Charter Oak State College Earns NAEYC Accreditation for Early Childhood Education Programs

Charter Oak State College's Early Childhood Education Programs

Charter Oak State College has made a significant stride in advancing early childhood education by obtaining accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) for its online Associate and Bachelor of Science degrees in Early Childhood Education. This accreditation marks a pivotal moment in the college's mission to provide quality education and supports the development of future educators dedicated to nurturing young minds.

Accreditation Details

The esteemed NAEYC accreditation commences from July 2025 and will be valid until December 2027. This recognition is not merely a badge of honor; it reflects the rigorous standards and commitment to excellence in early childhood education that Charter Oak State College strives to uphold. According to NAEYC officials, this accreditation guarantees that the programs meet professional standards and competencies necessary for preparing effective early childhood educators. It underscores the importance of maintaining a high level of program quality while respecting each program's unique context and community needs.

Commitment to Quality Education

Dr. Maureen Hogan, the Director of Early Childhood Education/Child Studies programs at Charter Oak, expressed her pride in this achievement. She stated, "The NAEYC accreditation validates our commitment to high-quality early childhood education for all children and families." This accreditation not only enhances the college's reputation but also reflects its dedication to providing affordable and accessible online educational options for aspiring educators.

With the increasing demand for qualified early childhood educators, Charter Oak's online B.S. in Early Childhood Education is tailored for individuals already working in the field or those looking to elevate their career in settings catering to children from birth to age 8. The program consists of a 27-credit major where students can select from three specialized concentrations: Teaching, Program Administration and Leadership, or Montessori education. This flexible structure empowers students to gain substantial professional education through a comprehensive curriculum designed for roles that do not require certification in administration or teaching.

Simultaneously, the online A.S. in Early Childhood Education introduces students to essential skills required for childcare professions, equipping them to work in daycare centers, family childcare homes, and preschool or kindergarten environments. This 33-credit major serves as a stepping stone for those intending to progress to the B.S. program.

Diverse Educational Offerings

Charter Oak State College stands out as Connecticut's only dedicated public online college, offering a variety of associate and bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields such as Business, Healthcare, Technology, Nursing, Social Work, Education, and Public Safety. In addition, the college provides graduate-level programs in Organizational Leadership, Health Data Analytics, Healthcare Administration, and Curriculum and Instruction. This breadth of programs showcases the college’s commitment to equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the ever-changing job market.

Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and governed by Connecticut's Board of Regents for Higher Education, Charter Oak State College continues to be a pioneering force in online education. For those interested in exploring the vast range of degree and certificate programs offered by Charter Oak's School of Education, further information can be found at www.charteroak.edu/ece.

In conclusion, with its NAEYC-accredited Early Childhood Education programs, Charter Oak State College is well-positioned to offer aspiring educators the quality training needed to make a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families.