Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education: Leadership & Inclusive Practices

Program Eligibility

To qualify for admission applicants must:

• Have completed a regionally accredited AAS or AA degree in one of the following: Early Childhood Education, Paraeducation, Human Services, or related field. Other associate degrees will be considered on a case by case basis and may require prerequisite coursework. Associate degrees and the following courses (or equivalents) must be completed prior to beginning senior level BAS coursework.
  • EDUC& 115  - Child Development
  • ECED& 160  - Curriculum Development
  • ECED& 190  - Observation & Assessment
  • EDUC& 150  - Child, Family & Community
  • EDUC& 204  - Exceptional Child
  • EDUC 240  - Education Practicum
• Evidence of clearance or ability to clear a criminal history background check through the state of Washington.  Fingerprinting is typically required.
• Offical transcripts from regionally accredited college or university, 
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA)  of 2.5 or better with no class lower than a 2.0 (preferred).

Application Process

• Complete the application for the BAS in Early Childhood Education.
• Upload your college transcripts showing a completed AA/S degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted for the application, but official transcripts will be required.

Requirements

Your BAS is built from general education requirements, core coursework, and program specific classes. Many of the requirements below will be met with your AA/S coursework.

Total Program Credits: 180 Credits

Learning Outcomes

Critically analyze and apply advanced knowledge of typical and atypical child development, including the impact of disabilities, trauma, and other individual differences, to design and implement to create environments that promote equitable learning outcomes for all children.

Lead and facilitate collaborative partnerships with diverse families, communities, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure the individualized needs of all children are met within inclusive settings.

Evaluate and synthesize data from a variety of observation and assessment methods, individualized education program (IEP) processes, and information from families, to inform instruction, identify possible delays or disabilities, evaluate program effectiveness, and advocate for appropriate services.

Adapt and implement a wide array of developmentally appropriate approaches and assistive technologies to support the learning and participation of culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse children.

Develop and evaluate inclusive curricula that are aligned with developmental milestones, individual needs, applicable standards, and current research, including accommodations, modifications, and individualized learning plans to ensure access, participation, equitable outcomes for all children.

Demonstrate leadership in adhering to ethical and professional standards, including those related to confidentiality, advocacy, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, to promote equitable outcomes for all children and families.

Notes

• Not all classes are offered every quarter. It’s important to create a plan with your advisor 
• A grade of 2.0 in each ECE/EDUC or other education course is required to apply to the degree. General education credits will be accepted in accordance with Highline College policy.
• Some classes require fieldwork, for example, program observations, practicum hours, and/or service learning. These may require a criminal history background clearance (fingerprinting is typically required), a negative TB test, vaccinations, and/or other site specific requirements.
• Education coursework older than 5 years may not apply. General education credits will be accepted regardless of age.
• Some classes have entry requirements not listed here.
• A minimum of 50 credits of General Education courses are required to receive a BAS degree
• A minimum of 60 credits of 300/400 level courses are required to receive a BAS degree