New program supports career growth and childcare workforce development
Valparaiso, IN – Ivy Tech Community College recently launched new Early Childhood Education Program at the Valparaiso Campus. At a time when the demand for qualified childcare professionals is rising—and communities are rethinking how to support working families—the Ivy Tech Community College Early Childhood Education program is positioning itself as both a workforce solution and a gateway to meaningful, purpose-driven careers.
“Learning starts at birth. Teaching starts here,” said Ahmad Nooraldeen, Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences & Education. That guiding philosophy anchors Ivy Tech’s Early Childhood Education (ECED) program, which focuses on preparing students to support children during their most formative years. The curriculum blends theory with hands-on practice, emphasizing how children grow physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively—and how educators can nurture that development through intentional, responsive care.
Unlike programs that lean heavily on lecture-based instruction, Ivy Tech prioritizes experiential learning. Students design lesson plans, engage in classroom simulations, and participate in real-world settings—from childcare centers to community-based programs—where they work directly with infants, toddlers, and young children.
One of the program’s defining features is its “stackable credential” model. Students can enter at multiple points and build their qualifications over time:
- Short-term certificates (as little as one semester) for quick entry into the workforce
- Technical certificates that deepen skills over one year
- Associate degrees (AAS or AS) completed in about two years
The Associate of Science track is built for transfer, allowing graduates to continue seamlessly into a bachelor’s program—often entering as juniors through statewide articulation agreements.
“The program is explicitly career-focused. Graduates can pursue roles such as assistant teacher, childcare provider, Head Start teacher, or even childcare center director,” said Patti Shields, Vice Chancellor of Ivy+ Career Link.
With a median salary of around $40,000 in Indiana for related roles, the field offers stable employment opportunities, particularly as demand for early childhood educators continues to grow.
Beyond job placement, Ivy Tech is also investing in long-term workforce development. A recently registered apprenticeship program with the U.S. Department of Labor allows current childcare professionals to earn credentials while working—supporting both career advancement and talent retention in the field.
Quality assurance is another cornerstone. Many Ivy Tech ECED programs are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a leading authority in early childhood education standards.
This accreditation signals that the program meets rigorous benchmarks for preparing educators who can deliver high-quality learning experiences for children from birth through age eight.
With availability across more than 19 campuses—including in Valparaiso—the program is deeply embedded in communities across Indiana. This accessibility is key to addressing local childcare workforce shortages while giving students the option to study close to home.
Ultimately, Ivy Tech’s Early Childhood Education program is about more than credentials. It’s about preparing educators who understand that the earliest years of life shape everything that follows. By combining accessibility, affordability, and real-world training, the program offers a practical pathway into a field that is both urgently needed and profoundly impactful.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns to the needs of the community. The College provides seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a Bachelor’s degree. Follow Ivy Tech on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the most up-to-date information.
