Employment in the childhood education field is expected to grow moderately over the next several years. A large number of openings in the field of childhood education are expected due to a large group of teachers reaching retirement age, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Liberal Arts and Sciences: Childhood Education (Teacher Education Transfer) program at Finger Lakes Community College is designed to prepare students to transfer to bachelor's degree programs in childhood education to become certified teachers of first- through sixth-grade students.

The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Liberal Arts and Sciences: Childhood Education (Teacher Education Transfer) program is designed for students who plan to teach children in first- through sixth-grade. The program introduces students to the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education; explores the role of the teacher; provides coursework in the structure and organization of schools; and offers the opportunity for structured school observations. The program also provides the liberal arts coursework necessary for students to transfer to childhood education programs at SUNY and private colleges.

Students in this program are introduced to the field of education and teaching through academic coursework in the philosophy, history, and social issues of American schools and education. Coursework also includes a liberal arts foundation important to those preparing to become teachers. Additionally, 30 hours of guided field observation will expose students to their specific grade level of interest.

Students in this program will transfer to SUNY colleges such as Geneseo, Cortland and Oswego, as well as private colleges, such as Keuka, to pursue bachelor’s degrees in the field of education. *The College has articulation agreements specifically for teacher education with SUNY Geneseo, SUNY Brockport, Keuka College, and Roberts Wesleyan College. Currently, Finger Lakes Community College alumni teach in many schools throughout New York State and beyond.

*This is a sampling of some of the four-year colleges and universities to which our students have transferred. Please consult your advisor or the Center for Advisement and Personal Development for a complete listing of transfer agreements between Finger Lakes Community College and four-year institutions.