Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education & Teaching

Explore Odessa College’s Early Childhood Education program designed for students who want to teach young learners and pursue certification to work in classrooms serving Pre-K through Grade 3.

This pathway is intended for future teachers — not childcare administrators — and focuses on instructional practice, classroom leadership, and preparation for educator certification.

Disclaimer: The Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Teaching (ECET EC–3) at Odessa College provides comprehensive training in early childhood education but does not currently lead to teacher certification in Texas. Read more HERE.

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Pathway Overview

Students begin with the Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT), which builds foundational knowledge in:

• Child development
• Teaching methods
• Classroom management
• Lesson planning

After completing the associate degree, students transition directly into the Bachelor’s ECET EC–3 program, completing upper-level coursework and classroom-based training.

This structured pathway allows students to progress from student → paraprofessional → classroom teacher.

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Transferability

You do not need to restart college after completing an associate degree.

The AAT degree transfers to many Texas universities.

Students may continue into advanced educator preparation programs or certifications beyond Grade 3.

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Benefits of Getting a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education

Earning a bachelor childhood education degree prepares graduates for professional teaching careers and advancement in schools. 

Graduates gain:

• Preparation for EC–3 teaching certification
• Higher earning potential than aide or childcare roles
• Skills to manage and lead a classroom
• Experience working with diverse learners
• Career mobility within public and private schools

This program is ideal for students ready to move from assisting teachers to becoming the teacher of record.

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Career Opportunities

Graduates of the early childhood education program may pursue careers such as:

• EC–3 classroom teacher (public, charter, or private school)
• Pre-K or Kindergarten teacher
• Early literacy interventionist
• Instructional support specialist
• Bilingual or ESL early grades teacher (with certification)
• Lead teacher in elementary settings

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Certification Disclaimer

Completion of either the Bachelor's ECET EC–3 or the Bachelor's ECET Child Development program does not result in automatic teacher certification. Graduates who wish to pursue teacher certification must apply to and complete an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) or Alternative Certification Program (ACP) following graduation.