, all at a fraction of the cost of most traditional universities.

Multiple Career Pathways

Make a positive impact on the lives of young children with an ECE associate degree. This program prepares you for roles in childcare, preschool, elementary, or Head Start settings, while also helping you build toward a bachelor’s degree and an Ohio Pre-Kindergarten Associate Teacher License.

Real-World Learning Experience

The William L. Mallory Early Learning Center, located on the Clifton campus, offers ECE students the chance to learn by practicing in a working childcare environment. Student teaching requirements can also connect you with employers such as Cincinnati Public Schools, Learning Grove Early Learning Centers, and others.

Degree & Certificate Options

Choose the path that fits your goals with two Child Development Associate (CDA) options: an online format for those already in the workforce, or a hybrid experience that integrates with your associate degree and long-term plans. The CDA certificate program offers the courses required to earn the CDA credential, which can be taken in just one semester.

Learning Made for Your Career

Choosing Cincinnati State means choosing a path with proven career outcomes. Our graduates earn more than those from any other Ohio community college, thanks to programs designed to deliver real-world skills and direct connections to employers.

In Early Childhood Education, you can prepare for childcare, preschool, or assistant teacher roles while building skills in child development, classroom management, and family engagement. With employment of preschool teachers projected to grow 18 percent and childcare workers 8 percent through 2030, you’ll graduate into a promising career supporting young learners.

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