Merritt College Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE) for Transfer (AS-T)
Merritt College

Merritt College

Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE) for Transfer (AS-T)

Oakland, USA

Associate of Applied Science

2 years

English

Full time

Jan 2026

USD 7,120 / per semester *

On-Campus

* this is for a standard 15 credit semester including fees / price may vary depending on how many credits are taken

Key Summary

    About : The Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education for Transfer (AS-T) is designed to equip students for further study in the field of Early Childhood Education. This program provides foundational knowledge and skills essential for working with children from birth to age eight. It focuses on developmental theories, educational practices, and appropriate curriculum for early learners.
    Career Outcomes : Graduates may pursue various opportunities, including roles such as preschool teacher, childcare center director, or early childhood education consultant. The program prepares students for seamless transition to a four-year institution to further enhance their career prospects in education.

The Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE) for Transfer (AS-T) degree is intended to meet the lower-division requirements for ECE majors (or majors that have been deemed similar in the CSU system).

The AS-T degree prepares students to function in a variety of early childhood programs and services and is for students who seek to transfer to a California State University institution or to prepare for a career in early childhood education by meeting the requirements to work in public or private child care facilities.

Successful completion of the program with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.0 affords students specific guarantees for transfer to the CSU system such as admission to a CSU with junior status, priority admission to their local CSU campus, and to a program or major in ECE or similar major. Students interested in the Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education for Transfer degree should consult with the Child Development Department Chair and a counselor.

As required by Senate Bill (SB) 1440 (Padilla) and California Education Code (CEC) section 66746(a), Associate Degrees for Transfer require:

  • Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to California State University.
  • The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education – Breadth Requirements.
  • A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
  • Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
  • A grade of “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis.

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