Early childhood educators play a major role in how children develop, both emotionally and educationally. We are part of the family.
Having the skills to communicate effectively with children is important, and you will learn how to do just that in our Early Care and Education program.
Meet Program Coordinator Babs Hughes and learn more about the program.
How does OCtech prepare you for working with young children? Hear what this graduate has to say.
Our graduates are prepared - and our employers think so, too!
Parents put their children in childcare facilities every day. They put their trust in you. You'll earn that trust by learning about classroom management, safety, nutrition, educational concepts and more. Gain confidence during supervised field experience.
Choose your program depending on what you want to achieve. Whether it's working in early care or starting your own childcare business, you'll be well-qualified when you leave OCtech.
As you study, you can earn state credentials that can qualify you for Smart Money Bonuses. T.E.A.C.H. scholarships are also available that could make your education even more attainable.
Paying for college is not as hard as you may think. Many of our students attend for little to no tuition cost.
Early Care and Education Degree
$2,652 per semester
Early Childhood Development Diploma
$2,925 per semester
Early Childhood Development Certificate
$2,925 per semester
Applicable fees and approximately $750 for books and supplies. Your actual cost may vary.
*Based on 2021-22 full-time / in-county tuition
Schedule a tour and see what we've got to offer.
Applying online is free and takes just a few minutes.
Paying for college is easier than you think.
Barbara "Babs" Hughes
Early Care and Education
Program Coordinator
I was born and raised in Orangeburg, SC. After high school I went to the university of South Carolina where I received a BA in English literature with a minor in Early Childhood Education. I also have a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Care and Education from USC and an additional 30 graduate hours with an emphasis in instructional technology. I have worked in childcare across the state as a first and second grade teacher and as an elementary school administrator.
Accreditation
The Associate of Applied Science degree program in Early Care and Education at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, www.naeyc.org. The accreditation term runs from March 2021-March 2023.
To review accreditation status, please visit the OCtech Program Accreditation/Approval page.
Program Outcome Data:
Associate in Applied Science: Early Care and Education
Accreditation Outcome Measures
Mission Statement
Improve the service area’s capacity to meet the unique social, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs of all young children by producing education professionals reflective of their community and capable of putting research into practice.
Candidate Learning Objectives
Associate in Applied Science: Early Care and Education