Program Links

Saint Paul College Programs

Child Development Careers American Sign Language

Overview

This program is designed for an individual who would like to transfer to earn a bachelor’s degree to become a licensed early childhood teacher in the public schools and/or to have advanced specialization in order to incorporate American Sign Language (ASL) in early childhood settings. (Program Brochure)

For additional information about recommended Course Sequence, Minimum Program Entry Requirements and Program Outcomes, please see the Program Guide Sheets.

Available programs, courses and course descriptions:
• Child Development Careers American Sign Language AS Degree

What You'll Learn

Fundamental principles of child development and developmentally appropriate guidance practices.
Skills to work with diverse groups of children such as children who have:

Hearing impairments
Autism
Learning disabilities
Developmental delays
Communication disorders
A home language other than English (learning English with ASL helps dramatically)
Not learned to talk yet (infants can sign months before they can say their first word)
Not learned to read (ASL is a bridge from verbal to written communication)

Skills in family, community, and staff relations

Career Settings

Child Care Centers, Preschools and Nursery Schools
Elementary schools as paraprofessionals (No Child Left Behind Act requires an associate degree)
Early Childhood Family Education
Early Childhood Special Education
Extended day school-age programs
Home-based settings: family child care, nannies and home visitors
Hospitals and Child Life Programs
Start your own business

Potential Employers

Head Start
Children's Home Society & Family Services
Public Schools

Additional Benefits

The employment outlook is estimated to grow faster than average through 2010.
Opportunities exist for students to transfer to a 4-year institution after earning Associate in Science (AS).
Scholarship money is available for those who are already in the field and want to earn a degree.