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There are several options available at Roane State for students wishing to enter the field of early childhood education.  Students may enter the TECTA program to pursue a state awarded Childcare Director's Credential or the nationally awarded Child Development Associate Credential.  Those students may then wish to pursue our Early Childhood Education A.A.S. degree.  Students may also wish to enter the A.A.S. program directly if not pursuing the CDA credential.

Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance

The TECTA program is designed for students who have a GED or high school diploma, are currently working in a DHS (Department of Human Services) licensed or registered child care facility in the state of Tennessee. The program provides 30 hours of cost free orientation. The participant then enrolls as a Roane State student and begins the first of four college classes which leads to the Child Development Associates (CDA) credential.

Student Requirements

1. Submit an application for admission and $20 non-refundable application fee.
2. Submit an official copy of high school transcript or GED scores.

The following courses are required:
TECTA Orientation (0) Non-credit

This course provides the childcare worker with thirty hours of instruction in the following areas: professionalism, individualism and cultural diversity, child development, developmentally appropriate practices, learning environments, health and safety, guidance, observation and assessment, family relationships, human relations, environment, and activities and curriculum. Prerequisite to the Level classes-students must enroll in one of the following Orientation classes (30 clock hours): Center Based; Infant/Toddler; School-Age; Family Based; Administration.

Students pursuing the CDA credential will be advised by the TECTA Office.  After completing these classes, students may wish to further their education by pursuing an A.A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education.

Associate of Applied Science Degree - Early Childhood Education

Roane State has developed the following courses to support the Head Start Reauthorization Act degree requirements for Head Start teacher/staff.

Students pursuing this area of study will be advised by the Social Science, Business and Education Division.

This program is designed for students who plan to enter the field upon graduation. Students intending to transfer to a baccalaureate program are advised that they should check with their academic advisor and the four-year institution regarding specific transfer of courses.  Students planning to transfer should major in the Associate of Science (AS) degree with a concentration in Early Childhood Education.

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