Degree Programs
Pursuing an Associate Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, Ed.D or Ph.D. in early care and education, child development, or another child-related field will help you develop the core knowledge and skills for a career in early childhood and school age care and education.
Financial Support
- TEACH Early Childhood® Michigan provides financial support for pursuing a degree. Financial support for credit bearing training taken at a community college or university is available by using the TEACH Early Childhood® Michigan scholarship program.
Additional financial support for credit based coursework that is stackable with the TEACH Scholarship funds include programs like:
- Michigan Reconnect scholarship
- Michigan Achievement Scholarship
- MI Future Educator Fellowship
- Tuition Incentive Program
- Federal Financial Aid
More information about these programs and additional eligibility specific scholarships can be found on the MI Student Aid site.
Additional Resources
- Students may earn college credit toward degree requirements while in high school. Visit the Office of Career and Technical Education (OCTE) website or Michigan Department of Education Dual Enrollment webpage for more information.
- Early Care and Education Registered Apprenticeship Program (ECE-RAP): This little-to-no-cost program offers on-the-job training opportunities combined with related instruction toward a Child Development Associate Credential or associate degree and a nationally recognized apprenticeship certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor. It is also a recognized MiRegistry Career Pathway, which can earn credit toward professional levels. For more information, visit Early Childhood Investment Corporation's (ECIC) Early Care and Education Registered Apprenticeship page.
Job Boards for Job Seekers and Recruiters
MAISA, MIAEYC, Great Start to Quality, and Early On, host free job boards to support workforce development.
Financial Supports
Learn about financial supports available to support your career development goals.
Use Self-Assessments for Career Guidance
Use self-assessments to understand how your skills and interests might align with career opportunities.
Explore Career Opportunities
Learn more about careers in the early childhood and school age care and education field.