SUNY Canton Launches Four-Year Early Childhood Care and Management Degree

SUNY Canton’s newest bachelor’s degree will offer advanced learning opportunities for students seeking careers in the childcare field.

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Early Childhood Care and Management builds upon the college’s popular Associate of Science in Early Childhood Studies degree. It offers courses related to child development, curriculum planning, program administration, leadership, and business management.

Pictured are (l to r) SUNY Canton student Alaijah Grant looks on while Fatima C. Kamara reads to Grady Boyer in the Early Childhood Literacy Center. 

Numerous graduates and students enrolled in the associate degree program have sought a four-year option, according to Professor Maureen P. Maiocco, who is the lead faculty member for the Early Childhood Care and Management program and Social Sciences Department Chair.

“Many public and private organizations and companies are seeking applicants with a four-year degree in Early Childhood,” Maiocco said. “Positions include early childhood educators, childcare center directors and program administrators.”

The new program combines theory and practice for students seeking careers working with children from infancy to 5 years of age. It also has an emphasis on developing entrepreneurial skills.

“The recent focus on economic development and employment growth in New York will mean an increased demand for high-quality childcare options for working families,” Maiocco said. “The BBA in Early Childhood Care and Management will enhance the childcare workforce, and enrich the quality of care for young children and families.”

SUNY Canton Early Childhood major Alaijah Grant plays with Carson Rouse in the college’s Early Childhood Undergraduate Teacher Center. SUNY Canton has just unveiled a new four-year degree in Early Childhood Care and Management.

The new bachelor’s degree will be offered in traditional face-to-face settings and through online courses. Enrollment will begin in Fall 2018 and include freshmen, transfer, and SUNY Canton graduates. Childcare professionals can continue their education through SUNY Canton OnLine without interrupting their established careers.

“SUNY Canton’s mission is to provide a progression of applied programs that will enable students to achieve their highest potential personally and professionally,” said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. “Our newest four-year degree program is the perfect example of our efforts. With its implementation, all of our most popular associate degree programs are complemented by related four-year degree options that will lead to good jobs and the opportunity to create their own businesses.”

The Early Childhood Care and Management program was recently approved by the New York State Education Department and the State University of New York. It is the fifth new degree approved in 2017.

Those interested can apply for admission into the four-year program immediately, with courses slated to begin for Fall 2018. For more information, or to inquire about the application process, contact the SUNY Canton Office of Admissions by phone, (315) 386-7123, or email admissions@canton.edu.