Early Childhood Education

Teacher sitting on the floor with toddlers, engaging them in play and learning activities.

From Student to Teacher: Your Journey Starts Here

Gain real-world experience observing local classrooms and connecting with university partners through specialized transfer fairs and recruitment events. Start your journey here to build the skills and professional connections needed to become an inspiring educator at an affordable cost.

Apply Now Visit Campus

About the Program

Program Overview
The Early Childhood Education program at Garden City Community College prepares students for rewarding careers working with young children in a variety of educational settings. This affordable program provides a strong foundation in child development, early learning, and classroom practices, with flexible course delivery that includes fully online Early Childhood Education classes and additional online and in-person requirements. Students also receive personalized support through one-on-one advising.

Multiple Pathways to Fit Your Goals
Students can choose between two main pathways based on their career goals. The Certificate Program includes 17 credit hours of advanced coursework designed for those seeking immediate employment in childcare centers or as licensed in-home childcare providers. The Associate in Science degree is a 60-credit-hour, transfer-focused pathway for students planning to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree, particularly those interested in becoming Pre-K teachers.

Career and Education Ready
Both pathways prepare students to meet the needs of young children, provide high-quality learning experiences, and support success in early childhood education careers or continued study at a four-year institution.

Credentials

Explore the full curriculum and courses using the link(s) below!

Early Childhood Education and Child Care Certificate - 17 credit hours

ECHD.CERTA - is designed for students who want to earn an industry credential in Early Childhood, and is most suited for those wanting to work in a childcare setting. This is an non-transferable certificate.

Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education - 60 credit hours

ECHD.AS - is designed for students wanting to teach early childhood education, but not the traditional elementary school route (up to grade 6). This is a transferable degree to a four-year institution, and the first step in earning a bachelor's degree.

Transfer Information

Talk to your advisor for more information transferring, so you know which electives are best suited for your future plans.

Highlights

Each year, GCCC hosts a Transfer Fair specifically for Education majors to connect with university partners and local school districts. Throughout the program, you'll observe in real classrooms and learn directly from experienced K-12 teachers.

Opportunity to be part of the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program through KSDE. Education degrees and Early Childhood certificates are eligible for Kansas Promise Scholarships.

Other Information

It is recommended that all students take the Accuplacer test for Math, Reading, and Writing prior to enrollment.

Scholarship

Kansas Promise Scholarship Eligible
This program qualifies for the Kansas Promise Scholarship, giving you the opportunity to earn a degree or certificate at little to no cost.

The Kansas Promise is a “last-dollar” scholarship that covers tuition, fees, books, and other program-related expenses not already paid by other scholarships or grants. It’s available to eligible Kansas students enrolled in high-demand programs. In return, recipients agree to live and work in Kansas for two years after completing their program.

Learn More!

Promotional flyer for Garden City Community College’s “So You Want to Be a Teacher” information fair. Event is March 4, 2027, from 3-6 p.m. Students can connect with academic advisors, transfer universities, and local school districts. QR code for registration, contact information for Layla Martinez

So You Want to Be a Teacher?

An Information Fair for Students at Garden City Community College
Free & Open to the Public!
March 4, 2027 from 3:00-6:00 PM

Attendee Registration

During this come-and-go event, you can connect with academic advisors, transfer universities, and local school districts!

Click here to register to attend!

Institution Registration

Showcase your institution’s education programs and district employment opportunities to Garden City area incoming freshman, non-traditional students, and potential transfers. Register for your free booth by Feb. 12, 2027:

Click here to register your institution

Questions? Contact Layla Martinez, Associate Professor of Education, at 620-275-3235 or layla.martinez@gcccks.edu

Career Outlook

Salary information is provided for general informational purposes only and represents estimates, not guarantees. Actual earnings may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and employer. Some careers may require education, certifications, or training beyond programs offered at Garden City Community College.