Rasmussen University Partners with ChildCare Education Institute to Support Early Childhood Education Professionals
Rasmussen University has recently formed a strategic partnership with ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI), a reputable provider of online education certificates and child care training for over 100,000 early childhood professionals. This collaboration aims to assist CCEI students in advancing their education and addressing the growing demand for early childhood education professionals.
Empowering Early Childhood Educators
Through this alliance, qualified students from CCEI will have the opportunity to leverage their existing knowledge and experience by enrolling in Rasmussen University’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs. This partnership offers several benefits to students, including the ability to earn an ECE Associate’s degree for as low as $10,000 and accelerate their path to degree completion.
Key Highlights of the Alliance
Self-Directed Assessments: CCEI students can earn up to 30 credits by successfully completing assessments that demonstrate their existing expertise, allowing them to bypass specific courses.
Course Waivers for CDA® Credential Holders: Students with a Child Development Associate® (CDA®) credential may waive up to 12 credits, streamlining their journey to degree completion.
Tuition Grant Opportunities: Eligible CCEI students may qualify for a tuition grant on Rasmussen University’s ECE Bachelor’s degree program and other online programs, providing financial support for furthering their education.
Meeting the Demand for Early Childhood Education Professionals
With the increasing demand for early childhood education professionals nationwide, the collaboration between Rasmussen University and CCEI aims to address a critical need in the field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth in early childhood education jobs from 2022 to 2032, highlighting the importance of equipping professionals with advanced education to meet this demand.
Importance of Higher Education in Early Childhood Education
As states and accrediting bodies raise requirements for childcare centers and preschools, employers are increasingly seeking candidates with degrees in Early Childhood Education. Research consistently shows that educators with higher levels of formal education deliver better quality instruction and contribute to improved developmental outcomes for children.
Benefits of Earning a Degree in Early Childhood Education
Preschool programs staffed with degree-holding teachers are more likely to provide enriched learning environments and promote school readiness, according to the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). Additionally, earning a degree in Early Childhood Education enhances career opportunities, including higher wages and leadership roles within the field.
Empowering Early Childhood Educators for Success
Chrystine Mitchell, director of Early Childhood Education Operations at CCEI, expressed excitement about the partnership with Rasmussen University, emphasizing the endless possibilities it offers for students to advance their careers through higher education. The alliance aims to unlock new opportunities for growth, achievement, and impact for early childhood educators.
About Rasmussen University’s Early Childhood Education Programs
Rasmussen University’s ECE programs are designed for individuals passionate about shaping the futures of children from birth to age six in non-public school settings or in leadership roles. The programs provide essential knowledge and skills to excel in early childhood education and care environments.
Students can earn an Early Childhood Education Associate’s degree in as few as 18 months through career-focused learning and flexible online courses. The program prepares students to meet the academic requirements for the CDA credential application and allows for specialization in Special Needs or Child Development.
For those aiming to advance in childcare leadership roles, the non-licensure Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s degree focuses on leadership and administration skills. Students can complete the degree in as few as 18 months through a blend of online courses and self-directed assessments, with the option to specialize in ECE Leadership or Child Development.
Wrapping Up
The partnership between Rasmussen University and CCEI underscores a commitment to empowering early childhood educators with the resources and support they need to succeed in the field. By offering accessible pathways to higher education and career advancement, this alliance aims to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals in early childhood education.