Early Childhood

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Early Childhood program?

The program takes two years (four terms) and leads to an Early Childhood Teacher Licensure, Transfer Major Associate of Arts (AA) degree. It requires 64 credit hours and is offered at Marshalltown Community College and Ellsworth Community College.

What will I study in Early Childhood?

Courses include Child Growth and Development, Children's Literature, Math for Liberal Arts, Math for Elementary Teachers, Exceptional Learner, Multicultural Education, Art for the Elementary Educator, Technology in the Classroom, Nutrition, U.S. History, and American National Government, plus composition and humanities courses.

Will I be a licensed teacher when I finish?

No. Iowa teaching licensure requires a bachelor's degree from an approved teacher preparation program. This AA covers the first two years, and you complete licensure requirements after you transfer.

What bachelor's degrees can I transfer into?

Common majors include early childhood education with teacher licensure, early childcare education and programming, child, adult, and family services, and family and consumer sciences education and studies.

What do early childhood teachers earn in Iowa?

With a bachelor's degree and license, graduates teach preschool, kindergarten, and the early elementary grades. In Iowa, kindergarten teachers earn an average of $58,377 a year and elementary teachers $60,441, according to the job outlook data on this page.

How much does the Early Childhood program cost?

For 2026-2027, tuition and fees are $243 per credit hour for Iowa residents, about $15,600 for the full 64-credit degree before financial aid. Early Childhood Teacher Licensure is not on Iowa Valley's 2026-2027 Last-Dollar Scholarship program list, but you may qualify for federal and state grants and Iowa Valley scholarships. Start by completing the FAFSA.