Programs of Study


Preschool Certificate

Program Description

Craven Community College’s AAS Early Childhood Education Birth to Kindergarten (B-K) LICENSURE TRANSFER degree prepares students to transfer into one of twelve University of North Carolina institutions to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Birth-Kindergarten Teaching. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of foundational theories of child growth, development, and learning, observation and assessment, planning, domains of development, guidance, and ways to effectively communicate with parents, children, and other professionals in the field. Learning opportunities and course assignments provide students with a strong foundation in evidenced-based and current principles to work with children, families, and the community. Students will show competency in the program by integrating learned theories with practice in early childhood settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have a recognized equivalency.

Transfer Opportunities

The AAS Early Childhood Education Birth to Kindergarten (B-K) LICENSURE TRANSFER option is the result of a statewide articulation agreement between the NC Community College System and the University of North Carolina. The AAS ECE degree does not guarantee students acceptance into any bachelor program at UNC institutions. ECE graduates must meet applicable admission criteria and polices designated by, and earn admission into, the UNC institution of their choice.

UNC System ECE to Bachelor in Birth-Kindergarten Teaching licensure option:

  • Appalachian State University
  • East Carolina University
  • Elizabeth City State University
  • Fayetteville State University
  • North Carolina Agricultural and
    Technical University
  • North Carolina Central University
  • University of North Carolina Charlotte
  • University of North Carolina Greensboro
  • University of North Carolina Pembroke
  • University of North Carolina Wilmington
  • Western Carolina University
  • Winston- Salem State University

Career Opportunities

The Birth to Kindergarten (B-K) license degree allows an individual to become a licensed teacher and work in a NC Pre-K classroom or in a kindergarten classroom. Along with a variety of careers such as (including, but not limited to):

  • Child Development Specialist
  • Program Directors
  • Child Life Specialists
  • Paraprofessionals in early special education

Contact Information

Dr. Terri Colon,
Lead Early Childhood Education Instructor colont@cravencc.edu
252-638-7239

Admissions Office
252-638-7430

Certificate Requirements

Courses in this program

Certificate Classes