Early Childhood Education

Program Information

On-Campus

Inspire the next generation and build a career that makes a lasting difference with the Casper College early childhood education program. Whether you are a traditional student passionate about teaching or a childcare professional looking to advance your career, our program offers the academic foundation and practical training you need. You will dive into the science of child development, learning how to create engaging, age-appropriate curriculum for children from birth to age 8.

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Program Options and Timelines

Degrees and Certificates

We offer a specialized academic pathway designed for students who plan to transfer and earn a baccalaureate degree.

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Early Childhood Education

Cost and Financial Aid

Casper College is a national leader in “affordable excellence,” consistently ranking as one of the best values for higher education in Wyoming. We are committed to helping you understand the investment you are making in your future by providing transparent cost information and personalized support. While individual costs vary based on residency and course load, many students use a combination of federal grants, the Hathaway Scholarship, and other funding sources to help manage their educational expenses.

We encourage you to use our net price calculator and contact our financial aid office for a customized estimate of your costs and aid eligibility.

Career Paths

The demand for qualified early childhood educators is high across Wyoming and the nation, offering a variety of rewarding career opportunities.

Note: Most careers in education require a background check. Maintaining a clean criminal record is essential for student teaching placements and future employment in this field.

Accreditation

Our program maintains the highest standards of professional preparation. The Early Childhood Education Associate of Arts degree at Casper College is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Transfer Opportunities

Starting your teaching journey at Casper College is a smart investment. The A.A. degree is specifically designed for a seamless transfer to a four-year institution. Most students transfer to the University of Wyoming or the University of Wyoming at Casper to complete a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with an early childhood endorsement or a bachelor’s in child development. Learn more about Transfer Agreements.

Program Resources

Program Outcomes

Secondary Education CTE Endorsement

Are you a licensed teacher or teaching with a PIC permit? Are you interested in teaching this subject matter in classes at the junior, middle, and/or high school levels? You can complete a set of courses within this program to qualify for a career and technical education teaching endorsement. Learn more about which courses count toward a CTE endorsement.

FAQ

How do I apply for this program?

Applying is easy and free! You can start your journey by filling out our online application using the button at the top of this page. There is no application fee for Casper College.

How do I get started if I have more questions?

The best first step is to “Request Information” using the button at the top of this page or schedule a campus visit. We’d love to show you our state-of-the-art facilities and introduce you to our friendly faculty.

Is financial aid available for this program?

Yes. Most credit-bearing programs are eligible for federal financial aid, grants, and our many institutional scholarships. More information about financial aid.

Can I transfer these credits to a four-year university?

Casper College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and certain programs may also offer specialty accreditation. Casper College has strong transfer agreements with the University of Wyoming and many other regional and national universities. More information about transferring to or from Casper College.

What if I’m not a "traditional" student?

You’ll fit right in. We serve a diverse community of learners of all ages, including students balancing work and family. We offer flexible scheduling and support services designed to help everyone succeed, no matter where they are in their life journey.

What is the learning environment like?

We pride ourselves on a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of about 12 students. This allows for the individualized service and real-world connections that define the Casper College experience.

Are there ways to get involved outside of my classes?

Absolutely! Casper College has many student clubs and organizations. Whether you want to join the Student Senate, the Esports Club, or even the T-Bird Gaming Club, there is a community here for you. More information about student clubs and activities<.

Is on-campus housing available?

Yes, we have both a residence hall and apartment options. Apartments are generally recommended for our sophomores and nontraditional students. You can even view our housing and meal rates right on the website to help with your planning. More housing information. More information about dining options.

Where exactly is the campus located?

Our beautiful campus is situated right between Casper Mountain and the North Platte River, offering a great mix of academic life and outdoor adventure. More information and campus map.

Casper College has an atmosphere of genuine appreciation and love for its students. From my first admissions council to beyond graduation, the staff truly cared for me every step of the way.

Dawsen