Southern WV Community & Technical College Offers Degree in Early Childhood Development

Empowering the Next Generation of Childcare Professionals

Mount Gay, WV – Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College is proud to offer its Early Childhood Development Program, a comprehensive degree designed for individuals passionate about nurturing and educating children from infancy through early childhood.

The program provides both classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences to equip students with a deep understanding of the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of young children. This well-rounded education prepares graduates for meaningful careers in early childhood settings.

Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue roles as preschool teachers in a variety of settings, including privately owned childcare centers, publicly funded daycare programs, and religious organizations. Opportunities also exist for those interested in becoming self-employed by opening and operating their childcare centers.

“Preschool teachers play a critical role in early education, engaging children in developmentally appropriate activities such as arts and crafts, storytelling, music, group play, and nature exploration,” said Courtney Pritchard, Southern Education Instructor. “These activities support children’s growth in foundational social, emotional, and cognitive skills. The profession offers flexibility, with full- and part-time roles available, and year-round employment.”

Southern’s Early Childhood Development Program is designed to immerse students in the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional principles that are critical for working with children from infancy throughout early childhood. Through our Education Courses, students will either complete an Early Childhood Certificate or an Early Childhood Degree.

In addition to preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce, the Early Childhood Development Program can also serve as a stepping stone for those pursuing an elementary teaching license. By transferring to a four-year institution and completing state licensure requirements, students can expand their career options into public school teaching.

Most courses within the program are offered online, providing added convenience for working students or those with family responsibilities.

Students may also pursue embedded certificates or skillsets as part of the program, further enhancing their qualifications and employability in the early childhood field.

Kara Woody, a current student, shared her experience: “Seeing their faces light up and smile while interacting with them is what it’s all about to me. Making a difference and having a positive influence on children and their lives is so important and rewarding.”

“If you think you might enjoy a career in teaching, I highly recommend joining this program,” said Joshua Copley, a student in the education pathway. “It helped solidify my decision to pursue my goal of becoming the best teacher I can be. The program opened my eyes to the critical role education plays in our society and replaced many of the negative perceptions with a deeper understanding of its positive impact.”

For more information about the Early Childhood Development Program or to apply, visit www.southernwv.edu or contact Pritchard at 304-896-7229 or .