Save up to $12,000 in tuition
This 12-month, paid program is your gateway to a job or career advancement in early childhood learning in Central Oregon.
The Early Childhood Career Development Program is designed for those interested in or currently working with young children. You’ll provide care and enrichment for infants to children age 5. A classroom teacher and your faculty mentor will help you learn skills in early learning that you can apply immediately to a job in Central Oregon.
Participating students receive:
- Paid work in your career field for an average of 12-20 hours a week
- Up to 45 academic credits, saving up to $12,000 in tuition and fees (based on enrollment)
- Career placement advising after completion, helping you find a teaching position at an early care and education program in Deschutes County
- Experience that meets state qualifications to be an early care and education teacher
Shape Futures
Impact the lives of our youngest children.
Up to $12,000
What you'll save in tuition and fees.
Early Childhood Career Support
Career support to help you put your skills to work in an early childhood setting in Deschutes County.
Who Can Apply?
This program is for individuals who are committed to early childhood education and aspire to work at least 20 hours per week in the field for two years following completion.
- High school graduates interested in a career in early learning
- Teachers’ aides seeking to fulfill Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care requirements for teachers.
- Initial preference given to students in:
- OSU-Cascades Human Development and Family Sciences, Early Childhood Option (or HDFS or Early Childhood Education minor)
- COCC Early Childhood Education program
Requirements
- Age 18 or older
- Meet minimum admission requirements at OSU-Cascades or COCC
- Complete a Criminal History Check