Early Childhood Director
This credential is designed for current and future directors and/or owners of early care and education programs. Combined with the appropriate degree and required work experience in the field, this credential enables students to earn the Pennsylvania Early Childhood Director Credential. This program of study should make individuals attractive candidates for director positions in programs, especially those participating in Pennsylvania's Quality Initiative, Keystone Stars. The course work emphasizes the director as one who assumes a leadership role in programmatic and administrative areas, including curriculum, program planning and quality, staff supervision, pedagogical practices, and support for young children and their families. This credential consists of nine credits beyond an associate degree in a field specified by PA Key. A grade of 'C' or higher must be earned in each course, and an elective used to satisfy the requirements for an associate's degree may not be used for this credential. For further information see the Pennsylvania Early Learning Keys to Quality website: www.pakeys.org
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: 021 – view in catalog
- School: Integrated Studies
- Degree Type: Competency Credential
After graduation
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2008, preschool and child care program administrators had median annual wages of $39,940. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,290 and $54,680. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,910 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $77,150.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Day Care Services | 32,860 | 4.13 | $21.07 | $43,830 |
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | 8,570 | 0.10 | $35.20 | $73,210 |
| Individual and Family Services | 2,970 | 0.24 | $24.53 | $51,030 |
| Civic and Social Organizations | 1,780 | 0.46 | $21.68 | $45,090 |
| Religious Organizations | 830 | 0.45 | $29.15 | $60,630 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Clubs & Activities
- Children's Learning Center - work with toddlers and preschoolers
- Early Educators
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Early Childhood Director Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
