Fisher College
AA in Early Childhood Education Director Concentration (Online)
About the Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education Director
The Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education Director concentration provides comprehensive preparation for careers in early childhood education, combining a strong academic foundation with hands-on practicum experiences. Students gain both theoretical and practical knowledge as they explore the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development of children from birth through the preschool years.
The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of aspiring childcare professionals by focusing on the unique developmental stages and challenges children face as they grow. Courses and practicum experiences prepare students to make a meaningful impact in the field of early childhood education.
This program satisfies the course requirements for teacher certification by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and meets the competencies required for the Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). To participate in practicum experiences, students must complete CORI, SORI, and fingerprint screenings in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care regulations.
Licensure Requirements
Fisher Colleges Early Education and Care Program is designed to meet certification for early childhood education (birth -5) in all 50 states but is not a public-school licensure program. Fisher College has not made a determination whether this program meets Pre-K - 12th grade licensure. Students seeking professional licensure should contact the appropriate Department of Education licensing board in that state to verify licensure requirements. See list below of licensure requirements for Early Childhood Centers by state.
Program Requirements
Early Childhood Education Career Track
Graduates of the Associate in Arts in Early Childhood Education degree can explore a wide range of career paths within childcare and early education settings.
Many past students have successfully pursued roles such as Early Intervention Specialist, Early Childhood Educator, or Early Childhood Education Director. Others have found positions as Assistant Teachers, Teachers, or Head Teachers. Career advancement opportunities also exist, with some graduates stepping into roles as Directors or Nannies.
Many Fisher College Early Childhood Education interns receive job offers from one or more of their practicum sites, reflecting the strong professional connections and hands-on experience gained during the program. For those continuing their education, these internships provide valuable preparation and practical insights, paving the way for success in a baccalaureate program and beyond.
*Based on continuous enrollment of two courses every term. Time to completion may be shorter based on eligible transfer credit or longer if course enrollment varies.
Program Snapshot
Credits: 62
Term Length: 8 weeks
Learning Format: Online
Typical Time to Completion*: 10 terms; 20 months
Additional Information
Degree Pathways
Students who have earned a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential may be eligible to be awarded up to 7 credits through Prior Learning Assessment.