Education studies
Associate of Arts
Program Description
This program provides students with knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with early learning settings and public education. The program allows for increased marketability for direct entry into the workforce in an entry-level position with an education provider and affords those currently employed by education providers with professional growth opportunities.
Major coursework involves studying the background, theory, and current trends within education including instructional and classroom design; assessment of student learning; identifying the needs of typical and atypical students; and cognitive development. Additionally, communication strategies for teachers to engage in with children and their families are researched and practiced through the program coursework.
Along with completing coursework in the foundations of teaching and learning, students choose specializations within the program that are tailored to their specific goals as an educator. Specializations include early childhood education; family and cultural perspectives in education; and special education.
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What You'll Learn
Education Studies
In interactive class sessions, students may be involved in learning experiences that include:
Studying the processes involved in learning with sensitivity to the diverse and exceptional needs of children and families.
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Role playing parent communication, child behavior management, and scaffolded learning strategies.
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Practicing observation and assessment strategies for evaluating student learning and development.
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Earning industry-recognized credentials for entry-level positions in the field of education.
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Gain critical understanding of the American education system’s foundation.
Career Outlook in Education Studies
Career opportunities include assistant teacher, paraeducator, group supervisor, school-aged childcare, and community organization staff. Graduates are eligible to own and operate a home childcare program or serve as a lead teacher in certain settings.
The program establishes a foundation that permits students to prepare for a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, middle level education, or special education.
There are 5,690 projected annual job openings in Pennsylvania for childcare workers. (O*Net OnLine)
There are more than 8,000 projected annual job openings in Pennsylvania for teaching assistants (preschool, elementary, middle, and secondary School) and elementary school teachers.
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Related Programs
Child Development Associate
The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in the Early Childhood Education field. Students at NPRC can choose a CDA age level for Infant-Toddler, Preschool, Family Child Care, or Home Visitor. The program is offered over a 39-week schedule with scheduled remote class participation.
Paraeducators Pathway Program
Major coursework in this program involves studying the background, theory, and current trends within education including instructional and classroom design; assessment of student learning; identifying the needs of typical and atypical students; and cognitive development. Additionally, communication strategies for teachers to engage in with children and their families are researched and practiced through the program coursework.
Childcare Director Credential
This program specialization can be pursued as part of the attainment of the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, or as a standalone set of three courses for individuals who already have an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in early childhood education.
Education Studies FAQ's
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Growing up in rural Potter County, Pennsylvania meant if I wanted good educational and employment opportunities, I would have to move. When NPRC started offering classes less than 30 minutes from my home (almost an hour closer than the next closest college), my future was no longer dependent on living in a more urban area. I received a quality education without spending the tens of thousands of dollars on room and board a traditional school would have required. And now, I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the team making this story possible for so many other people in rural Pennsylvania. NPRC’s mission is a necessary one, helping serve a part of the population that has lacked affordable and quality higher education for decades. This school helped me avoid debt, find my path in life, and now, I have a job I love and opportunities I never expected.
- Brian, NPRC Graduate
While attending NPRC, I am enrolled in 16 credits and working toward a degree in business administration. This switch is already positively benefitting me as a student. I have been keeping up with classes and shifting out of bad habits that may hinder my success. As someone who is diagnosed with anxiety and ADHD, it sometimes gets hard to effectively communicate. However, NPRC continues to provide opportunities to not only challenge myself, but to help me grow as a student, and more importantly, as a person. NPRC was my second chance. My second chance to help me build myself better, and I feel like my future is already better than what it was before NPRC.
-Noah, Business Administration Student
My time at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College has been a great experience even through the COVID-19 pandemic. Never did I imagine doing a year of college in my own home and still be able to be on the Dean’s List and be extremely proud. I am 39 years of age, and it has taken me this long to attempt college. I have to say that starting college at this age was hard. However, everyone at NPRC has made it easy for me to understand what it means to be studious. You can feel the care that is given to you through the staff at NPRC. The instructors are always willing to help and they will always answer the questions that we have. This college is a great way to get started on your new path through life. There are so many options to pick from if you are undecided.
-Claudia, NPRC Graduate
I started with NPRC right after graduating high school in 2018. I was not sure what I wanted to do career-wise, but the criminal justice field had always piqued my interest. Before finishing my two-year degree with NPRC, I decided to transfer to a four-year university to further my education in both sociology and criminal justice. Without the affordability of NPRC and their knowledgeable staff, I would never have dreamed of being where I am today. I will be graduating from RIT in August of 2022 having majored in Sociology and Criminal Justice, as well as having minored in Criminal Justice. I am excited to start a career in the federal Criminal Justice system or within admissions/counseling in higher education. I plan to put myself through law school while working full time after graduating from RIT.
-Ally, Former NPRC Student
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